“Why would you say that?”
“Because he’s Ryan Steel. The most gorgeous man on the planet.”
Melanie laughed. “I might beg to differ. Let’s say second-most gorgeous.”
I couldn’t help a smile. Melanie was so in love. It was sweet.
Something I’d never experience.
Wouldn’t let myself experience.
She continued, “You’re as gorgeous as he is, Ruby. No matter how much you try to cover it up.”
I warmed.
“Don’t let what happened to you color your whole life.”
“I’m not one of your patients, Melanie.”
“I’m saying that as a friend. You’re scared of men. It’s obvious.”
“Tomorrow is your wedding day. You should be having fun, not giving impromptu therapy to your maid of honor.”
“We’re all in this together,” Melanie said.
“I know. But the Steels and you have been through enough. I’m sorry to be such a downer. Feel like getting out on the dance floor with Jade and Marjorie?”
She smiled. “No, not really. I’m a little nauseated. Morning sickness and all. Turns out it’s evening sickness as well.”
“Okay. I’m sorry you’re not feeling good.”
“I’m not. The reason is great.” She smiled.
Jade and Marjorie walked toward our table, both perspiring from dancing.
“I’m heading to the bathroom. Too much rum punch,” Jade said.
Melanie stood. “I’ll go with you. Seems my bladder fills up more quickly than usual since I’ve become pregnant.”
That left me at the table with Marjorie. We weren’t exactly strangers. I was wearing her clothes, after all. Still, I wasn’t sure what to say to her.
Luckily, she didn’t have that problem.
“Wow. I’m beat.” She gestured to a server. “Could I get some water, please?”
I shoved my glass toward her. “Here. Have some of mine while you wait.”
“Thanks. You’re a lifesaver.” She picked up my glass and took a long drink before setting it back down. “I never thought I’d say this, but I’m sick to death of rum punch. How come you’re not out there dancing? You look hot.”
Hot? I doubted that adjective described me, except that it was a balmy night and I felt a little hot.
“Must be the clothes.” I smiled.
“Are you kidding? I don’t look as good as you do in them. I’d kill for that body.”
“You have a great body. I wish I were taller.”
“Eh. It’s nice sometimes, but try finding a pair of pants that doesn’t turn into capris after one washing. What I’d really like is to tone up, look more like you.”