Laci’s lucky she’s my best friend or else I’d kill her. Looking at my reflection in the mirror, I adjust the top of my dress for the tenth time. My boobs are practically popping out of the form-fitting gown she chose for her bridesmaid’s dress.
“I’m going to get you back for this,” I mutter under my breath.
“What was that, Stella Bella?” Laci practically sings.
“Eight weeks after you have your first child, I’m having a formal party and you’re wearing this exact dress.”
“You look beautiful, Stella, what are you worried about?”
I don’t say anything but point to my chest.
“Oh please!” She reaches over and pinches one.
“Don’t do that! I’m doubled up on pads. If you touch them, they’re likely to leak,” I shout and Laci’s mom starts laughing.
We giggle along with her but all laughter stops when Laci steps into her dress and the room goes still.
“You are stunning. The most beautiful bride I’ve ever seen.” My voice cracks as I blink back tears.
“Funny, that’s what I thought about you,” her voice equally strained. We stare at each other for a few seconds allowing the enormity of how much has changed for us.
“Girls! No crying, you’ll ruin your make up,” Mrs. Barnes scolds us, but her eyes shine.
“You have family pictures.” I point out.
“Remember the schedule, you have ten minutes then join us.”
I nod and blow her a kiss as she follows her mother out.
Max walks in and whistles when he sees me. “How long do we have to stay at this shindig?”
“All night, you know this already.”
“Yes, but that was before I saw what you looked like in that dress. Now I feel the need to get you naked.” He nuzzles my neck and bites down gently, then kisses the sting.
I lean into his body and soak in his embrace. “Where’s Drew?”
“When I left him, your mom had staked claim, but Landon was working on her. I figure he’ll annoy her to death until she hands the baby over.”
“Highly doubtful.”
“You okay today?”
“Of course, why wouldn’t I be?”
“Maybe because your best friend is getting the wedding of her dreams. Your selfish, needy, and completely in love husband robbed you of that because I couldn’t wait.”
“The party was enough, Max, I didn’t need a big wedding. Ours was perfect. Even you can make the JP elegant. I’m actually fine, Laci looks incredible and she’s so happy.”
“Jake’s pretty stoked too. Never really seen him this excited.”
“We’re very lucky, Max. Sometimes I want to pinch myself to see if this is all real.”
“I’ll do the pinching.” He slides his hand down and grabs my ass possessively. “But no doubt this is real.”
“I don’t want to ruin today but tell me what the phone call this morning was about.”
“Edward’s getting out of jail. They’re moving him to a medical facility with hospice on staff. His heart disease has taken a turn and they think he won’t live much longer.”