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I smile. I’m not sure what to say. How does a fake fiancée respond to that question?
The truth is I don’t know how to act. I’ve never been in love. I haven’t had time to date while getting my degree. Between my classes, studying, and internship, I barely have time to sleep.
Kennedy continues, a smile playing on his lips. “I have noticed a shift in him since he started coming to therapy. He’s… gentler. I believe he has you to thank for that.”
Me? I'm still speechless.
I’m saved from the conversation when a man at the counter announces the gift is ready.
Thank goodness.
Chapter eleven
Brinn
Kennedy navigates quickly back to the port. When we arrive, Jackson is pacing back and forth. He brings his phone down from his ear, tucking it in his pocket. His body tenses in frustration.
I jump out of the car when it rolls to a stop, not waiting for Kennedy’s assistance. I’m anxious to get to Jackson. I touch his back, and he turns around. “Where did you go?”
“We didn’t have a gift, so I went to get one.” I hold up the bag for him to see, waving it back and forth.
“You really are the best.” He wraps his arms around me, pulling me so close I feel his heartbeat. I know people could be watching, so I make sure to return his embrace. His body instantly relaxes.
Maybe I do have a good effect on him.
We untangle. “Who were you talking to?”
“No one. My parents aren’t answering. I’m not sure how we’re going to get in.”
A moment later, Trevor is jogging our way, a cunning smirk on his face. "Hey guys, how’s it going?"
Jackson scowls at him. “Brinn’s name isn’t on the list. You know anything about that?”
"Oh, my.” He feigns sincerity, very badly. “Please forgive me, it must have been an oversight on my part. Didn’t think you’d actually still be together at this point.” He chortles, clearly pleased with himself.
He condescendingly pats Jackson on the back. “Come on, cousin. Let’s get this cleared up.” Jackson quickly removes Trevor’s hand from his body.
We follow Trevor back up the ramp. He gestures to us when we reach the woman with the list. “This lovely couple is with me.” Jackson grabs my hand. He’s crushing my fingers a little, but I tough it out to keep him from punching Trevor.
This yacht is a floating masterpiece. I never knew they were this big on the inside. You could fit a hundred people in here. The stateroom is decorated in muted tones with gleaming wood accents.
Waiters in white gloves serve appetizers on silver platters to the guests. At the center of the room, a captivating display steals the spotlight-the fanciest of cupcake towers. It’s a masterpiece. Delicate swirls of pastel blue and pinks crown each cake like tiny works of art.
Trevor grabs a cupcake and shovels it into his mouth in one bite, leaving a smear of blue frosting on his face. Jackson and I share a look of silent agreement. Neither of us is going to tell him it’s there.
He grabs a drink off a waiter’s tray and takes a large gup. Without a thank you, he heads up the stairs to the deck. I don’t know how this family deals with him on a daily basis. He has no manners at all, no concern for others.
The deck is crowded with people in a vast array of clothing. Some men are wearing polo shirts and shorts, women in sun dresses like mine. But others are wearing suits and cocktail dresses. I guess there was no memo about a dress code. I’m just thankful I don’t stand out.
Along the railing, I spot Jackson’s parents. They're laughing with a couple near their age, his father clearly telling a funny story.
I love that they always look so friendly, so approachable. Their attention turns to us when they notice our arrival. “Jackson! Brinn! So good to see you both!” Their greetings are always so boisterous, but it’s nice to feel loved by them. Mrs. Reed envelops me instantly, just like the first time we met.
Everyone's attention turns in our direction. Jackson watches as heads gaze our way with a calm look in his eyes. He shares a few curt nods and handshakes with those closest to us. I will never get used to being a focal point every time I walk into the room.
"This is Brinn, Jackson's fiancée. Isn’t she lovely?” Mrs. Reed introduces me to her friends. “I’ve been telling them all about your whirlwind romance.” She giggles in delight.
The couple is gracious and kind. The man gently takes my hand and kisses the top of it. The woman gives me air kisses on both sides of my cheeks. There’s always so much warmth in the air around Jackson’s family and friends. I find myself starting to enjoy it.
