Page 21 of Claimed By The Other Brother

I look polished, put-together, exactly like a bride should look the night before her wedding.

"It's perfect. Thank you both."

"That's what we're here for." Jane squeezes my shoulder.

"Now shoes. The black heels?"

"Definitely the black heels."

Twenty minutes later, we're ready. I grab my clutch, check my reflection one more time, and we head out. The hired car is waiting downstairs to take us to Marcello's.

As we settle into the backseat, Jane reaches over and takes my hand.

"You okay?"

"I'm fine." I squeeze back.

"Just readyfor tomorrow to be here."

The lie tastes familiar on my tongue.

***

Marcello's is an upscale Italian restaurant tucked into a quiet street in the Gold Coast. The hostess leads us through the main dining room to a private space in the back—a beautiful room with exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and a long table set for about fifteen people.

Guests are already gathering. I spot my parents immediately. My mother is talking to the restaurant manager, no doubt complaining about something. My father stands beside her looking resigned.

"Scarlett!" Mom spots me and waves me over.

"There you are. I was just telling them that the table arrangement seems cramped. Do you think we'll all fit comfortably?"

"It looks fine, Mom." I kiss her cheek.

"Everything looks beautiful."

"If you say so." She smooths her dress, scanning the room.

"Where's Miles?"

"I'm sure he'll be here soon."

My father hugs me. "You look lovely, sweetheart. How are you holding up?"

"Good, Dad. Really good."

I make my way around the room, greeting relatives and friends. Miles's mother Barbara is near the bar, talking with one of Miles's groomsmen. She looks elegantin a champagne-colored dress, her dark hair styled perfectly.

"Scarlett, dear." She turns and embraces me warmly when I approach.

"You look absolutely beautiful."

"Thank you, Barbara. So do you." I've met her a handful of times over the past year—once when she visited Chicago, and when Miles and I flew to Florida for a weekend. She's always been kind, if a bit reserved.

"How was your flight this morning?"

"Smooth, thankfully. I'm staying at the Waldorf Astoria. The hotel is gorgeous." She takes a sip of her wine.

"I can't believe tomorrow is the big day. My baby is getting married."