“Hell, yeah.”
“Not concerned I’d say no?” Carly asked him.
He laughed. “Hell, no.”
“So cocky.” Her smile faltered. “I don’t have anything to wear.”
“What do you think is in those garment bags?” Desiree asked. “Let’s go try on some dresses.”
Carly kissed her fiancé. “This is the best surprise, ever.”
The two women retreated into the guest stateroom. One at a time, Desiree held up each of the cocktail dresses. Varying in color, they were as simple as they were elegant.
“They’re all fabulous,” Carly said. “Thank you so much for doing this for us.” She tried on a blush pink one and both of the white dresses. Despite the yellowish bruises on her neck, she loved the fit and feel of the white, off–the-shoulder mermaid dress with a delicate lace overlay. “This is absolutely beautiful. But the other white dress has a high neck, which hides my bruises. What do you think?”
With hands fastened on her hips, Desiree studied Carly. “Wear the dress of your heart.”
Carly examined herself in the mirror. “This is definitely the one.”
Desiree beamed. “I thought so, too. It’s like that dress was made for you.” She flipped open her makeup box. “I might be able to hide some of the bruising with make up.”
“That would be awesome.”
“How ‘bout an updo?”
“Do I need a tie?” Ashton called through the closed door.
“Of course,” Desiree replied. “It’s your wedding day.”
Forty minutes later, Carly was ready to go. She stared at her reflection in disbelief. “I look like a bride.”
“You’re stunning.”
“Thank you. You are the best sister.” Carly’s eyes misted.
“Oh, please no,” Desiree said. “You’ll smudge your eyes.”
Carly fanned her face. “Will you be my maid of honor?”
“I’d love to.” Desiree changed into a pale blue chiffon cocktail dress. Before leaving, Carly tucked her Glock into her handbag.
Desiree’s eyes grew large. “Whoa, what’s that for?”
She wished Desiree hadn’t seen her do that. “Just a precaution.”
“I thought the senator was behind bars.” Desiree put a comforting hand on Carly’s shoulder. “Are you okay?”
“Yes and no. I have a permit to carry and I’ll let security at the courthouse know. I feel better when I have it with me.”
“Well, let’s hope you never have to use it,” she said and cracked open the door. “Ash, are you there?”
“You two ready?” he asked.
“I’ll drive Carly. It’s bad luck to see your bride before the ceremony. You go ahead.”
“Oh, wait.” Carly pulled off Sarah Hott’s wedding band and Desiree passed it out the door.
“You two are funny,” Desiree said. “You’re going to put these back on in an hour.”
