Page 63 of Searching for Love

He could also have Rico or Yolanda bring anything else that was needed.

He helped her cart everything in, including a large box of carefully wrapped gifts that were tucked into soft teal bags. She’d told him they were for the bridesmaids and groomsmen.

With Avery’s help, he’d picked out a unique gift for the couple at Ruby’s the last time they’d been there. The gold-plated mirror was antique and elegant style was something he could see Hannah and Wyatt enjoying. Avery had helped him secure it in a box and wrap it in soft blue wrapping paper with little bells on it.

Since he hadn’t known what to say on the card, he’d just signed his name. He had strict orders to deliver the mirror to the present table, which would be set opposite the cake table, shortly before the wedding, which was to be held out on the beach just outside of the barn venue. Until then, the mirror sat securely in the back seat of his truck.

After helping Avery carry in the last load of her things, he glanced down at his watch and was surprised that it was a quarter to eleven already.

He kissed her goodbye and left her to start hauling his things inside while she went to get ready with the rest of her friends, whom he’d seen arrive shortly after they’d gotten there.

Hannah wasn’t in that group, but he figured she was already inside somewhere.

Taking the first load of things he’d need, Lucas disappeared into the kitchen, ready to get to work. An hour later, he was helping Rico carry in the rest of the supplies.

For the next few hours, his main focus was food. He glanced up once to chat with his cousin Kara, who informed him that Robin was in labor and on her way to the hospital.

“I think she just wanted to get out of a day of work,” Kara joked. “I’m going to head there as soon as I have word she’s fully dilated.”

“Keep me posted.” He moved out of the way of one of his staff.

“I’ll get out of the way. I just wanted you to know.” Kara laughed. “I’m going to be an aunt finally.”

After that, he went and changed into his official chef outfit. This one was for show since Hannah and Wyatt had requested that he make a few appearances throughout the evening, and he wanted to look his best. He’d purchased the black pants and chef coat specifically for the event and the opening of his place. He had purchased each of his kitchen staff their own embroidered shirts with the restaurant’s name and their name on it for opening day.

“Keep an eye on the time,” he called to his staff.

“Yes, chef,” they replied.

He got a sense of pride just hearing that. He’d hired the best and the proof was in each dish they completed.

Less than an hour before the wedding, Avery stepped inside the door.

Seeing her in the soft teal bridesmaid dress stopped his heart. Without realizing it, he moved over towards her.

“You look…” He blinked a few times and swallowed the knot in his throat.

“I’ll take your silence as a compliment.” She smiled up at him.

“It is.” He nodded profusely.

“I like your outfit too.” She ran a finger over the black buttons on his shirt.

“Thanks.” He glanced at the door. “You shouldn’t be in here. You could get something on your dress.”

“I just wanted to come in and see you. To tell you…” She lifted her arms over his shoulders. “I’ll be thinking of you.”

He smiled. His hands itched to grab her, but he was afraid he’d get her dress dirty. Instead, he balled them by his sides.

“I wish I could watch the wedding.” He motioned with his head. “Lots to do still.”

She nodded. “You are going to knock everyone’s socks off with whatever smells so good in here.” She groaned. “We should have eaten more than just toast and juice.”

“Oh.” He held up his hand. “I have something for that.” He walked over and picked up a basket. “I made these for you, just in case you stopped by. There is extra in case you want to share.” He handed her a basket. “They’re conchas, also known as Mexican pan dulce. It’s a sweet bread, sort of like a streusel pastry.” They were perfect since there would be no mess to drop onto anyone’s dress.

“These are perfect,” Avery said after taking a bite. “The other girls were complaining of being hungry. I’m going to go share them now.” She lifted on her toes and kissed him. “Thank you.”

He nodded. “I’ll see you for dinner.”

She smiled and called back. “Love you.”

“So…” Rico suddenly appeared by his side and slapped him on the shoulder. Hard. “You’ve moved into the love phase.”

Lucas chuckled and told the man to get back to work.