Page 65 of Searching for Love

“Elle?” Hannah gasped. “You’re freaking famous.”

Elle laughed. The woman was a young prodigy who could quickly and very accurately paint any scene. Some of her artwork rivaled that of Pride’s very own Allison Jordan. Allison had been Avery’s foot in the door. Elle had jumped at the chance to do the wedding after Avery had hinted that Allison and her family would be in attendance. Of course, her bill was something Avery would need to work extra hours to pay off.

“I love it.” Hannah hugged Elle and then turned to Avery. “It’s perfect.”

“This is amazing, sis.” Wyatt hugged her. “It’s going to hang over our fireplace for the rest of our lives.”

“Good. That’s where it belongs. Now, head on inside. Your guests are waiting to eat all that amazing food my boyfriend has made for you.”

Hannah chuckled and then Avery stood back as the happy couple walked around the corner to cheers from all of the guests.

“Thank you.” Avery hugged Elle. “It’s even more perfect than I could have imagined.”

“This was such an amazing wedding. I’ve fallen in love with your little town,” Elle said. “I may have to come back more often. The B and B you put me up in is amazing. I’ve arranged to stay a few more days so I can paint each colorful cabin.”

“You won’t be the first,” she joked. “Allison is inside. Would you like me to introduce you?”

“I’ve already met her. When she came in with her husband, gosh, I about had a heart attack. Then she saw my painting and we chatted for the longest time. She wants me to sit at their table with them.”

When they stepped into the main room, everyone clapped at Elle’s amazing artwork, so Avery slipped to the side to go find Lucas. To her surprise, he was walking around the room chatting with people.

“Hey,” he said, smiling when he saw her. “How did everything go?”

“Perfectly.” She sighed and wrapped her arms around him. “Did you get a chance to see my gift?”

“I did.” He kissed her. “She’s very talented. I had a chance to talk to her about doing something for our place before she leaves town.”

“Really?” Avery grew excited. Why hadn’t she thought of that?

Just then, Parker interrupted them and Lucas had to go chat with someone he wanted to introduce him to. Avery made her way to her brother’s side.

Wyatt wrapped his arm around her shoulders as he talked to Reece.

“Happy?” she asked when the conversation was over.

“Very.” Her brother kissed her cheek. He nodded towards Lucas. “He’s a hit before they even bring out the main course.”

She laughed. “I have a feeling we’re going to be very busy come Tuesday.”

“I wish we were going to be here for your big day,” Wyatt said with a grin.

“Hawaii is going to be much better,” she said with a laugh. “When you get back, I’ll treat you to some tacos and margaritas.”

“Deal,” Wyatt said and then dropped his hold on her to shake Ryder’s hand.

She stood and listened to the men chat for a moment before Ryder asked her. “Is Lucas around? I have some news from George.”

“Where is he?” Wyatt asked as he glanced around.

Ryder chuckled. “His wife decided that your wedding day was a perfect birthday as well.”

“What?” they both said together.

“They’re all at the hospital right now. But George wanted me to give Lucas some important news.”

“He’s…” She glanced around. “Probably back in the kitchen. I’ll walk with you to the back.” She led Ryder towards the kitchen. “What’s the news?”

Ryder sighed. “George said that Lucas wouldn’t mind if you know, so I’ll tell you. They’ve revoked his father’s bail.”