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“I Get to Love You”
-Lyndsey Elm
CHAPTER ONE
PIPER
This evening, my sister Kendall married the love of her life, Ryan St. James. The ceremony was gorgeous, and their sweet vows reminded me of how painfully single I am. When they finally kissed, tears trailed down my cheeks, but there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
After posing for the photographer, the wedding party’s escorted to the reception hall that’s filled with guests. My parents, who are considered Manhattan royalty, invited their elite friends and business acquaintances. Ryan’s family are in the same circle, so anyone who’s anybody is in attendance tonight. It’s one of the many reasons it looks like the secret service is guarding the place.
I smooth my hand across the silk of my bridesmaid dress after I grab a glass of champagne. My sister’s best friend Cami, who’s also Ryan’s sister, waits in line behind me with her husband, Eli.
“Wasn’t the wedding beautiful?” Cami says before I walk away with my glass. She’s always been so sweet to me.
“Yes, it’s exactly how Kendall always dreamed. Lavish and perfect. Hey, Eli!”
He grins at me, but before we can chat any longer, they’re both dragged away by Mrs. St. James. I’m ready to take off these heels and walk around barefoot, but I ignore the pain. Eventually, Kendall and Ryan enter, and I try to scream the loudest for them. The smile on my sister’s face is contagious, and I love how happy she is dancing with her new hubby. I order another glass of champagne, then stand off to the side and watch as they’re swarmed by people wanting to personally congratulate them.
When I look over my shoulder, I see Tristan, my bodyguard, acting as my shadow while his eyes scan over the crowd. Him always being close is not something I’ve gotten used to over the past six months. I’m not sure if I ever will.
My parents found it necessary because of who I am—a Montgomery— and because I’m an influential lifestyle vlogger. I’ve tried to explain parasocial relationships with my mother several times and how it’s natural and normal, but she doesn’t listen or understand. With over twenty million subscribers to my channel, I’m bound to have crazy people stalk me, but lately, it’s gone to a level that even I’m not comfortable with. It’s the only reason I agreed to have protection with me. Tristan takes his job very seriously. Almost too much.
Since last year, I’ve been receiving death threats and disgusting email love letters from this guy named Jack, something I’ve mostly kept to myself. If I pretend it’s not happening, I can almost convince myself everything is normal. So that’s what I do.
The reception hall is gorgeous with crystal chandeliers and candlelight. As dinner is served, I sit with my parents in the front. My mother has been giddy ever since Kendall told her she was engaged, but right now, I think she’s just tipsy. The lobster and scallions nearly melt in my mouth, and I have to stop myself from getting seconds. After dinner, the speeches happen, and the dancing commences.
Once Kendall and Ryan are finally alone, I take my opportunity to bombard them. As soon as I’m close, I squeeze them as tight as I can.
“Everything has been perfect,” I say, adoring how great they are together. “Look at you two. Gah, I can’t wait to find love like this.”
My sister snorts. “It wasn’t all butterflies and rainbows, but it was worth it.”
I think back to everything they went through to get here. Ryan and Kendall were sent to stock up and decorate the St. James’ cabin for her best friend, Cami. The next thing they knew, a freak blizzard blew in, and they were stranded together until the roads were cleared. She’s told me how magical the whole experience was, and honestly, it sounds like the plot of a Hallmark movie. With lots of sex between.
Ryan looks over my shoulder. “Who’s that?”
I turn to see who he’s referring to. “Oh him? It’s my bodyguard, Tristan,” I explain, keeping the details to myself of why I have a security detail. Kendall knows the basics, but I didn’t tell her everything either. She worries enough about me already. The paparazzi and gossip news sites haven't done me any favors over the years. Having a bodyguard again reminds me of high school and how we had a security team anytime we left the house. Once I graduated, I told my dad I could handle myself, but since the threats began, Dad insisted on hiring someone. I didn’t argue, though I’ve been wondering how long he’ll make me have one—forever, if it were up to him.
“She’s kinda a big deal,” Kendall tells him with a laugh. “My famous sister.”
“Famous? Pfft.” I quickly change the subject because today isn’t about me. “Before I forget, I think we should have a celebration shot! What would you two like?”
