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Existing next to Conner even for a few minutes is similar to being onstage. His name bounces off the walls in a hundred different voices. This level of attention would destroy my sanity in less than a day.
“Ourtable? We’re sitting at the same table?”
Dumb question. It would make sense to seat the wedding party together. But he’s sure to get distracted once we’ve moved to a different setting.
“Sure. Dates always sit together.”
“So where is she? Yourdate?”
I’m mortified that a hint of jealousy has crept into my tone. I’m not actually jealous. Honestly, I’m counting the seconds until Conner becomes someone else’s high maintenance problem. Yet as I scan the surrounding faces in search of a likely candidate that would fit the title of Conner’s Date, there’s a sour taste in my mouth.
Conner turns his head. He throws down a charming smile that shouldn’t make my breath stutter and my insides turn to jelly. “You know you’re my date, Haven.”
I can’t come up with a single reply. Conner confidently shepherds me to an empty table. When Dani and Gage join us, I’m surprised when Dani chooses the seat beside mine after only a tiny hesitation.
Now that the ceremony is over, unease twists in my gut. I drown it by chugging my full champagne glass. I’m not anxious about being surrounded by people. I’m surrounded by people every goddamn day. But in my own environment I have no filter. Right now I need to have a filter.
“Do you like prime rib?” Dani asks, leaning closer and making a clear effort to invent small talk. “There’s a stuffed chicken option too.”
“Both sound great.” I unfold my napkin and force my tone to sound pleasant. Friendly. Kudos to me for not dropping a single curse word. I ought to be grateful that Dani is going out of her way to speak to me. God knows I’ve done nothing to earn her goodwill over the years.
Suddenly she laughs, pointing out that Conner has successfully kidnapped the best man from his parents. With the baby on his shoulder, Conner drops down into the seat on my other side. Dash’s wide eyes study me from inches away. He gives me a gummy smile. I smile back and the knots in my belly loosen a little.
“Want to hold him?” The question is hardly out of Conner’s mouth before he’s transferring Dash to my arms.
I don’t have much experience holding babies. The last baby I held was my little brother. He’s twelve now.
Dash babbles as my arms circle his warm little body. One small fist curls around a section of my long hair and he snuggles against my shoulder. Without thinking, I press my cheek to his and shut my eyes, inhaling his clean baby scent. When I open them, I find Conner leaning back in his chair, arms crossed, a wide grin on his face.
Tess is so delighted at the sight that she rushes right over. “Aw, did you make a new friend, little one?”
Dash’s head jerks up at the sound of her voice. His chubby hand releases my hair and he lunges for his mother. Tess scoops him up with a laugh.
“Congratulations,” I tell the bride. “I’m so happy for you, Tessie.”
She props Dash on her hip, leaning down to give me a hug with her free arm. “And I’m so glad you’re here.”
We do share a long history, all of us.
When I think of that, I think of West Emerald Prep.
Then I watch as Micah swings an arm around his bride’s waist and I think about how funny it is that stories can have such unexpected endings.
Finally, I think of my sister and my heart contracts. Lita would have loved to see this.
Dani might be able to read my mind. She stands and raises a champagne glass. “Let’s all have a drink together in honor of Lita.”
I’ve already drained my champagne glass but a hardworking waiter stops by with a tray of flutes. I pluck one with a murmured word of thanks.
“To Lita.” Conner lifts his glass.
“To Lita.” I swallow my drink and sigh.
Then I notice that Conner is staring at me with a thoughtful expression. I wish he’d stop.
As soon as plates of food are delivered, I remember that I haven’t eaten all day. I’m the first at the table to finish devouring my meal but once my plate is clear I have no excuse for not joining the conversation.
Beside me, Conner never stops talking. I don’t know how the hell he was able to finish his prime rib in between the constant chatter. It’s kind of fascinating.
