“Because, like you said, I’ve sampled the goods, and now that I have, I want more.” As in, I want it all.
Jackson smirks. “Well, looks like your competition is growing. Lily just brought another guy over to introduce her to. Good luck, buddy.” He pats me on the back and walks off.
Fuck. Maybe he’s right, and I should set my sights on another woman for the night. Though the problem as I study the room, is that I’ve already found what I’m looking for. Decision made—I’m not giving up until I have her.
Shit keeps interfering though. As I’m about to force myself into her orbit, the classic clinking of the wine glass signals it’s time for toasts. With two nuptials, four of the wedding party, and the parents are making speeches. We agreed to keep them to a minimum with the number of people, but this is unfortunately prolonging my objective.
Parents go first, followed by Sebastian, Eli’s best man, then Lily, Cici’s maid of honor. Lily includes some humor, while Sebastian is completely serious. Walker is next as Mia’s… best man, which leaves me, Jackson’s best man. With Walker’s ability to bring everyone to tears with laughter, he’s a hard act to follow. Luckily, I’m used to speaking in front of people in the courtroom, so my confidence is natural as I take the microphone.
“This is a bit out of my wheelhouse, since typically I’m talking about why two people should be divorcing, not tying the knot, but I’m gonna give it my best shot. I’m here as Jackson’s best man, but as I’m familiar with both couples, let me tell you, they had a heck of a time getting here. The fact that they’ve made it is a testament to how much they belong together.”
“I first met Mia at a poker game. She was actually the shark who took me out. Jackson and Mia weren’t together yet… okay, they basically couldn’t stand each other. But even then, I saw something in Jackson’s eyes that was inevitable—the game wasn’t the only thing I lost that night—I lost my wingman. I’m still crying over both losses, but Mia, the joy you bring to Jackson far outweighs either one.”
I turn my attention to the other couple. “And to Eli and Cici, I justwant to remind you that Cici was into me first, so you’re welcome for getting blackout drunk the night you met. Otherwise, you wouldn’t have stood a chance.” I wink in their direction. “Here’s to the happy couples and to me, for being the last bachelor standing. Cheers.” I raise my glass as everyone follows.
When the MC immediately announces it’s time for the first dance, I groan at having to wait even longer to snag my sexy librarian away. Unless…
6
ONE TIME
Poppy
Having Matt here has been a relief. It’s not only saved me from any more encounters with Suits, but it’s been nice having another familiar face around. Also, he was the perfect distraction after Braden’s final words before walking away. Fricking A, how am I supposed to stop thinking about that kiss?
The subtle extra touches he snuck in throughout pictures didn’t help. Whenever we were near enough, he would take the liberty of placing his hand on my back to guide me. And when we were next to each other for a photo, he wouldn’t only have his arm around me but gently caress my skin with his thumb, causing flutters of desire.
Talk about sexual tension. Ugh. I’m not even interested in the guy. Okay, thatcouldbe a lie. But sometimes a lie is the truth you want to believe. And I’m trying desperately to believe it. The truth? I’m so insanely turned on by his advances and dirty words that I’m fairly certain I’ve been damp since walking down the aisle.
Lily brought Jordan over and introduced us, but we only had a moment to chat before the toasts began. He was sweet, offering torefill my champagne while I listened to everyone, and he’s definitely easy on the eyes. It would be a great match if some other guy wasn’t taking up all the space in my head. Consequently, I ended up comparing their features, musing over who had more appeal.
To make matters worse, Braden kept staring at me during the other speeches. I tried not to make eye contact, but it was too tempting to keep peeking, wondering if he was still looking at me. He was… every single time. He winked at one point, and heat rose to my cheeks.
Then he made his speech, and I was mesmerized. Not just the speech itself, but his voice, the confidence, and most of all, his charisma. I’m sure all the women in attendance were smitten by the time he was finished.
Now the four newlyweds are taking their first dance. After watching for a few minutes, Jordan resumes our conversation.
“You said you’re leaving tomorrow and coming back after the baby’s born?” he asks to kick us off.
“Yeah, I can’t wait. I was there every step of the way until she moved.”
“Nice. And are you staying here tonight?” Jordan asks, sounding hopeful.
“I am. I’m sharing a room with a friend who flew in today. That’s Matt over there.” I point in his direction.
He’s been flirting with one of Cici’s college girlfriends since Jordan was brought over and he took the opportunity to leave me. I’d been insisting he stay by my side all evening, fearing what would happen if he left me alone. The alcohol is weakening my resolve, and that damn kiss has me wanting things I shouldn’t.
“Are you two together, together?” he asks, raising his brows.
“No. Just friends.” I can tell Jordan’s relieved at the answer.
“Well, in that case, may I have this dance?” He bows slightly, making me giggle—the champagne effect.
“Sure.” Setting my glass down, I place my hand in his, and he leads me to the floor.
I catch sight of Cici and Lily beaming conspiratorially. Little dothey know, I may be with Jordan, but my mind is elsewhere. Seconds later, however, the dance takes over any thoughts as Jordan leads me into a full-blown formal number.
“Uhm, wow. You really know what you’re doing.”
