“He let me borrow it again.” I glanced at my bouquet and smiled at the memory of Lucas as just a friend. He was always so sweet and thoughtful.
“Lucas is so much like our dad was. Dad always seemed bigger than life—at least to me. He’d walk into a room and own it, no matter who was there. Everyone loved him and wanted to be his friend. He was funny and brilliant and had the biggest heart. I saw the way Lucas looked at you that day. I knew he loved you. I was afraid you’d get back with your ex-husband, and Lucas would never get over it. I was awful to you last summer. I’m really sorry.”
“It’s okay. You were watching out for Lucas. I understand. Lucas is lucky to have a sister like you.”
Jessica groaned and dropped her head in her hands.
“Please don’t be so nice about it. It’s making me feel worse.” I chuckled and was happy that Jessica and I could wipe the slate clean. I’d hate to be the cause for a rift between Lucas and his only sister.
“Go outside and tell Lucas you apologized and everything is fine. I was never really upset with you; he was bothered more than I was. He’s a little overprotective of me in case you couldn’t tell.” I gave her a warm smile that I was surprised to see her return. “I guess I walk in soon?” Jessica nodded at me and stood up off the couch.
“Daina will let you know, I’m sure. Thanks, Samantha.” As Jessica backed out the door, I realized that was as close to warm and fuzzy as she would ever get.
Not even five minutes after she left, I heard my phone buzz in my purse.
Lucas: Did she apologize?
Me: Yes, I told her to tell you everything is fine. Also, are you crazy? These earrings are too much.
Lucas: I’m crazy about you. You didn’t think my dad’s necklace was your only gift did you? Today is only the first day I’m going to show you what it means to be spoiled rotten. My girl gets only the best.
Me: I way under-gifted. I only got you a Lego Superman.
Lucas: I have you. That’s the best gift in the world.
Even texts from Lucas made me melt.
Me: I don’t want you to think I’m after your money after seeing you throwing it around today. Still only in it for the sex.
Lucas: I can understand that. The sex is pretty fucking incredible.
Me: It sure is ;) I’ll see you soon. I love you.
Lucas: You bet you will. I love you, too.
Daina burst in and shut the door.
“God, the two of you are nauseating. Lucas is texting you outside with the same dopey grin on his face. You have ten minutes, doll.”
“I’ll sit in the front and hold your bouquet and the ring when you get up there. Bella has a basket of rose petals she’ll drop before you come down the aisle. You ready?”
I laughed at my feisty best friend. My heart swelled at all she’s done for me over the years—and for us. We needed someone to yell at us to “stop being an ass” a few times.
“You and I are family today.” I smiled at Daina as she shook her head.
“We’ve always been family. Today’s just more of a formality like you said—an extravagant and flashy formality.” She gave me a big hug, and I whispered, “Thank you for everything.”
Daina grabbed my shoulders and pushed away.
“Try to make it at least partially through the vows without ruining all my hard work. Let me make sure everything is all set before you go outside.”
Daina rushed out the door. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes.
It was time to start the rest of my life.
Thirty-Seven
Samantha
