Gavin’s dad yells a loudGesundheit!from somewhere in the crowd.
Haddy’s future husband shakes his head. “No help there.”
Kim slaps her hand on Haddy’s shoulder. “I hope he realizes he’s officially in the group.” The dancing continues. “Welcome to the family, Gavin Knight!”
12
OWEN
Newhope is a lot like Eureka, only without all the kooky magicians and mediums… all of whom are related to me.
Still, it’s been a long time since I laughed so hard in one weekend. I can’t get over how well everyone gets along, down to the dogs. I’m chalking it up to the happy vibes around the wedding and not my sister’s premonitions and pointed looks.
It’s been a nonstop whirlwind of activity since we stepped off the small plane Mav and Gav chartered for Newhope. Again, I offered to pitch in, but they waved me away. I’m not sure when I’ll stop being a guest and start being one of the team.
Gigi is still avoiding me, and it’s making me itchy and uncomfortable being here with her family, even as a guest.
I wanted to talk to her on the flight, but she stayed in the back of the plane the entire time with her headphones on, claiming she was working on wedding prep.
Every time I’d glance back, her brows were furrowed over her pretty green eyes, her full lips were pursed, and her fingers twisted in the side of her hair. It sent an unwelcome longing through my stomach, remembering threading my fingers in her hair, pressing my thumb against her bottom lip as I pulled it down to kiss her.
Then, as soon as we landed, the women were swept away in one direction while the men, including me, were swept in another.
I didn’t expect to be in Gavin’s wedding party, but he insisted. Considering all I have to do is wear the clothes they give me, stand where I’m told, and have all the free food and drinks I want, I could hardly say no.
Heather, Maddie, and I are also staying in a luxurious guest cottage on the grounds of an Italian-style estate overlooking the waters of Sterling Bay. It’s freaking gorgeous and complete with a welcome basket and continental breakfast, which has my daughter utterly delighted.
She doesn’t get to eat donuts every day for breakfast at home, but it’s a special occasion, I guess.
Our host is a sweet old blind lady, who took my hand as soon as we arrived, smiled up at me, and said I felt like family to her.
It was more magic and premonitions and things I don’t buy into, but it was a kind gesture. I simply patted her hand and thanked her for her hospitality.
The next morning, I was whisked away to take care of all the guy stuff, which included fittings and a bachelor party with all of Haddy and Gavin’s male relatives.
I thought the Stone family was big. This is like a mob scene.
Heather and Maddie are thrilled to be spending time with the female Bradfords, and except for baby Lucy, mydaughter is the only “little” here, which means she’s the designated flower girl.
Haddy has no idea how happy this makes my daughter, and I want to let her know how much I appreciate it. Moving her away from our family in Eureka for the first time in her life has put me on edge.
She’s only ever known our small town, surrounded by people who all know her and love her. Los Angeles is going to be a big adjustment, even with Heather and me there.
It’s made it difficult for me to think past her comfort and mental well-being.
Falling in with the Bradfords has been a help I never expected. Someone said it’s because Maverick is just like his mom. I don’t know what that means, but at least my daughter has a safe place to land.
Hell, I really need to find a house in the neighborhood when we get back—for her as well as Ladybird. She and Spanky are clearly doggy-soulmates. Who are currently back in their cage at Miss Gina’s mansion, happy as peas in a pod.
The rest of us are congregated around a large pier with a flower-covered arch, filmy curtains, and a small audience of mostly family.
“You ready?” Mav’s cousin Knox walks up and pats my back. “Last-minute change. You’re walking with Gina.”
Energy surges in my chest, and I frown up at him. “I thought Gina was walking with…”
“Austin can’t make it, so Maverick is helping as an usher. I’m walking with Kim, and you’re taking Gina. Everything else is the same.”
“Okay.” I nod, thinking it’s a little more than just a last-minute change.
