“One does usually wear a special gown for their wedding.”
She hadn’t given it much thought.“You all have spoiled me.But I can’t wait to see it anyway.”And it would give her a chance to talk with Ella about nightgowns.
When Daisy was gone, Simon settled onto the sofa and patted the cushion next to him.He wanted to talk.That shouldn’t be a surprise.He was protective of her, and this was a big step.Especially after everything.
“So, marriage, huh?”
Samantha nodded.
“Are you sure he’s worthy of you?That he’s the right one?”
“To my mind, he’s worthy of so much better than me.But… we fell in love.”
“That I understand.When lightning strikes, there’s nothing you can do to stop it.”
“Is that how it was with Madelene?”
“Very much so.I didn’t feel worthy of her either.But love knows best.”His brow furrowed.“And perhaps even Ash.”He chuckled.“He seems to be a bit of a matchmaker.”
“You think he knew Trent and I would fall in love?”
Simon shrugged.“It’s impossible to read that man’s mind.But he’s certainly the reason Madelene and I are together, and from the stories I’ve heard, he’s also the reason Fitz and Patrick are with their wives.It wouldn’t be that much of a surprise, now that I know him.He seems to observe people and discern things the rest of us simply don’t see.”
“Well, whether it was his doing, or just happenstance, I am glad for it.Trent is a good man.”
Simon nodded with a heavy sigh.“I think he probably is.”
“He is, Simon.And I’ll thank you to not put bruises on him again.”
“Bruises?I never did anything to hurt him.”
“Oh yes you did.”She nudged him with her elbow.“On the night we went to visit Norman.I saw them the next day.”
“Oh.Well, perhaps I was a bit rough with him.But I needed to be sure he was safe for you.”
She raised her brow, and he sighed.“Alright.I’ll apologize to him.”
“Thank you.”She kissed his cheek.“And thank you for always looking out for me, Simon.You’re the best brother I could have ever had.Will you give me away?”
“Of course I will.”He pulled her in and pressed a kiss against her forehead.His embrace was comforting.“I know you’re tired of hearing it, but you are amazing, Samantha.”
She shook her head against his shoulder.“Not you too.”
ChapterTwenty-Three
Samantha’s stomach was filled with butterflies as she walked down the aisle on her brother’s arm.She watched with bated breath when he was asked, “Who gives this bride’s hand in marriage?”
He smiled down at her and whispered, “Are you sure?”
She laughed softly and nodded.“Yes.”
“I do,” he said, giving her hand a final squeeze before passing her to Trent.
Standing there, looking at the priest, unexpected fear burst to life inside her.She closed her eyes.It’s not like last time.It’s not like last time.A strong hand rested on her shoulder.When she met his gaze, Trent looked so concerned.His love was obvious.It really wasn’t like the last time.He wasn’t Norman.He was Trent, and he loved her.
The priest began speaking, but Trent held up a hand to stop him.He sniffed his disapproval, but Trent ignored him.“Are you alright?”
She nodded as a grateful tear ran down her cheek.
