"Tomorrow's going to be a disaster," Mac told the cat.
Puck blinked slowly, unconcerned.
29
Rachel
Rachel stood in front of her mirror, hands shaking as she tried to fasten the delicate clasp on her necklace.
Today was the day.
Cole and Ellie's wedding.
And Derek might show up to destroy everything. Or he might not.
The dress Sophie had helped her pick out hung perfectly, soft blue silk that caught the light, with delicate lace at the shoulders. Spring-sky blue, Sophie had called it. The kind of dress that made Rachel feel like someone who deserved happiness.
Her phone made a sound.
Sophie:Car's outside. You look gorgeous. If Matthews shows up, we have a plan. Now get your ass down here.
Rachel:Coming.
She grabbed her clutch and headed for the door, pausing to look at Mr. Darcy, who was sprawled across her bed in judgment.
"I bought you the auto-feeder for when I’m not home," Rachel told him. "So don't give me that look."
Mr. Darcy's tail twitched.You abandoned me for that hockey player and his inferior cat.
"Mac's cat is not inferior. Puck is very distinguished."
Mr. Darcy yawned, showing all his teeth.
Rachel laughed despite her nerves and headed out.
Mac
Mac stood in the small room behind the church altar, watching Cole pace like a caged animal.
"I can't get this tie right," Cole said, his hands shaking badly enough that the Windsor knot had become impossible.
"Because you're thinking about the PT-asshole-Derek instead of your wedding." Mac gently pushed Cole's hands away and took over. "He might not even show."
"And if he does?"
"Then we handle it." Mac pulled the tie snug. "Jamie and Luke are watching the entrances. Tyler's got the parking lot. Coach Davies is positioned at the main door. If Matthews walks in, we'll know immediately."
Cole exhaled slowly, some tension leaving his shoulders. "This is supposed to be the happiest day of my life. Why does it feel like we're preparing for a siege?"
"Because the bastard decided to make it about him." Mac stepped back, checking his handiwork. "Perfect."
The door burst open. Luke bounded in. "No sign of Matthews yet. Parking lot's clear. Also, have you seen the spread at the reception? Sophie went INSANE. There's like fourteen types of appetizers."
"Luke," Mac said, "focus."
"I am focused. Focused on tiny quiches." Luke grinned. "Also, Mac? Your girlfriend arrived. That dress should be illegal."
Mac's heart did that stupid flutter thing. "Rachel's here?"
