"Second row. Looking gorgeous, though not as gorgeous as my wife, obviously. Emma's wearing this black thing that—"
"Luke, we don't need a fashion commentary," Mac interrupted, though he was already edging toward the door.
"I'm just saying, you've got good taste. Emma agrees, by the way. She texted me that Rachel's dress is 'stunning' with three heart emojis."
"Your wife is texting you during a wedding ceremony prep?"
"We're very communicative in our marriage. It's healthy." Luke pulled out his phone. "See? She sent another one: 'Tell Mac his girlfriend is amazing.'"
Jamie appeared in the doorway, looking sharp in his groomsman tux. "Front entrance clear. And Luke, stop reading your wife's texts and help us watch for Matthews."
"I'm multitasking!"
"You're being distracted." Jamie turned to Cole. "You ready, Captain?"
Cole took one last look in the mirror. "As ready as I'll ever be."
"Then let's get you married."
Rachel
The church was gorgeous. White roses everywhere, Ellie's favorite. The scent was almost overwhelming, mixing with perfume and candle wax and that particular smell of old wooden pews that every church seemed to have. Late afternoon sun streamed through the stained glass windows, painting everything in jewel tones, ruby, sapphire, emerald.
Rachel sat in the second row, hyperaware of every person entering. Watching for Derek's arrival.
Mrs. Henderson settled into the seat beside her with a soft rustle of fabric. "Beautiful ceremony, isn't it, dear?"
"It is," Rachel agreed, though her eyes kept tracking the entrance.
"You look lovely in that dress. That blue is perfect on you."Mrs. Henderson patted her hand. "And that young man of yours looks quite handsome, I saw him outside."
Heat flooded her cheeks. Of course Mrs. Henderson had noticed.
"Relax, dear," Mrs. Henderson said gently, seeming to sense Rachel's tension. "Everything will be fine. Just enjoy the ceremony."
Rachel forced herself to take a breath. Mrs. Henderson was right. She should focus on the wedding.
The music shifted, processional starting. The groomsmen walked down the aisle. Jamie first, escorting Ellie's cousin with easy confidence. Then Luke with Ellie's Aunt Ginger, grinning like this was the best day of his life.
And then Mac.
Air stuck in her throat.
Mac in a tux was completely unfair. The dark suit emphasized his shoulders, his athletic build, the way he moved with that easy grace that came from years on the ice. His sandy hair was styled neatly for once, and those green eyes scanned the crowd.
Their eyes met.
Mac's entire expression transformed. He smiled, that warm smile that made her brain forget how to function properly, and mouthed:You're beautiful.
Heat flooded Rachel's cheeks. She mouthed back:So are you.
Today. She was going to tell Mac she loved him today.
Mrs. Henderson leaned over and whispered, "Oh my. That boy is smitten."
"Mrs. Henderson," Rachel whispered, embarrassed.
"I'm only saying what I see, dear." Mrs. Henderson's eyes twinkled with amusement. "And you're as smitten. It's lovely."
