Should she tell Mallory? On her sister’s wedding day?
Bemused, she left the room and ran into her sister on her way to the powder room.
“Hey, Justine. Isn’t this great?” Mallory’s eyes were shining, her smile wide and joyful.
Justine feigned enthusiasm and took her sister’s hands in hers. “Seriously. This wedding has got to be the hit of the year. You look gorgeous. I couldn’t be happier for you.”
Mallory squealed and hugged Justine, twirling them around. “I want to stay and talk to you but I’m supposed to get back for toasts.”
“Go. I’ll be back soon. And Mallory, I’m so happy for you and Ted.” She could only hope Ted would be the husband her sister deserved.
After hearing the emcee urge everyone to return to their seats, she hurried into the powder room to take care of business. Unfortunately, when she moved to leave, she found Mikayla sitting with a friend in the outer powder room, laughing. Then the friend departed with a wave, leaving Mikayla and Justine alone.
Can I please just catch a break?“Hi, Mikayla,” Justine said as she headed for the door. “They’re getting ready with all the toasts.”
Before Justine could pass, Mikayla stopped her. “Can we talk?”
“I really need to get back.”
Mikayla stood. “I just wanted to let you know that Mitch has moved on from you.”
Crap. We’re going to do this right now.“I know. You guys look like a terrific couple.”
Mikayla blinked. “Well, thanks. It’s sad, but the relationship between you didn’t work.”
“Um, I know. That’s why I broke it off.”
“You did?” Her eyes narrowed. “Mitch saidheended things.”
“Does it matter? You’re with Mitch. I’m with Xavier and couldn’t be happier.” If only it were real. “I hope you’ve had fun tonight. I know I have. The wedding has been terrific. I wish you and Mitch the best. Bye.” She hightailed it out before Mikayla tried to continue the needless conversation.
On her way down the hall, she ran into Xavier.
“I was just coming to find you.” He tucked a stray strand of her hair behind her ears. She’d left it down and long, and it looked great cascading over her shoulders of the strapless navy-blue dress. “I was ordered by your mother to get your ass back in your seat. Her exact words. I think she’s stressing.”
“Mikayla cornered me in the bathroom,” Justine whispered, glanced over her shoulder and saw the woman bearing down on them. “Quick, kiss me.”
“Wha—”
She meshed her mouth against his, but any notion of pretending went out the window as desire flared between them. The taste of him, of something sweet mixed with Xavier, went straight to her head. He felt so strong and solid against her, and she leaned into him, needing that connection.
“Justine,” he whispered as he pulled back, staring into her eyes as if he really saw her. And with Xavier, she thought maybe he did. “I think I lo?—”
Mikayla’s eyes widened as she passed them, breaking the moment.
Relieved, Justine turned back to Xavier, only to frown in concern. He looked poleaxed.
“Xavier?”
“There you are.” Jeanine speed-walked to them and hooked her arm in Justine’s, dragging her away. “We’re starting the toasts! Get back to the table.”
Xavier followed after, a wry grin on his mouth. “Sorry, Jeanine.”
“Don’t you worry, sweetie. I’m sure my gorgeous daughter distracted you.” She winked at Justine. “I saw that kiss. Oh my. Might we have another wedding on our hands soon? It’s best if you’re married before the baby arrives. I’m just saying.”
“Mom.” Mortified, Justine glanced at Xavier, only to see him amused and shaking his head.
But was it just her imagination, or did she see a flicker of fear in his beautiful brown eyes?
