"A little bit to the left," I repeat, laughing. "That's awesome."
"What do you say you get out of that dress and we go get some ice cream?" Shea requests.
"I'm so up for that."
Nora rings up the sale, giving me ten percent off because of the shitCorinnepulled, even though I told her she more than made up for the other chick's annoyance. Nora insisted and there is no winning an argument with her.
"The dress will be delivered before the end of the day," Nora informs us.
"Thank you, Nora. You saved me from hurting someone."
* * *
Sheaand I head to Gill's.
We're finishing up our burgers when Carter and a few other guys from the football team come walking in. I wish Carter and I still had the easy-going relationship we had before, but I understand why he's distanced himself from me. If the situation were reversed, I'm sure I'd react the same way.
He spots us and heads over with a smile. "Pretty girls."
I smirk. "Smooth talker."
"If only," he replies with a laugh. “What are you two up to besides eating more than our linebackers?"
I look at the table with the empty plates, empty malt glasses, and we really did eat a lot.
"Hey, I didn't eat all my fries," I defend.
"That's probably a good thing or you won't fit into your wedding dress," he teases, but I see the sadness in his eyes, hear it in his tone. It makesmesad.
"That's the truth," Shea answers. "We just found it before we came here. You should see it. It's perfect."
Carter's smile is forced. "Yeah?"
Shea nods, not really paying attention to anything but her food. "She looks like a princess."
"Of course she does," Carter replies. He looks over at me, his smile soft, his eyes still so, so sad.
"I—" Shea breaks off, finally looking up and realizing who she's talking to. "Oh, God. I'm so sorry, Carter."
"Stop. It's fine," he urges.
"It's not. I can't believe I—"
"Really, Shea. I'm fine. I promise," he insists.
I reach out and rest my hand over his where it's resting on the edge of the table. I offer him an apologetic smile and he gently squeezes my hand.
"Saturday, right?" he asks.
I nod. "Are you coming?"
"I wouldn't miss it," he replies. "I'm truly happy for you, babe."
"Thank you, Carter. It means a lot to me."
He nods. "I know it does."
The guys call out to him, their waitress is waiting.
