"I know, Alice. I needed to tell you something important. Give me a minute, please, then I'll go."
"Don't even think about it. Whatever it is can wait."
"No, it can't! Alice, I have to tell her I love her!"
"Nathan, she already knows. Go now. You’ll have all your life to tell her."
No, she doesn't know. Because I'm an idiot, and I never dared to tell her.
My cell phone rings, and I don't like what I see.
"Weister," I answer.
"Hi, Weister. I'm sorry to have to ruin your day, but the order has arrived. At dawn, you and your team have to leave."
"I see." I end the call and refrain from punching the wall. "Fuck!"
"Nathan, watch your mouth."
"I'm sorry, Alice," I say, rubbing my face.
"What happened?"
"At dawn, I have to leave."
"Oh, no. Please don't tell her now. Get married and then talk about it tonight. You’d ruin this day, which should be perfect for both of you."
"May I see her for a moment, please? A minute."
"One minute, only if you promise that you won't let her know your disappointment."
"I promise."
"Go to her!"
"Thanks. I love you." I kiss Alice on the cheek and run to Izy. I knock before entering the room. "Isabel?"
"I'm here,” she says.
I join her in the bedroom and help her close the corset. "This image will haunt me all day."
"Nate, what are you doing here?"
"I have a minute," I say, and I see her smile. I kiss her with all of myself. "I love you," I say, looking into her eyes, which fill with tears. "I really love you, baby. I want you forever.” I’m out of breath as I taste those lips that have driven me crazy since day one.
"Time out! Out now."
"Alice!" I protest.
"Out."
I steal another kiss from Izy and leave.
Chapter Twenty
Isabel
"Ilove you."
