They pulled up at the venue, and Evan’s eyes grew wide.His weren’t the only ones.Deanna snapped her mouth shut after her jaw had dropped open.Mercedes had seen it several months ago when she’d gone with Carli to drop off some information and check on a few details.It had impressed her back then and still had her shaking her head.
Traditionally, the bride’s family footed the bill for the wedding reception, but Blake’s mother had put her foot down and refused to go to the American Legion.The woman was a dedicated snob.The Jamesons couldn’t afford this venue.Blake had suggested that he and Carli—mostly Blake—would pay for a good portion of the bill, which suggested his mother had wanted an even fancier place than this.
As they climbed out of the limo and ambled up to the front doors, both etched glass, Evan scowled.Must be nice to have the money to get married at such a posh place.
The foyer had a fountain with coins in the bottom.Dive for some of those, and it might cover a few drinks.
He laughed and slung his arm over her shoulder.They picked up their place cards at the table outside the ballroom, then found their seats.
Brian waved to them from the doorway, signing,We all need to take pictures of the wedding party and family.
They followed Brian to a back door that led into a fenced-in garden with flowers and trees everywhere, as well as a small gazebo and a bench by a tiny stream.Shortly behind that was a wooden bridge over the stream.Plenty of photo ops here.
Seriously?Evan examined the area.What is all this?
It’s so you can have beautiful pictures of the special day.
His frown increased.What’s wrong with standing next to a wall?
Mercedes stared at him intently.What’s your problem today?You’re being very negative.It’s Carli’s big day.You should be happy forher.
Evan’s face fell, and he lowered his eyes to the ground.I’m sorry.Fancy stuff like this really makes me nervous.I grew up pretty simple, and all this elaborate decoration isn’t what I’m used to.But you’re right.I am happy for my sister.Not because she’ll be rich now, but because Blake really loves her and he seems like a decent guy.I think everyone wants someone who’ll love them for themselves.
Was he talking about himself?She loved Evan for who he was, and she’d seen him at his worst and at his best.Should she tell him?Was he in the same place with his feelings as she was?How could she tell?He’d said he’d had a crush on her forever, but a crush wasn’t the same as love.
The photographer gathered everyone around and one of the interpreters gave directions.They started with pictures of the wedding party in a number of poses and positions, then added in family and moved some in and out in different configurations.For some reason, the photographer asked for a picture of her and Evan.When she peered over at Carli, her former roommate grinned and signed,You never know.
You never know what?Was she playing matchmaker?Too late.She and Evan had already matched up with each other.The trick was to keep them matched together.
Mercedes got a short break when pictures were taken of only the family.The Jamesons might include her in everything and make her feel like one of them, but she wasn’t blood, something she’d heard Blake’s mother talk about on numerous occasions.
At one point, Evan chatted with his grandfather, and Mercedes caught a bit of the conversation.He was asking about theLevel Twobook and if Evan was having any success.The handsome man glanced her way and nodded.She assumed he was telling his Pops about them working together.She also caught Evan asking for help with some of the math.She was glad to see his grandfather nod enthusiastically.Getting past his pride was Evan’s biggest hurdle.
When the photos were finally finished, they all trooped into the hall as they were introduced.The best part was after the bride and groom’s first dance, the wedding party got to join them on the dance floor.She happily went into Evan’s arms and held him close as they glided around the floor.
They didn’t say much as they danced, their hands busy holding the other, but she didn’t mind.It felt wonderful, and there was no place else she’d rather be.The expression on Evan’s face was lovely to see.He obviously was enjoying himself.She eased back just enough to sign,Do you like to dance?
He chuckled.Since I can’t hear the music, dancing has never been a favorite activity of mine.However, I have to say, I’ll dance all night if I can hold you like this.
Her heart thumped louder through her veins.I’ll put you down for every dance.
His eyes rose, and his lips twisted to the side.I might need to keep a few free.For my sisters and mom.If that’s okay?
Oh, boy.His reply made the love she felt for him expand and grow.Of course.
The song ended, and soon they were back at the table and dinner was being served.Evan made good attempts not to diss the fancy location, but every now and then his feelings came through on his face.
Be nice,she warned him.
Only for you.And Carli.
The food was wonderful, and even Evan had to admit it.If you’re not going to eat that roll, I’d be happy to dispose of it for you.
In your garbage disposal mouth?
His dimple popped out with his responding smile.Absolutely.
She sat back and allowed him to snatch her roll, wishing she didn’t always have to watch her weight.I’ll have to eat salads for the next month.
