Except I didn’t want anyone clipping Cooper’s wings. He was a free spirit and a damn happy one at that.
He stepped forward and took my hands. “My dearest lady, your table awaits.” He leaned in. “Everyone’s starving. Those hors d’oeuvres didn’t last.”
We’d chosen some simple finger food for the guests while the wedding party posed for the obligatory photographs.
Pictures I was certain I’d treasure in the future.
Our photographer appeared, as if conjured. “One with the four of you just before you sit to eat?”
Taryn snaked her arm through mine. “We’d be thrilled.”
I met her gave with a huge grin. “Thank you.”
She returned an even bigger smile. “My pleasure.”
The photos went quickly, and soon everyone was seated and the food was served.
Cooper grinned as he dug into his chicken. “You know, this is pretty good.”
“You were expecting rubber chicken?” I arched an eyebrow.
“Well…”
“Given what Mom and Dad paid, I’d hoped it would be top-notch food.”
“Well, you’re in luck.” He buttered his roll and then put a huge chunk on his asparagus.
“Would you like some vegetables with your butter?” Lachlan frowned.
Cooper grinned and offered a little wave of…pleasure? Teasing?
I couldn’t figure it out.
Lachlan scowled.
Then bent down to rub his shin.
He glared at Taryn before clearly realizing Cooper and I were watching the entire byplay.
Cooper chuckled. “Bested by a girl.”
“Hush.” I hissed at him. “Don’t ever let Taryn hear you say that.”
“She gets my humor. So what’s for dessert?”
I narrowed my eyes. He knew we were having chocolate mousse or apple crumble. Wedding cakes were, as far as I was concerned, overrated. Plus, we had a couple of guests with dietary restrictions—better to give two simple choices that most people could enjoy at least one of. “Cooper—”
“I just, uh, need to stretch my legs. I promise I’ll be back.” He rose, offered a sheepish smile, and headed for the door.
What the hell?
Lachlan rose and headed toward the back of the hall.
Just beyond those doors were the washrooms.
I turned to Taryn.
She shrugged.
