“Keep it as a souvenir for when I’m gone.”
TYLER
I’m pulled out of my fitful sleep by my phone vibrating on my nightstand. I roll over in bed, reaching for it, sure after the events of last night it’d be blown up by too many fucking people.
Sunny’s words still linger through my head and her panties still sit on my nightstand as a reminder. The bundle of lace as my only souvenir and remembrance of her for when she leaves.
I look at my phone with blurry eyes to see texts from my family chat, but also at least seven text messages from Shelby. Rubbing my eyes, I try to look at the bright screen and see the time. It’s only 7:30am, but the thread of messages with Shelby has me sitting up straighter.
Don’t forget we are going to the venue today at 10am to pick out linens and other details.
We will talk to the venue about moving up the wedding. I want it at least this month.
You better be awake soon.
Both our moms are coming to help us out, too.
Tyler, how are you not awake yet?
Probably too tired from sticking your dick in another woman all night.
The messages go on.
I forgot. And I’m not sure why she expected anything more.
Sleep evaded me with insistent tossing and turning. I rub my hands over my tired face, recalling the events of the night prior.
The fact of the matter is, it doesn’t matter what the fuck I do, people are going to be mad, people are going to be hurt, so I may as well take the damn path of least resistance at this rate to reduce the casualties.
My phone buzzes again, notifying me of a text from my father.
Keep me posted about the venue. You made the right choice.
I walk around the venue with my hands in the pocket of my suit, hearing Shelby talking to the wedding planner a million words a minute—something about importing plates from Italy. I stopped listening after the fourth zero.
I stop in front of the massive panoramic windows that overlook the city and the water. The venue is certainly beautiful, withhardwood floors and a grand staircase leading up to a lofted second floor. Crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling, illuminating the grand ballroom.
It’s everything Shelby. But absolutely nothing Sunny. I see her in everything.
It’s no secret my thoughts about Sunny have gone beyond the confines of the timeline she’s given us. A wedding with her would be simple and intimate. Only her parents and our inner circle. Most likely in her hometown on the beach. We’d maybe even elope at the courthouse. Solely the two of us, and then celebrate with our family afterwards.
I know it’s crazy to think these things about Sunny. To be in love with her so quickly. To buy a damn engagement ring so quickly. To imagine a wedding with her and what it’d be like. I’ve only known her for maybe four months, but these things have all been on replay in my mind since the moment I met her. It’s easy to envision a life with her.
When you know, you know. I knew the moment I ran into her in the coffee shop.I’ve always known.
“Tyler, this venue is gorgeous,” My mother says next to me, taking me out of my thoughts.
Nodding, I stare out the window, watching the water glisten in the sunshine.
“Smile, Tyler. This is a very good thing.” She places a hand on my shoulder.
“For you.” I look at her.
She frowns at my comment. “You’ve known Shelby your whole life. It’s not like you are strangers being forced to marry.”
Her amber eyes look at me with remorse. There’s a sadness that mimics my own. Like she somehow understands my pain, without me even having to tell her.
“It’s her, isn’t it?” She looks out the window.
