NINE
Fern
My alarm goesoff at five in the morning. For a few seconds, I lie there staring at the ceiling, trying to remember where I am.
Then it hits me.
It’s the wedding day. Valerie’s wedding.
I groan softly and roll out of bed before the alarm can go off again. My entire body aches from the past few days of running around, barely sleeping, and staying up far too late with Jackson.
My eyes cut to where he’s still sleeping, and I grin as I take in his toned chest. I still can’t believe I’ve spent the last few nights in bed with him.
Jackson.
Just thinking his name sends a warm flutter through my chest. An ache follows right behind it.
Tonight is the last night. Tomorrow morning, I’m on the first flight back to Wolf Valley.
Back to my life. Back to my apartment above the bakery. Back to normal.
Without Jackson.
My throat tightens.
No.
I shake my head hard, forcing those thoughts away.
I have a wedding to run, and if there’s one thing I’m good at, it’s focusing on the task in front of me.
I shower quickly and quietly, being careful not to wake Jackson as I get ready. Pulling my hair into a neat twist, I choose a simple navy dress that’s professional but still comfortable enough to run around in all day.
By the time I step out into the hallway, my phone is already buzzing.
“And so it begins…” I mutter when I see Valerie’s name flashing on the screen.
I answer it. “Yes?”
“Where are you?” Valerie snaps.
“On my way to the bridal suite.”
“You should already be here.”
I roll my eyes as I step into the elevator. “We have hours until your ceremony.”
“Well, hurry up.”
Click.
I stare at my phone. “Lovely as always.”
The elevator doors open, and I step out, already mentally running through the day’s schedule.
Hair and makeup at seven.
Flowers arrive at ten.
