Silas entered behind her, then slipped off to the side to watch the proceedings. He wore an earpiece, andI could see him typing notes on his phone—working to ensure all the reception details were as perfect as possible, no doubt.
He glanced up and his eyes met mine and held.
In that moment, I wanted everything with him. I wanted him to join me at this altar, so I could promise him a future, one that I’d never turn away from or take for granted. I wanted him to see I’d be everything his ex-fiancé wasn’t.
I couldn’t say anything to him now—and I’d promised to wait until he was ready, so I couldn’t say anything to him later, either. It had to come from him. Still, I couldn’t help laying my hand on my heart in the hopes he’d read the love in my face and understand.
I’d never hurt him.
Caitlyn and Branson exchanged traditional vows, and I nearly lost the plot as I watched Silas watch me, heart in my throat. Bolton nudged me when I didn’t move quickly enough to hand Branson the ring. I pulled it from my pocket and handed it over.
“With this ring, I thee wed,” my brother said haltingly, not out of hesitation but restrained emotion. The hoarseness of his voice gave him away, the big softie.
Caitlyn beamed at him, eyes sparkling with joy, as he slid the ring onto her finger.
In what seemed both an interminably long time—and also the blink of an eye—the officiant declared them husband and wife. Branson kissed her, keeping it sweet and PG. Then they went down the aisle hand-in-hand while the crowd applauded.
We all hustled out after them, clambering into a classic limo this time to ride the few blocks to the reception. Once the greeting line was complete, we had to suffer through photo shoots on the rooftop—where the disturbingly handsome Nicowielded his camera with sexy skill. I was glad Silas wasn’t up there to see it.
By the time we all settled in to eat and make toasts, the rest of the wedding guests were already halfway through their meals.
After Caitlyn’s mom made a teary speech about giving up her little girl to a worthy man, I stood and raised my glass.
“I’ve never seen my brother as happy as he’s been with Caitlyn. I thought I was his other half as his twin, but I’ve got nothing on Caitlyn.” Everyone laughed as intended. “They are two sides of the same coin, both complementing and challenging each other. That makes them strong and fearless, and I know they’re going to build an incredible life together. Caitlyn, you’re the only woman who can tell me and my brother apart, so I know you must really love him. Take care of each other, and have a beautiful life.” My gaze sought out Silas. “I can only hope that one day I’ll be as lucky.”
After the toasts, Branson led Caitlyn in the dance she’d wanted so badly. The lessons had paid off, because he moved flawlessly through a foxtrot. When more contemporary music spilled through the speakers and other couples joined the floor, I went in search of Silas.
I found him conferring with a caterer about when to bring out the cake.
He caught my eye and turned. “Your toast was lovely.”
“Well, this whole night has been lovely thanks to you.” I held out my hand. “Have time for a dance?”
He hesitated. “Maybe just one.”
I took his hand and led him onto the dance floor. “That’s all I need.”
“You’re very sure of yourself, Mr. Larkin,” he teased as he slid his arms around my neck.
I tugged him in close, since the music had slowed to aballad, and swayed. “I just appreciate the moments I get in life.” I met his eyes. “I appreciate any moment with you.”
His lips quirked. “You’re a smooth talker, too.”
I chuckled. “Or perhaps this wedding has me all up in my feels.”
“Weddings do that,” he agreed.
“For you?”
He closed his eyes and lay his head on my shoulder. I thought he might not answer me, but after a moment, his voice whispered into my ear. “Yes.”
I held him a little tighter, pressing a kiss to his hair.
The song ended and he pulled back with a regretful smile. “Duty calls. We’ve got to bring out the cake.”
“Okay, but we’ll talk later?”
“Of course. When I’m done working, I’ll come find you.”
