Page 66 of Wedding or Not

I can think of one thing we could do to pass the time.

But that would be entirely inappropriate since we already agreed to take our chemistry off the table.

Wes’s mouth twitches. “They have a pickleball court here.”

I perk up. “Oh, that’s perfect.”

So after we settle into the suite, we spend an hour playing pickleball.

The hotel spa calls up offering complimentary massages, so after we play and then shower, we do that and then eat a delicious dinner on the balcony.

I drink a lot of champagne, but who can blame me?

It’s late when we finish dinner, and I’m getting nervous, so to offset any awkwardness, I draw myself a bath with lavender and vanilla bath oils and soak for a long time.

When I come out with a bathrobe covering my simple nightgown, Wes has changed into gray pajama pants and a white undershirt. He’s on the couch in the sitting area, working on his laptop.

I blink. “Are you actually working?”

“Just putzing around. I wasn’t sure about the bed situation.”

“The bed situation?”

“There’s only one bed. Maybe you haven’t noticed.”

“Of course I’ve noticed. Oh, I see. You’re wondering if I’m going to make you sleep on the couch?”

“I’d be happy to.”

“There’s no reason for you to be cramped up there. We’re adults, and the bed is huge. I’m okay with it as long as you are too.”

“We can put a pillow wall between us if you’re worried.” He’s been normal all evening. His relaxed, quiet, clever, funny self.

I laugh. “That’s not necessary. I’m sure I can control myself.”

CHAPTER 22

When it comes right down to it, I’m not as blasé about the situation as I was hoping I’d be. Something is shaking inside me as I lie under the covers while Wes comes out of the bathroom to climb into bed on the other side.

We look at each other as he gets comfortable.

“Well, we’re husband and wife,” he says at last.

“Yes. I guess we are.”

“I’m tempted to ask once again if you’re really okay with it.”

“Please, I’m begging, don’t ask me that again. I’m fine.”

“You really are a trouper,” he says with a fond smile. “A lot of people wouldn’t have gotten through this circus with as much composure and humor as you.”

Okay, maybe I’m melting a little, but it’s in a very good way. “Um, thanks. And the same back at you.”

We smile at each other. Then keep gazing at each other from our respective pillows even after the smiling has stopped.

I clear my throat.

Then he does too.