Page 42 of Theirs to Tempt: The Marriage Claim

Panic/awful feelings flood me.

Once upon a time, I dreamed of a magical wedding. And he ruined it. Just to force this moment.

Mrs. Henderson moves the discussion along…to the cake.

“I really don’t care.” It’s not like I’m going to take even a single bite.

“We’ll leave that to you,” Lucian tells Mrs. Henderson smoothly. If he’s annoyed, he is hiding it well.

We leave flowers and decor entirely to Mrs. Henderson as well.

But wine, champagne, and food selections draw interest from Lucian. Nothing but the best for his associates.

When Mrs. Henderson mentions the dress, my gut twists.

“I’ll go shopping with you.” Lucian’s voice is smooth, and his gaze is locked on mine.

“No.” Maybe he can force me down the aisle, but he will not dictate what I’ll wear.

Mrs. Henderson steps in. “Ms. Langford may enjoy having a friend with her.”

I’ve never been more grateful for someone speaking on my behalf.

After exchanging glances with Caleb, he nods. “The bill comes to me.”

I smile, and I know it’s as fragile and bitter as I feel. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

“And you’ll shop at Hautest Bridal Couture.”

You’re an ass.

But it’s hard to argue with his taste. They’re known for their exclusive shopping experience, and they carry numerous designer brands.

“I’ll get you set up with a private appointment.”

I finish my mocha. “It can be a short one.”

The tic in his temple becomes more pronounced. Good. He annoys me as much as I annoy him.

There are another million details, and we wrap up with me promising to send Mrs. Henderson my really short guest list.

Within moments, everyone begins to file out, and Lucian snags my wrist, gently, unlike the way Caleb had captured me last night.

“Dinner?”

“I’d rather not.”

He smiles. “It wasn’t a request.”

“I never thought it was.”

“Choose your attire carefully.” His eyes darken with promise, and the corner of his mouth curves.

“Meaning?” Why, oh why, did I ask that?

“You’ll be deciding whether you want to be rewarded.” He pauses, and tension crackles between us. “Or whether you’ll be receiving your first punishment.”

Chapter Thirteen