Page 33 of Christmas Embrace

“The wards are up. We’re not doing a repeat of what happened at your house,” Kade said.

“I said it’ll be fine. Sam took care of it,” Luca affirmed.

“It’s time,” the wedding planner interrupted. “Best man?”

“What?” Luca asked, appearing confused.

“Who is the best man?” she turned to Tristan and Kade.

“Not me,” the Alpha said.

“That would be me,” Kade confirmed. He turned to Luca, sensing his rapid pulse. “Deep breaths, man. You’ve got this.”

“Yes.” He nodded.

The sound of violins streamed through the air, drowning out the rumble of voices coming from the courtyard.

“I’ll be sending up your bride in just a few minutes. She’s waiting with her maid of honor and her father. It’s time for you both to go take your place.”

“It’s go time.” Luca balled his fists.

“You’re a lucky man. Now you heard the lady, it’s time to take your place. You go first. I’ve got your back.”

“Okay. Let’s do this.” Luca nodded.

“Always.”

“See you on the flip side brothers.” Tristan waved and walked out the door, towards Kalli who was already seated.

Kade smiled, elated for Luca as he stepped into the courtyard. An intimate affair, nearly twenty guests sat in attendance on white velvet chairs. A path of red rose petals led to an illuminated arc of willow branches intertwined with white hydrangeas. Crimson pillar candles flickered upon a bloodwood altar. Lights twinkled in the trees and fountain, a magical hum sizzled through the air.

As Luca approached the altar, Kade scanned the familiar faces in attendance. Tristan and Kalli sat next to Logan and Wynter. Dimitri caught his eye and gave him a thumbs up. Gillian, swollen with child, beamed, smiling.

Across the aisle, his loyal friend, Xavier, gave a small wave, which Kade returned with a nod. Laryssa sat alongside Quintus and Gabriella. The ancient vampire’s energy streamed through him as if he’d read his thoughts. Kade acknowledged him with a deliberate nod, and a friendly but cautious smile. He’d enjoy the protection of Quintus after he left New Orleans and planned to speak with him privately at the reception.

Kade refocused and took a deep breath, setting a hand on Luca’s shoulder. “It’s showtime.”

“I never thought I’d be this nervous, but…I am. Where’s Leo?”

“I just saw him in the…”

“Bonsoir, messieurs!”

Luca startled as Léopold appeared from behind him. “Jesus Christ.”

“No, just moi.”

“Easy.” Kade sucked back his laughter.

“I’m not sure how I allowed Samantha to talk me into letting you officiate,” Luca muttered under his breath. “I knew this was a terrible idea.”

“Oui. But of course I should officiate.”

“You aren’t even a minister,” Luca replied, smiling at guests in the crowd.

“But I am. Now anyway. I just received my certificate. You’re never too old to learn something new,” he declared with a smile.

Kade raised a questioning eyebrow. “You’re sure?”