This isn’t mind surgical procedure, it’s a marriage processional, the place our job actually consists of strolling and standing. I feel we will deal with it. However I get it. That is her job, and I take mine simply as severely. It’s about the one factor—apart from my cross-fit routine—I take severely. In any case, life’s too brief to not have enjoyable.

We dutifully re-rack our mallets and deposit our drinks and cigars on the tray of the ready server then observe the planner, skirting tons of of white chairs in exact rows going through the flower-covered arch on the finish of the aisle.

The clear-blue waters of Lake Michigan stretch for miles past, and a part of me needs the group of us have been nonetheless out on the water, fishing for trout, like we have been hours in the past. As a result of this morning, I didn’t catch a single one, and I by no means like to go away a job unfinished.

The cluster of bridesmaids, in matching mint-green attire, are gathered on the high of the two-story, marble grand staircase on the patio of this secluded resort. With an appraising sweep, I take them in, narrowing the sphere with a fast elimination of any sporting a diamond on their left ring finger.

After disqualifications, a single bridesmaid stays. And I can buy a lottery ticket as a result of, as I fall into place proper earlier than the perfect man, she’s at my facet in entrance of the maid of honor. And she or he’s a knockout.

Why didn’t Sawyer give me a heads up?

She’s late twenties, or possibly early thirties, and almost as tall as I’m with a mane of light-brown curls and a determine different girls would kill for. Particularly the set of tits which might be, sadly, tucked away beneath a neckline so excessive it requires a artistic creativeness. Regardless of. My goal for the weekend is locked and loaded.

“My eyes are up right here.”

Her voice has a metal edge to it however carries a particular contact of humor. I cock an eyebrow and take my time sliding my gaze as much as meet her appraising blue eyes which might be frostier than a winter blizzard, regardless of the sultry summer season afternoon. However then I freeze as my thoughts whirls.

I acknowledge this bombshell. I do know precisely who she is. The face of one of many largest corporations on the town, a lady recognized round Chicago for her potential to deal with the press and AV Industries uncompromising CEO, Luke Ashford, at the least till his current marriage.

I’m staring down a battle of curiosity however can’t appear to withstand. My lips curve right into a smile as I lengthen a hand. “Am I dreaming, or did I simply land the spot of a lifetime?”

She flicks a look at my hand however makes no transfer to shake. “Is dependent upon what you dream about.”

I drop my arm to my facet however lean in shut sufficient to catch the scent of contemporary flowers drifting up from the bouquet of white roses she’s holding. “Why, with the ability to spend a couple of hours in an exquisite girl’s firm.”

“Please inform me these traces don’t truly be just right for you,” she whispers, going through ahead as the primary notes of a recorded string quartet, enjoying the processional track, comes on the audio system.

“You’d be shocked,” I murmur as the primary set of attendants is counted off on the entrance of the road and disappear down the double grand staircase.

“I’d be shocked.”

The assertion, muttered below her breath, sends a smile racing to my lips. Sensible, beautiful and feisty? An irresistible mixture.

“Carson Bennett,” I supply, as we inch ahead. “I’m shocked Kelsie by no means talked about she was mates with the Mallory Stone.”

Mallory swallows, and the squeeze that works down her pretty neck is the one trace she’s shocked I do know who she is. The movement sends a curl of enjoyment via me, regardless of her composure that snaps again into place immediately.

All of a sudden, the need to peel away that poise, one kiss at a time, to disclose the eagerness flowing slightly below the floor, arises as clearly as a primary quarter earnings goal.

“Most likely as a result of she is aware of me properly.”

I face ahead however lean over, near her ear. “Are you suggesting I’m not your sort?”

“You’re press.”

So she is aware of who I’m. Fascinating. Usually, that data greases the wheels, however on this case, I discover I like having to work for her favor.

“And due to this fact…” I ask, trailing off in an invite for her to complete the thought.

“Off limits.”

That’s debatable.

“As a result of my firm covers yours?”

“Since you’re dedicated to honest and balanced reporting, and prefer it or not, I at all times have an agenda.”

In the mean time, I’ve an agenda, too. You.

Supply: www.seynovel.com