“How formal are we talking for tonight’s shindig?”
“Very. She’s doing a full run-through of the ceremony, and she’ll be upset if you’re late.” She takes my hand, tugging me upstairs. “Come on, let’s get you ready.”
I let her pull me along, then spin her back toward me. “Does getting ready involve you helping me out of this shirt? Because I have very fond memories from last night.”
She laughs. “Nice try, Coach Marco. But you’re on your own this time.”
TWENTY-NINE
Scarlett
Even from the third floor, the muffled sound of voices hums through the house, pulling me from the best dream I’ve had in years. Brendan is sprawled next to me in those adorably ridiculous pajama pants, his arm heavy and warm around my waist. After the rehearsal dinner, we were both so exhausted that we fell asleep watching TV.
I take in the soft outline of his face, the cut of his jaw, the way he looks so peaceful. Then I turn my head and see the time.
Wait.It’s 8:30?!
I was supposed to be downstairs already. Two hours ago.
“Brendan!” I shake him a little. “Wake up! We’re late!”
He cracks one eye open, squinting like it’s too early for someone to be using words. “What time is it?”
“Eight thirty! Pictures start at ten, and my hair and makeup take at least three hours. I promised Carmen I’d set up some breakfast pastries for the wedding party. I’m in so much trouble.”
He doesn’t move, but just lies there like a man who has absolutely no concept of wedding-day urgency.
I poke him in the ribs. “Seriously. We need to get up. Everyone’s already at breakfast.”
“Let them eat.” He flops face-down into his pillow and ignores me. “Wake me when you get out of the shower.”
“Brendan Marco.” I climb back onto the bed, kneeling beside him. “You cannot go back to sleep. It’s your sister’s wedding day!”
I grab a pillow, and before I can smack him, he catches it with one hand without even looking.
Okay, so even half-asleep, he’s got excellent reflexes, thanks to his military training.
Showoff.
“You’re very bossy in the morning,” he says, cracking a smile without opening his eyes.
“That’s because I made promises. And I can’t keep them if you don’t get up.”
He finally props himself up on one elbow, looking unfairly adorable for someone whose hair is sticking up. “And this involves me how, exactly?”
“I’m using you for your muscles.” I scoot to the edge of the bed. “You’re basically my pack mule to carry everything upstairs to the bridal suite.”
“Never been compared to livestock before,” he deadpans. “How romantic.”
I reach back to unclasp the delicate gold necklace I forgot to take off last night. My fingers fumble with the tiny clasp. “Come on. We have to take care of this so we can get to the fun part.”
“Thisisa fun part.” He sits up fully, rubbing his eyes. “As long as I get to watch you panic about being late. It’s extremely entertaining.”
“I’m not panicking,” I protest.
“Youarepanicking.”
“Fine. I am. I just don’t want to blow your sister’s big day.” I give up on the necklace clasp and turn my back to him, lifting my hair. “Can you get this unclasped, please?”