One, I’m marrying a man I could barely stand until a few days ago.
Two, I don’t do well with crowds or strangers or people in general unless they’re talking about books.
And three, I’m a homebody, through and through. I’ve barely been anywhere.
None of that spells success for this ill-advised “adventure.”
But I won’t be a Negative Nancy on my wedding day. I’ve already agreed to do this, and I’m not someone who gives my word only to bail.
Layla is adorable. She’s a sweet baby. I’ll take good care of her, I’ll get paid well so I can afford a new apartment, and Jace will become the star he’s destined to be.
Honey joins us and squishes me in a hug. “I’m so excited for you. You’re going to have so much fun on this tour. Are you excited? I love road trips.”
Excited isn’t the word I would use. I’m guessing everyone filled in Honey on the details.
“It’ll definitely be an experience.” I nudge Baylee. “Thanks for the flowers. I can pay you back.”
“Shut up. As if I’d accept your money.” She hugs me. “I wish we had more time to plan for today. Maybe take you shopping for wedding stuff.”
“It’s not like I’m really getting married.”
“According to the state of Texas, you are.” She shrugs. “Plus, you guys have to pretend you’re married for everyone, right? Or is it only for fans when you two are out and about?”
“We’re pretending for everyone. Jace thought it would be better if we were consistent, rather than trying to flip things on and off depending on who we’re around. I was afraid I couldn’t keep everyone straight.”
“Smart.” She brushes a strand of hair out of my face. “You look gorgeous. Don’t forget to smile so I can get some good photos.”
“Photos?” I press my hand to my gurgling stomach.
Paige nods and gives me a hopeful smile as she snaps a blue bracelet around my wrist. “In case the label wants more proof you and Jace are legit.”
We’re so far from legit, it’s comical. Jace’s manager even spelled it out—I’m not his type and no one will believe he married me on purpose. That was a morale booster. But if Jace doesn’t care we have nothing in common, and doesn’t mind hanging out with a complete stranger for the next few months, I can suck it up.
“This is pretty.” I lift my arm to get a better look at the jewelry. “What’s it for?”
“It’s something borrowed and blue. You already had your dress, so that’s old, though it looks brand new. It’s lovely, by the way. And your roses are new. I wanted to make sure you were off on the right foot. For good luck.”
Admittedly, I haven’t felt lucky in a long time. “Thanks, guys. I appreciate everything you’re doing to try to make today better.”
A frown forms on Baylee’s face as she studies me. “If this is too much, say the word, and I’ll drive the getaway car. I don’t want you to do this if you think it’s a bad idea.”
Paige grabs my hand. “I’m with Baylee on this. Yes, we want it to work out for all the reasons, but not against your will.”
They’re so nice, it almost brings tears to my eyes. “I can handle it. Thanks, though.”
My words come out confidently, way more confidently than I’m feeling.
Three trucks pull up behind us, and a minute later, Jace and his brothers stroll up. Jace grins when he sees me. “Look at you. So lovely.” He kisses the back of my hand and winks. Leans closer and whispers, “I owe you. So fucking much. You don’t even know.”
I barely hold back a shiver and offer an awkward smile. “Glad I could help.”
I’ve never seen Jace in a suit before. In a tux and in jeans and t-shirts, sure. But he’s even more devastating in a suit for some reason. His thick hair has been tamed, but he’s still sporting his signature scruff.
Combined with the clothes and the scent of his cologne, I’m overwhelmed. The man should come with a warning: May cause dizziness and heart palpitations.
The Walkers and I make it up the courthouse steps while my heart races like I’m walking a tightrope. I try to suck in deep breaths to calm down, but my palms are sweating and my ears are ringing. Is tinnitus a side effect of making bad decisions?
When I agreed to get married, I thought Jace and I would do this without fanfare.