Page 89 of Bridesmaid to Bride

Balls yawns, content and oblivious to the complexities of human relationships. I glance at Zach, the set of his jaw, the determination in his eyes, and I know he’s going to bounce back from this.

Hell, we both will.

46

Staying Afloat

EVA

The sun dips low, casting a golden sheen over St. Sebastian’s beach. Waves lap the shore with a gentle insistence. Paige is now married to Foster, and I don’t know how I didn’t see it before—but they make sense.

I can’t believe he wanted to marry me in a business partnership while he was in love with Paige. Because that would’ve gone well.

And as weird as it all happened, I think they’re going to work out because they have the same goals, visions for the future, and a chemistry that Foster and I never had. Their on-the-spot vows weren’t very smooth, but they were heartfelt, and they seem to really get each other. I can’t believe she kept that entire relationship from me, but then again, Paige does crap like that. It’s why she makes me nuts.

But she’s my sister, and we love each other, and no matter what, I know we’ll have each other’s backs.

The reception has kicked off, and the cameras are gone, so I’m officially off bridesmaid duty and need some time to myself. My dress flutters against my ankles as I stand on the shore, listening to the water and tasting its sea breeze.

Going in it looks tempting right now—something that’s the opposite of what I normally feel. I chew on my lip, wondering if I could actually do it. I normally hate the water—actually, I’m downright terrified of it after the car accident when Mom and I were in plunged into the river.

But today, I feel differently. When I close my eyes, the lapping waves draw me in further, like they’re calling to me.

For five long days and four nights, I’ve done things for everyone else, trying to make it perfect. Then my dad went and did whatever he wanted in the boiler room of the resort. And Paige blew up the whole thing by picking a new groom.

They’re living their best life.

It’s time I do too. I can venture into the water, and I will.

Sundress on, I take one step and then another. Before I know it, my feet are covered by the water. It’s not icy cold like the river was that day. No, this water is the perfect temperature, the cool droplets hitting my face. It gets easier, taking one step, then another. Until the water is up to my waist.

I think that’s far enough for one day.

I let my arms float over the surface in peace.

Emotions overwhelm me. I’m sorry, Mom. I miss you. Every day. Thank you for saving me.

Now I’m free to cook, to bake… to make chocolates and follow my heart. That’s what Mom would’ve wanted for me. She gave up her life to save mine. And she did that so I could live.

And now I’ve got to save myself.

Ideas rush to my mind, one after another. Gourmet chocolates, custom-made for clients. Making their beloved pets come to life or celebrating the purchase of a home with a tiny chocolate replica of it. That’s what I’ll do. But I’ll cook from home and get the clients first before I front any money for a store and operations.

Go slow and steady, just like I’m doing now, lapping in the waves and staying afloat.

47

The Presentation

WEST

Igot Zach all settled back in New York, then I flew home to Atlanta.

I spent these last two weeks in Blue Vine—with Balls—helping my parents with their store as I wait to find out if I’m still going to be the Groomsman to Groom. It doesn’t look good—it’s been over two weeks now since Darren told me that he’d “be in touch.”

And through all this, I can’t focus. I still can’t believe Eva said my name during the vows, and I’ve been dying to talk to her. However, after everything that went down with her dad, I know she needs her space. And after long talks with my parents, they’ve both told me it could be a while before she’s ready to commit and settle down with anyone after leaving her father’s firm and dealing with the fact that he said he doesn’t forgive her.

But when I think of Eva—and God, her laugh—it’s like a playlist of all my favorite songs. And I’d love to hear from her. I miss her so much it hurts, but I have to move on.

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