Page 78 of Three Pucking Wedding Dates

“Maybe,” I concede, taking another sip of my water, my throat suddenly dry. My mind races with questions and doubts, wondering if there’s a resolution to this predicament that won’t leave anyone shattered in the process.

As the music continues to pound around us and the room grows hotter, I feel the weight of my dilemma pressing down on me. There’s no easy answer, no simple solution to untangle the knotof emotions that binds me to Oakley—and Gray and Reid to her as well.

“Let’s just enjoy tonight and worry about the rest later,” Gray suggests, his voice tinged with a note of uncertainty. I nod in agreement, knowing that he’s right—there’s no point in letting our concerns ruin the night for everyone else.

The image of Oakley dancing, her long brown hair shimmering under the pulsating lights, is mesmerizing. Gray and I can’t help but share amused smiles as we watch Reid attempt to join their little group, his dance moves awkward yet endearing.

“Reid’s got some interesting moves, huh?” I quip, chuckling under my breath.

“Interesting is one word for it.” Gray grins, shaking his head in disbelief. “But hey, he’s having fun.”

It’s heartwarming to witness Oakley’s laughter bubbling forth as she dances with her friends, her bright green eyes alight with joy. But amidst the revelry, a pang of longing tightens within my chest, tugging at me until I can no longer ignore it.

I need space. Just a moment to think—to breathe.

“Hey, I’m gonna step outside for a bit,” I tell Gray, placing a hand on his shoulder.

“Alright. Take your time, Theo,” he replies, his warm brown eyes filled with understanding.

Pushing through the crowd, I make my way to the exit, feeling the heavy beat of the music vibrating through my body. The cool night air envelops me as I step outside, the sudden silence almost deafening compared to the cacophony within. My breath fogs up in the chilly air as I lean against the brick wall, tryingto process the whirlwind of emotions that have consumed me tonight.

Why does this have to be so complicated? Why does Oakley’s happiness both elate and torment me?

The cold air on my skin is a sharp contrast to the heat that radiated inside the bar. I take a deep breath, trying to clear my mind, when I hear the door creak open again.

“Hey, Theo, mind if I join you?” Avery’s sultry voice interrupts my thoughts.

“Uh, sure,” I say, forcing out a half-smile as she leans against the wall beside me.

“Nice night, isn’t it?” she says, her eyes glancing up at the star-filled sky before meeting mine again. “You seemed a bit…distracted in there.”

“Something like that,” I reply, avoiding her gaze and shifting my weight from one foot to another.

Avery moves closer, her body brushing against mine as she reaches for my arm. “You know, we could always find somewhere a little more private to hang out.” Her fingers graze my skin, sending an unwanted shiver down my spine.

“Thanks, but I’m not really interested,” I say, stepping away from her touch. My voice is firm but polite, and I’m hoping she gets the message without feeling rejected.

“Aw, come on, Theo. What’s the harm in having a little fun? You’re too serious all the time,” she persists, moving closer once more. Her hand finds its way to my chest, resting just above my heart.

I gently remove her hand, holding it between us. “Avery, listen. I appreciate the offer, but I’m really not looking for anything right now. Please, let’s just enjoy the night with our friends.”

“Okay, Theo,” she says, her voice sultry and enticing. “How about this? No strings attached. Just two people enjoying each other’s company, no expectations.”

I look into her eyes, searching for any signs that she might not be sincere. But all I see is a fierce determination and a willingness to adapt. I can’t help but admire her resilience.

“Even if I were to agree,” I say, “it wouldn’t be fair to you. There’s…someone else I have feelings for.”

Her eyes narrow slightly, curiosity piqued. “Oh, really?” She leans in closer, lowering her voice to a whisper. “And who might that be?”

“Can’t say,” I respond, avoiding her gaze. My heart races at the thought of revealing the truth to anyone, even someone as seemingly understanding as Avery.

“Secrets, huh?” she teases, a playful smile gracing her lips. “Well, I won’t pry. But if you ever want to take me up on my offer…” She trails off, leaving the possibility hanging in the air between us.

“Thanks for understanding,” I murmur, appreciating her graceful acceptance of my rejection.

“Fair enough,” she concedes with a shrug. But before I can react, she leans in and presses her lips against mine in a quick, unexpected kiss.

“Wha—?” I stammer, taken aback by her boldness.

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