Page 80 of Three Pucking Wedding Dates

Reluctantly, I break the kiss, placing my hands on his chest to create some distance between us. “Theo, we can’t do this here,” I whisper, meeting his gaze. “Not in front of everyone.”

He studies my face for a moment, his eyes searching for something. Then, with a sigh, he releases me, taking a step back. “You’re right,” he murmurs. “We need to talk, but not here.”

“Fine,” I agree, my voice trembling as I try to regain control of my emotions. “But I still want an explanation, Theo. I deserve that much.”

“Of course,” he says, his expression serious and his voice sincere. “I promise, I’ll explain everything. Just not here.”

Theo’s eyes lock onto mine, a mixture of resolve and vulnerability. “It was Avery who kissed me, Oakley. I didn’t initiate it, and I didn’t want it,” he confesses, his voice steady but soft. My chest tightens at his words, my anger toward him dissipating, replaced by a sense of relief that’s quickly overshadowed by the lingering hurt.

“Then why didn’t you push her away?” I demand, needing to hear him say it.

“Because I was too shocked,” he admits, rubbing the back of his neck in discomfort. “But I promise, Oakley, you’re the one I truly want.”

I search his face for any hint of deception, but all I see is sincerity. It’s difficult to process everything that has happened tonight, but Theo’s unwavering loyalty tugs at my heartstrings, making me want to believe him.

“Oi, what’s going on here?” Reid’s slurred voice cuts through the tension, and we both turn to see him stumbling toward us, clearly intoxicated.

“Reid,” Theo sighs, his protective instincts kicking in as he reaches out to steady his brother. “You’ve had too much to drink.”

“Ah, don’t worry about me.” Reid waves him off, grinning lopsidedly. “I’m just having fun. But seriously, what’s up with you two? I thought I saw some smoochin’ from across the room. I thought we were keepin’ things…” His voice drops to a comedically loud whisper. “…Casual.”

“None of your business,” I snap, my cheeks burning hot with embarrassment.

“Maybe we should call it a night,” Theo suggests, concern etched on his face as he watches me closely. “You could use some rest, you’re drunk, and I’d like to continue this conversation in private.”

I hesitate, glancing around the crowded bar and feeling the weight of the stares still lingering on us. Maybe he’s right. I’m tired, and the last thing I want to deal with is more gossip about my love life.

“Drunk?” I scoff, indignant at the implication that I can’t handle my liquor. “I’m perfectly fine!” My voice wavers just enough for Theo to raise an eyebrow in skepticism.

“Okay, maybe a little tipsy,” I admit under my breath, stubborn pride refusing to let me concede completely. As I attempt to prove myself by taking a step forward, I stumble, my heels betraying me on the slick dance floor.

In an instant, Theo’s arms wrap around me, catching me before I faceplant into the ground. The warmth of his embrace and the concern reflected in his eyes shatter any lingering defenses I have, leaving me vulnerable and exposed.

“See?” I mumble, trying to regain some semblance of control. “I told you I’m not drunk.”

“Oakley,” Theo murmurs, his voice gentle yet firm, “you nearly fell. Let me help you.”

Our gazes lock, and for a moment, I see the depth of his feelings laid bare, a silent plea for trust. I swallow hard, guilt gnawing at me for doubting him earlier when he’s been different ever since we slept together again. I at least owe him a chance to explain.

“Alright,” I whisper, allowing myself to lean into his strong presence. “Thank you.”

Theo nods, his relief palpable as he pulls out his phone and dials for a taxi. Reid has wandered off, but Gray assures us he’ll make sure he gets back to the hotel okay. As we wait, the hum of conversation and laughter fading into the background, I can’t help but feel a newfound sense of gratitude for these men who have come back into my life, even after years apart.

“Taxi will be here soon,” Theo announces, his voice laced with determination. “Let’s get you home safe.”

The cool night air greets us as we exit the bar, my body shivering from the sudden temperature drop. I wrap my arms around myself, trying to steady my wobbling legs.

“Here, take my jacket,” Theo offers, slipping out of his coat and draping it over my shoulders. The warmth from his body envelops me, a comforting reminder that he’s here by my side.

“Thanks,” I mumble, still feeling embarrassed about my earlier actions.

We stand together on the sidewalk, our breaths visible in the crisp air. Cars zoom past, creating a symphony of honks and engines revving, but their noise fades into the background as I focus on the man beside me.

“Oakley, I want you to know that I meant what I said earlier,” Theo says, breaking the silence between us. “I care about you, and I’m not going anywhere.”

A mix of gratitude and lingering insecurity floods through me. “I care about you too, Theo. But…I just…it was really hard to see you two together, even though I know she likes you.”

Theo sighs, running a hand through his hair. “Honestly, I haven’t given her any kind of encouragement, but I think she was just caught up in the moment. People make mistakes, Oakley…” He pauses, his gaze locking onto mine. “We all do.”

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