Page 106 of Shattered

That feels like a lifetime ago.

When I arrive, Allegra’s hair is already done, so I can work on her while Juliet does Macy and Neela’s hair. Her hair is done up in an elegant sock bun.

“I could’ve done your hair, you know,” Juliet fires off to me.

“I know, but I like it when Asher does it.”

“She’s inlove,” Macy says, flashing a smile.

“You do look really happy,” Allegra says as I brush some blush over her cheeks.

“So do you, beautiful bride. How did last night go?”

She smiles. “You should’ve seen Ian meet my mom. Was he a nervous dork when he met your parents as well?”

“Oh, a complete fool,” I laugh.

“Right!?” She giggles, and I have to back off her face for a moment so I don’t mess it up. “My mom adores Ian.”

“I think he’s a parent’s dream for their daughter. He’s soft-spoken and gentle; not many men come off that way.”

“Lila, thank you for being so cool about all of this. I was worried you’d feel awkward at the wedding, and I didn’t want that.”

“There’s no awkward feelings,” I say honestly. “You found your prince charming, and I found mine. Honestly, I was a little panicked when I heard you two were getting married. I just felt like I was falling behind everyone else, alone. But I don’t feel that way anymore.”

“Do you think you and Asher will get married eventually?” Allegra asks.

“It’s a little soon. But we’re both in it for the long haul.”

“What about you and Ty?” Juliet asks Neela.

“Maybe someday. We’re happy as we are right now,” Neela says.

Macy stands up from Juliet’s chair, her hair in an elegant, thick updo with thick curls. The sunlight hitting her from the window turns her golden.

“Mace, you look so beautiful,” Allegra says.

“You really are glowing.” The moment the words are out of my mouth, I freeze, my eyes drifting down to her stomach in her dress. I hadn’t noticed it, but with her tight sage green dress, she’s either put on a few or...

She shoots me a warning glare. “Lila.”

“Macy!”

She shakes her head as every set of eyes falls on her. “This is Allegra’s day, guys, let’s move on.”

“Are you PREGNANT!?” Allegra blurts.

Macy folds, her smile caving in her face. “Allegra!”

“I don’t care if it’s my wedding day, you tell us RIGHT NOW!” she blurts.

Finally, Macy caves. “I’m pregnant. We’re having a baby.”

Turner is officiating the ceremony like he did for Macy and Gareth. There’s no wedding party or ring bearer, but Neela walks Marina up the aisle with flower petals. The chairs are filled with our friends and family. I wave to Ian’s parents in the front row.

Ian was getting ready at home so he wouldn’t see Allegra, and he arrives near the beginning of the ceremony. He crosses the lawn to the back, and we watch as he approaches. He’s so dashing, in a full black suit with a sparkling white tie. I guarantee Allegra got it so that he could match her dress.

Turner stands at the makeshift altar, a simple podium Neela decorated with flowers. He shakes Ian’s hand as he joins him and greets the crowd with a friendly smile. When his eyes meet mine, he winks, and I smile back, squeezing Asher’s hand in my lap.

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