Page 23 of The Last Shadow

Damien pulls me back up the aisle, smiling at the well-wishers in attendance. This is my wedding, the happiest day of a woman’s life dammit, and I’m going to enjoy every minute.

“Keep it moving,” Amelia says as she pushes us the last few feet up the aisle. “You lovebirds have fifteen minutes before photos and then the reception.”

“Thank you.” I turn and, in an uncharacteristic display of affection, wrap Amelia in a hug. “Thanks for being here for me today, Ames.”

“Wouldn’t be anywhere else. Especially with those vows.” There’s something odd about her tone and it doesn’t match the smile on her face, but it’s my wedding day and I shake it off. “Go. Don’t mess up your hair or makeup.”

“Yes, ma’am.” I salute her just as Damien tugs me into the bridal suite, which is really just a small room with a full-length mirror, pushing me up against the door. “Hello, husband.”

“Wife.” The word escapes him in a low growl before his lips claim mine, kissing me deeply. His touch is possessive, his kiss commanding, and I’m helpless to do anything but surrender to the rush of pleasure that overwhelms me.

A moan slips from me as I grip the back of his head, pulling him closer because I can’t get enough. I tilt my head to the side, offering him more. My neck, my collarbone, even my shoulder. Anything he wants.

Damien’s hands attempt to crawl under my dress, but they stop with a frustrated grunt. “This dress is beautiful, and you look gorgeous in it, but right now I want to rip the damn thing in half.”

I laugh as my head falls back against the door. “That’ll give you something to think about throughout the reception.” I give his chest a shove, laughing at his disappointed expression.

“Dammit. Okay.” His shoulders drop and he uses his palms to push off the door, putting space between us. “Tonight, you’re mine.”

“I’m already yours.” The look he shoots me is so hot that I swear the lace panties under my dress go up in flames.

For the restof the evening, it feels as if I’m floating. I can’t say I’ve been this happy since my parents were alive and even though I wish like hell they were here with me today, I lean into the joy and will remember it forever.

“You are absolutely glowing,” Amelia says when she brings me another glass of champagne. “So how does it feel being married to the man of your dreams?”

I shake my head, thinking about it. “Like I’m married to the man of my dreams, but we’ve only been married a few minutes, so I’m sure it’s going to get even better.”

“Damn straight it is.” She leans close. “There are some seriously hot rich guys here, so I’m going to go mingle and you’ll call if you need me.”

“I will.” I watch her saunter over to a cluster of Damien’s business associates with all the confidence and stealth of a jaguar. Those men won’t know what hit them in a few minutes.

Damien joins the group, shaking hands and introducing Amelia formally, which, judging by her expression, surprises her.

“Is this everything you dreamed it would be?” Jay appears at my side, hands shoved in his pocket as usual.

“Yes. I think it is. It would’ve been great if Mom and Dad were here, but I’m glad you were here to walk me down the aisle, Jay.”

“I got your back, kid. Always.”

“Thanks. I appreciate it and I know you have reservations, but I’m really happy with Damien.”

His expression is stoic, but he tries for a grin. “That’s all that matters.” He squeezes my shoulder and glances across the room where his date is chatting with an elderly couple. “Enjoy this day, Frankie. And congratulations.”

It feels good, this happiness and warmth filling my body.I’m happy. Perfectly happy.

“Francesca, you look stunning.” Jess appears in front of me with a brittle smile. “This dress was made for you.”

“Thank you, Jess, and thank you for everything. I know this isn’t in your job description, but you did a wonderful job putting all of this together. And I have a gift of thanks for you.”

“That’s not necessary. I’m always happy to help.” She looks around before taking a step closer. “Listen Frankie,” then she looks around again. Like she’s got a secret. “I’m only going to say this to you once. Be careful who you trust.” Her eyes bounce on Damien and then to Jay. Then her expression goes blank, and she walks away.

What the actual fuck?

Jess’s words leave me stunned and questioning her motives. Why would she say that to me on my wedding day? Is she jealous? I wonder if it’s the idea that she now has to share Damien with another woman, or if there’s something sexual going on between them.

I catch her working the crowd, flashing a polished smile and delivering two-handed shakes like she’s running for office. The consummate pro. I follow her every step, my eyes glued to her as I bide my time, hoping she’ll wander over to her husband for a dance or at least steal a moment of peace in the chaos of my wedding day.

That’s when I realize he isn’t here.

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