Page 75 of Protected Hearts

“What’s that?”

“No blood after the kiss.” He ran his tongue over his bottom lip where she’d bitten him.

He tucked her against his good side. She was worth far more to him thananysum of money in the world.

* * * * *

The living room looked like a bridal magazine had exploded over every surface. Swatches of ribbon, invitation samples and even a sparkly rhinestone high heel, were scattered across the coffee table. The wedding items were the complete opposite of the rustic elements of wood and hammered metal making up the table.

Shiloh knelt on the floor beside the table. A strand of hair tumbled from her messy bun, and she directed it behind her ear as she studied the display.

When Oaks came home from the hospital three days before, she got straight to work. At first, she was too shy to ask Layne for help. But one morning, the woman had found Shiloh standing on the enclosed deck, staring up at the twinkle lights strung across the ceiling.

Layne asked if she was considering a light display for the wedding, and in that moment, she realized she wanted her and Oaks’s wedding—the second one—to be just as magical as the evening they spent in the space.

After that, she recruited Layne to help her plan, and they’d spent hours collecting all the samples she stared at now.

“So many options,” she said under her breath. She plucked a photo of a floral arrangement off the table and frowned.

“I prefer the roses, but that’s just me.” Layne entered carrying a wood tray with a teapot and two mugs.

Shiloh sat back on her heels and smiled at her friend. “You brought tea?”

“I figured you needed something to settle your nerves. You’ve been working on your wedding nonstop for days.” Layne set the tray on the floor and sank down cross-legged beside her.

Shiloh reached for the teapot and poured a mug for Layne and then herself. The scents of chamomile and honey wafted up, already infusing her with a little more calm than she’d felt moments before.

Taking a sip, she let out a small noise of appreciation. “Thank you, Layne. It was really thoughtful of you to bring tea.”

“No problem. I told you before—we’re practically sisters-in-law.”

She turned her attention to her new friend. “Do you expect to plan your own wedding anytime soon?”

“We’ve discussed springtime. A nice little wedding on the lawn, just a small gathering of friends.”

“Of course. The honeymoon’s what is really exciting.” She giggled.

Layne gave her a sly smile. “We figured we’ve waited for each other for this long, what’s a few more months?”

She’d heard the story from Layne about how she and Carson lost touch and rekindled their relationship after Layne found herself targeted by a stalker. She still marveled at how in love the pair were. Seeing the infatuation and devotion on Carson’s face was similar to the way Oaks looked at her.

“When you’re ready to start planning, I’m here for you.” She scanned the table again. Tilting her head, she contemplated the floral arrangement options. “I can’t just choose roses. There are three different varieties in one photo!”

“Don’t let your nerves take over. Take a little break. You’ve been working for hours.”

She shook her head. “No time for a break. The bakery is sending someone over with cake samples at three!”

Layne paused with her tea mug inches from her lips. “You have plenty of time for a break. I’m sure Oaks could use one too.”

At that, Shiloh jerked her head up. “Oaks? What does he need a break from? He’s supposed to be resting!”

“Tell that to him. He’s been in the office with the guys for an hour.”

“That man! How is he going to wear a white tux if there’s a chance he rips open his stitches and bleeds all over it?” She jumped to her feet. “Or should he wear black? Or maybe we should go country-style in jeans with a dress shirt and tie, and a Stetson and boots?”

Layne waved a hand, shooing her away. “Go get your man. Both of you could use a break.”

Shiloh eyed the woman for a moment and then impulsively bent down and hugged her where Layne still sat on the floor. She patted Shiloh on the back, sending her off to track down her groom.

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