Page 17 of Willow

“Why didn’t you use the limo I sent over?” Trevor’s eyes bore into mine when he notices me staring at Willow.

“I took the car since it would be easier in case I needed to get home. Thanks for the offer, man. It was very generous of you.” I barely heard a word he said because I’m focused on Willow and the way her tongue dashes out to wet her bottom lip.

This is way beyond a fantasy of mine, and if I let this go on any longer, I’m going to be sucked into the vortex that is Willow Adams.

“Understandable. Come on inside and I’ll show you to your rooms.” My hand electrifies when I guide her into the foyer. I know it’s fucking wrong, but I can’t keep my hands off of this girl! Ask me if I care? I don’t. There’s something about her that sucks me in and I’ll be damned if I can explain it.

Trevor’s shrill whistle pulls me back into the here and now. Thank fuck! “This place looks like one of those mansions on that hit television show. What’s it called, Willow?”

“Impeccable Mansions. This one is so much nicer than any of those.” Should I thank her or let it slide? I let it slide since I don’t think it needed answering.

“I’ve organized a room downstairs for the girls, and the guys have their own upstairs. Come, let me show you.”

“Sir, I’m going upstairs to bring the men some refreshments. I’d be glad to show him the way.” Ralph, my administrator, is always there at the right time.

“Thank you, Ralph. That would be great.” As I lead Willow through the foyer and down the long hallway off the kitchen, she seems nervous. Perhaps she’s embarrassed to walk these halls with someone like me. An older man. That thought has my chest tightening. She turns so quickly that I bump right into her.

“Could I use the powder room first?” I know fear when I see it, and it’s written all over her beautiful face. She’s afraid. Of what, though? It can’t be Beth since everyone, even me, threatened to kick her out if she opened her mouth.

“Of course. There’s a guest bathroom right around the corner.” This mansion has six, but this one happens to be the closest.

“Thank you.” She shoves the garment bag she’d been gripping tightly into my arms before disappearing inside. The lock clicks in place and it’s like a slap in my face. Did she think I’d allow anyone inside while it was occupied? Worse yet, did she think I’d barge in?

I need to stay since she doesn’t know where to go. She’d get lost with all the alcoves and doors. So I lean on the wall and wait. My house isn’t silent anymore when the voices of my guests drift through the hallowed halls. It’s been a long time since this house held over one hundred strangers. It’s a small wedding, and for that I’m grateful. I don’t think I could have handled being around hundreds of guests today. I’m on edge as it is. That girl has me all tied up in knots.

Speaking of which, if she doesn’t open this door soon, I will be going in. We still need to get dressed and the wedding’s going to start soon. “Willow, you need to come out now.”

With the click of the lock, she slowly opens the door. Clearly, she’s been crying. I gently push her back inside and use my foot to close the door. I hang up the garment bag on the hook, and when I open my arms she doesn’t hesitate. I have no idea what’s going on in that pretty little head of hers but she’s miserable. “Whatever you need, I’m here for you. I will say, though, if we don’t get a move on we’ll be late.”

“It’s all good. I just needed a minute to catch my breath. Thanks.” God, this woman just breaks my heart.

“Anytime. I’ll walk you to your room and then I’ll see you there.” She gives me a very weak smile. Willow always puts on a brave face, but she doesn’t fool me. I can see right through that tough façade.

We hear the laughter and the commotion coming from the room even before we get there. With her head held high, she grabs the garment back and stands on tiptoes to kiss my cheek. “Thanks. I can take it from here.” I nod, cross my arms, and wait for her to go inside. When she closes the door behind her, I walk away.

Now I need to throw on my suit so I’m not late.

GLUTTONY

“Gluttonyis harder than it looks. It’s listed as a sin, as something you give in to, when really it’s a skill, requiring not just hunger but resilience…”

Tom Junod

11

WILLOW

Abby’sthe mostbeautiful bride I’ve ever seen in herVera Wang. It’s a strapless, soft mermaid silk crepe gown with a cut-out back. Elegant yet simple. Just like her. It’s perfect. Lucas looks handsome in hisJ. Crewtux to match the guys. The ceremony, the vows, and the exchanging of rings was magical. It’s the perfect fairytale wedding. A day that they will remember forever, and I’m so glad they asked me to be a part of it. The photographer was on cloud nine with Caleb’s property just like I thought. It made her job so much more enjoyable. We just finished dinner, and now the real festivities are about to begin. This is what I’ve been waiting for all day. I’ve wanted Caleb’s arms wrapped around me all week, without any suspicion. Finally I’ll be able to get my wish when the dancing starts. I can’t wait.

When they announce Lucas and Abby, the two head out to perform their first dance as husband and wife. When they announce the wedding party, one by one we gather on the dance floor. I’m aroused when Caleb pulls me close. We fit perfectly together as if we were made for one another. I love the way his body sways against mine as the song hits its crescendo. I believe that sex with this man would be like a tempest of lust and need.

We stay on the dance floor more than any other couple here. Even the bride and groom! I’d like to think it’s because of our connection and the fact that we can get away with it today without anyone interfering.

Once the wedding starts winding down and some of the guests start to leave, Caleb turns to me. “Would you like to get a bit of fresh air?”

“If we could grab some drinks first that would be wonderful.” I probably shouldn’t have anything alcoholic because they’ve been going down like water since I’ve been so thirsty from dancing. Hell, it’s a wedding, right? That’s what people do when it’s a celebration.

When the waiter walks by, it’s the perfect opportunity for Caleb to grab a few off his tray. “Okay, let’s go.” I grab his arm and we head outside.

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