Page 58 of Flawless Aria

“Told you a long time ago that I got your back, Zander. I couldn’t have asked for a better husband or father for Melody and Hadley. Sorry I ever doubted you in the beginning but never again.” Swear we both get a bit misty eyed. Damn allergies.

“Okay, gentlemen. It’s that time. I heard we have a wedding to attend in a few. Let’s get this show on the road.” Drew leaves the door open and that’s our cue. It won’t be long now.

As we wait backstage for Wicked Immortal to finish their set, I search the crowd for a trace of Aria. She’s nowhere to be found. Should I be worried that she had cold feet? No, she’s just taking this superstition about not seeing one another before the wedding too seriously.

The guys run off the stage, wish me luck, and then disappear into their dressing room. They were invited, but whether they come is totally up to them. I know all of our families and friends will be here and that’s more than enough. To be surrounded by those we love.

I must admit, I’m a little nervous when Drew peeks around the curtain. “You guys are up in five. Let’s get this party started.”

All these thoughts are running through my head. Like what happens if I lose my drumsticks, because my palms are fucking sweating right now. That’s never happened. Ever.

All fear suddenly disappears when slender arms wrap around my waist. And her warm breath skates across my back. I rest my hands on top of hers. No words are needed since we’re spiritually connected in every way.

Our hearts beating as one and our souls joined forever.

ARIA

I realize nowthat I was punishing the both of us by being so stubborn about not spending time together before the wedding. I’m sorry now but it’s too late. I just wanted to be close to him before he went on stage. No words since we’ve already said everything that’s needed to be said. I have found my twin flame in Jaxon Carter. He’s the other half of my soul. My missing piece. And I’ve never felt so safe, so seen, and so loved as I do with this man. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with him.

When Drew calls his name, he hesitates. I know he’s desperate to turn around and kiss me before going on stage. It’s in every fiber of his being, but he won’t because he respects my wishes. And Jax has always given me what I want. Don’t you think it’s high time I gave him exactly what he deserves?

Me too.

He deflates when I release him and take a step back. Of course, he thinks I’m letting him go so he can do the show. Not a chance in hell. When he starts to walk away, I grab his arm, and he turns to look at me. Now that I have his attention, I stand on tiptoes and crush my mouth to his. Holding me tight, he lifts me up as our tongues seek the warmth of the other. Like heat seeking missiles desperate to hit their target.

“Jax, now!” Oops, Drew’s upset and that’s on me.

Brushing his thumb across my lips, he says, “To be continued, baby.” And then he disappears behind the curtain.

I’m nervous and yet so damn excited, because I know the next time he kisses me, we will be husband and wife.

“Ladies and gentlemen, without further ado, put your hands together for Rebel fucking Riot.” I’ve no doubt that the thunderous roar of the crowd echoes in the night for miles and miles and miles.

It’s a beautiful night for a wedding. Wouldn’t you agree?

“Hello, Manhattan! Not only are we fucking pumped to be here in our hometown with you all tonight, but you’re going to witness a piece of history in the making. Are you ready to get this party started?”

Jax doesn’t wait for the fans to settle down before tapping out the beat. Good thing because we’d be here all night, and I have more important things to do and places to go.

On any normal night, I’d be singing and dancing to their songs. Living in the moment. Tonight, though, I’m impatient. The sets seem to drag on forever and ever and the longer it takes, the more anxious I become. I was hoping Macy would be backstage already so I could hold her hand while we wait.

Since we had a rehearsal of sorts last night, I decide to play it over in my head, so I know exactly where everyone is supposed to be. While my dad walks me down the makeshift aisle. Hey, I told you it was going to be an unconventional wedding, but you’ll find out soon enough.

Once I finish running things over and over again in my mind, wondering what the hell I’m going to do for the next hour or so, Macy kisses my cheek and pulls me in for a great big hug.

“Are you getting cold feet? Not too late to run since you have your sneakers on instead of a poofy white dress.” I swear I hold her so tight that she can’t breathe. I’m so damn happy to see her.

“The only place I’m running to is right on that damn stage and into his arms.” She laughs, and since it’s contagious so do I.

“That is exactly what I wanted to hear. Okay, so everyone’s in place. They’re all so damn excited for the both of you and so am I, sweetie. Now if they’d just finish this damn set, we’d be golden.” Ain’t that the truth.

When Zander sings the last note and the lights fade to black, my stomach turns into a flutter of butterflies. The crowd is going wild, and they have no idea they’re in for a treat tonight. I’m just waiting for my cue after Zander’s announcement. Drew will come grab me when it’s time to run onstage.

The anticipation is killing me. When the lights snap on, Zander is front and center. Either the crowd notices his change of clothes or they’re just ecstatic they’re going to play longer. So not the case.

He tries to quiet them down, but they’re not having it. All the guys walk out, with the exception of Jax. They whistle, wave their hands, and do whatever they can to get their attention. I grab Macy’s hand and squeeze, because this isn’t something we could have anticipated if we tried.

Finally, once the crowd realizes there’s no more music, they shut up. Thank God. “Earlier I mentioned that history is going to be made here tonight.” The crowd gets rowdy again. Zander screams, “Be quiet.” Well, that got their attention. “Thank you. I’m sure all of you know that my best friend’s engaged, yes ladies, he’s off the market. And tonight’s a very important night for both of them, and for all of you, too. They decided to forfeit a traditional wedding so they could get married here tonight with all of you.” We did anticipate the roaring of the crowd after this announcement, and they didn’t disappoint.

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