Page 59 of Protection for Nichole

Jay grabbed the glass and slammed the water, knowing he should have been more mindful the night before. He had time to hydrate enough to sober up and not have a hangover.

“Thank you.”

“I’ve already showered. I’ll get breakfast ready while you shower.”

He thanked Sharp again as he stripped off his clothes. The shower felt good, but not as good as getting some food in his belly and coffee on board. Sharp forcing him to drink so much water helped, and he was able to control his headache with a few painkillers. He had an hour before he was due on the beach, and excitement was pumping through him.

“You ready?”

He nodded. “Yeah.”

“Nervous?”

“Shit. Is it obvious?”

Sharp chuckled. “I was so afraid I wouldn’t remember the vows, and if I remembered that, I was afraid I would forgetsomething else. I didn’t want to screw up everything in front of Danika.”

“You looked so calm and cool that day.”

Sharp let out a bark of laughter. “I was a total wreck.”

“You faked it well. I really thought you were so calm and collected.”

Sharp’s expression turned serious. “It will be an excellent day for you. You’re getting married to a wonderful woman who you love.”

“I do love her very much.”

“You’ll be fine.”

Sharp’s words made him feel better, but then panic hit. “What about the weather?”

“I checked when I woke up. No rain, just a few clouds. It won’t be too hot either. You’ll be fine.”

“Thank you. You’re doing great taking care of me.”

“It’s an honor to get you there.”

“Man, you’re going to make me cry.”

Sharp’s laughter lightened the mood. “I cried so much on my wedding day.”

Jay chuckled. “That’s good to hear.”

“The guys will be here in about twenty minutes. Go get dressed.”

Sharp hugged him before he left the kitchen. He was wearing the board shorts under a pair of loose blue pants. Nichole had told him the color would look amazing with her dress. He had no clue what she was planning on wearing, but he was very excited to find out. He couldn’t wait to see her on the beach.

He heard the knock on the front door and excitement pumped through him. He was ready and was glad the guys had agreed to show up and caravan to the beach.

The weather was perfect, and the beach wasn’t too busy. Nichole would show up in about ten minutes. His heart pickedup speed, and he had to take a few deep breaths, so he didn’t do something stupid like hyperventilate.

“You ready?” Sharp asked.

“So ready.”

“Awesome. Danika should be—” Sharp’s phone rang, and he pulled it out, flashing a smile. “Speaking of Danika.”

He answered but didn’t say anything as his eyebrows pinched together. Sharp’s gaze went unfocused before it zeroed in on him. Jay’s heart stalled at the look on Sharp’s face.

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