Page 4 of Forbidden Desires

I smooth the fabric self-consciously. The fitted satin clings to my body, more daring than what I'd usually wear, but it felt like the right choice today. Bold. Confident. Even if I'm faking it.

"So," Annie says, looping her arm through mine, "How are you holding up? Seen him yet?"

I grimace. "Unfortunately. It's why I'm hiding behind this lovely floral arrangement."

She makes a face. "I still can't believe he's the best man. I mean... okay, I can. But it's still annoying."

"You think you're annoyed? Try being me! And I don't even know why I'm annoyed because I can't blame Ethan and Cole for asking their other best friend to stand up with them on their very important day. I can't even really blame Pete for accepting, even knowing it would make things awkward because he's probably just as happy for them as I am."

Annie gives me a sympathetic squeeze. "Just remember, I've got your back. If things get weird, I'll pull you into a dance-off or something."

I laugh, grateful for her. "I might take you up on that."

"Oh, and by the way," she adds with a sly grin, "I might have some good news too, but didn't want to take the shine off today."

I blink. "Wait, what?"

Annie giggles. "We were going to keep it a secret until after the happy couple left on their honeymoon, but I can't hide it from my best friend. They popped the question!"

I gape at her. "You're kidding!" I nearly scream before remembering I'm in hiding. "That's the coolest thing ever! Wait." I pause and put my hand on her arm. "They're already married. How the hell is that going to work?”

Annie shrugs. "Fuck if I know. But they got me a ring and we'll figure it out."

Her expression makes me laugh, my chest filled with joy, where just a few minutes ago I was overflowing with anxiety. "You're absolutely right. If anyone can figure it out, it's the three of you."

Annie's expression twists and goes soft. "You deserve happiness too, you know."

Before I can respond, my stomach twists again and I see Pete making his way toward us. Dammit!

And just like that, the air feels way too damn heavy. So much for him staying away.

"Okay," I warn Annie. "Showtime." I nod in his direction so she can see what I'm referring to.

Annie sends me a mischievous grin. "Want me to spill a drink on him or something?"

I snort. "Tempting, but no."

Annie squeezes my hand before slipping away, leaving me to square my shoulders. I draw in a steadying breath as Pete stopsin front of me. His brown eyes meet mine, and for a moment, neither of us says anything.

"Hey, Suzie." His voice is low, familiar, and way too calm for my liking.

"Pete." I nod, keeping my expression neutral. I refuse to let him see how much just hearing his voice messes me up.

He shifts awkwardly, scratching the back of his neck. "I—uh, it's good to see you."

Before I can respond, someone else steps up beside him.

A tall, blond man with sharp blue eyes and an easy smile. And that sexy five- o'clock shadow I find way too damn tempting.

"Suzie, this is Dexter," Pete says, gesturing between us. "My boyfriend."

Dexter. Hisboyfriend.

The word hits me like a slap, and my breath catches as I take in the two of them together.

I'm going to kill Ethan.

CHAPTER THREE

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