Page 79 of Wedding Bells in Silverwood

“I’m fine. Are you okay? You didn’t get hurt, did you?”

“Not physically, no.”

“The worst is over.” Nick lifted Holly’s chin with a finger. “I did promise you a life of adventure, didn’t I?”

Holly couldn’t help but laugh. “This isn’t exactly what I had in mind.”

Nick’s smile grew wider. “Well, don’t let the drama get you down. After all, we’ve got a party to throw, Mrs. Mason.”

Holly leaned into him. “I do like the sound of that.”

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Viola stood near the kitchen doors, watching the newlyweds dance to a slow love song. Holly and Nick oozed affection, and Nick looked at his bride with a tender gaze that seemed unbreakable.

Sighing, Viola assessed how the evening had gone. The guests devoured the appetizers until there was none left. Oliver and the other wait staff said the main courses had been a hit. Viola mentally patted herself on the back for getting all the meals served on time and ensuring the quality, temperature, and taste were up to her standards.

My cooking teacher would be proud.

She was especially pleased with how the cake turned out. Though she’d baked many a cake and torte, this was the first three-tier wedding cake she’d ever made. All in all, as Viola reflected on the evening as it was coming to an end, she considered her first catering job a success.

Jonas entered the dining hall, and Viola sucked in a breath. His eyes met hers for a moment before he adjusted his cufflinks and pivoted toward Rachel. As he spoke with her, Viola spotted Amy—Oliver’s girlfriend—sneak into the room. Amy scanned the crowd until she saw Oliver filling champagne glasses at one of the tables. Amy sauntered to him and tapped him on the shoulder. Obviously happy to see her, he kissed her on the lips.

Oliver checked his watch. Viola knew Amy must have asked him how much longer he had to work. The reception had begun later than expected, but now that all the food had been served and the evening was almost over, Viola had no qualms about letting Oliver go early. He’d done so much for her and her mother. He deserved to be able to spend New Year’s Eve with his girlfriend.

For some reason, Viola’s eyes traveled over to Jonas at this thought. Jonas wasn’t looking back at her. Instead, he was focused on Oliver and Amy. His brows pulled together.

In the next moment, Oliver made his way toward Viola.

“Viola, I was wondering—”

“You can go.” Viola smiled at him. “You were great today. Thank you for all your assistance.”

“Are you sure you don’t need me anymore?”

“You’ve surpassed your obligations, so yes.” Viola lowered her voice. “So, you’re going to pop the question?”

Oliver’s cheeks grew crimson. “If I can get the nerve up.”

“That’s so exciting. Good luck. And Happy New Year.”

Oliver nodded, emitting a nervous laugh. “Happy New Year.” He held up a finger to let Amy know he needed a minute and then disappeared into the kitchen to get his things.

Viola’s attention went back to Jonas. This time, his green eyes were locked on her.

When he began walking in her direction, Viola panicked and slipped into the kitchen.

What is he doing? Hasn’t he made me feel bad enough?

She pulled her ponytail tighter and scanned the kitchen, hoping to make it seem like she was too busy to be interrupted in case Jonas came into the kitchen to talk to her.

She grabbed a rag and wiped down the counter. Jonas entered the kitchen, and Viola felt a rock in the pit of her stomach. Christelle, who was at the sink, looked over at Jonas and then Viola.

Viola cleared her throat. “Yes, Mr. Brickman, can I help you?”

“Mr. Brickman, huh?” Jonas stuck his hands in his pockets. “I guess I deserved that.”

“I don’t know what you mean.”

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