Page 21 of Nothing Breaks Like A Heart

"There you are," Andrew said, coming across the room. "I was about to come looking for you. Where have you been?"

"Just taking a break from the crowd."

"Anyone need a drink?" Colin asked.

"I would love some champagne," I told him.

"I'm on it," Colin said, heading toward the bar.

Andrew slipped his hands around my waist, pulling me closer. His lips brushed my cheek before he whispered, "You okay? You seem...distracted."

"I’m fine. It’s been a long day."

He tilted his head, studying me with a thoughtful expression. "I know, but we're almost done. We're cutting the cake in thirty minutes, then it’s the bouquet and garter toss. After that, we’re free."

"Free," I echoed, the word catching in my throat. "That sounds...good."

His smile turned slightly wicked, his grip tightening on my waist. "And then it’s just us. No cameras, no distractions."

"I can’t wait."

"Me, either. But before all that, I need to run down to my villa for a minute. Dana isn't feeling well. I told Jay I have some Advil, but they can't find it. Will you be okay on your own?"

"Sure, but do you want me to come with you?"

"It will only take a few minutes. Stay here. Enjoy yourself."

I nodded, watching as he disappeared into the crowd. A moment later, Colin returned with my champagne.

"Alone again?" he asked, handing me the glass. "Where did Andrew go?"

"Jay’s date isn’t feeling well. He went to get her some Advil from his villa."

"Ah. That’s too bad," he said, pausing as Harper joined us.

"I’m looking for a dance partner," she said, giving him a pointed look.

"You’ve found one," Colin replied, a charming grin sliding into place as he offered her his hand.

I watched them disappear onto the dance floor, Harper laughing as Colin spun her into the crowd. It felt like everyone else was moving forward—laughing, dancing, drinking—while I stood still, tethered by a weight I couldn’t quite name.

When I saw the photographer heading in my direction, I bolted, slipping out onto the patio. The air was cooler here, but I wasn’t alone.

Ethan leaned against the railing, his silhouette sharp in the moonlight, a whiskey glass in his hand.

"Really? You're here, too?" I said, my frustration spilling over. "Why are you everywhere I am?"

"I was here first, Lauren. And by the way, you’re welcome," he added, his tone dry.

"For what?"

"For saving you back there. Allison would’ve caught you spying if I hadn’t stepped in."

"I wasn’t spying," I said quickly, too quickly. "I was just...walking."

"What did you walk into?"

"I'm not sure. It sounded like Colin wasn’t happy Allison was here. He said she was going to ruin everything. Allison didn’t care. She said no one tells her what to do."

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