Page 33 of Off Season

“And Jacob? That cherry lip gloss?” I lick my lips, savoring the taste of him on my tongue. “You better wear that more often because you taste fucking delicious.”

“Wow, this is so beautiful,” Jacob says in awe, gazing up at the gothic architecture. “It’s like something out of a fairytale.”

It is. The wedding is being held in an early eighteenth-century mansion. History oozed from every inch of the grounds, from the ancient trees lining the gravel driveway to the acres of green land and the decorative crenellations lining the top of the walls. The winding white roses surrounding the entryway only add to the romantasy vibe.

Placing a protective hand on Jacob’s lower back while he takes what I assume is another hundred photos with his phone, I eye the guests arriving, all dressed to the nines. None I recognize, but it doesn’t stop my pulse from ricocheting.

Is it too late to leave?

“Can we take a photo to send to Alex?” Jacob’s voice pulls me out of my head.

“Sure.” I move to stand behind him, keeping up appearances by snaking my hand around his waist to rest against his stomach. He angles the phone up and smiles brightly, but his smile quickly turns into a frown.

“Ethan, what did I tell you yesterday?”

“Iamsmiling.”

“No, you’re not; you’re scowling. How are we supposed to sell this relationship if you look like I’ve pissed in your pasta?”

I snort at his analogy.

“Now, smile.” He leans back into me, and I wrap my arm a little tighter around him. He grins, and I do the same.

This time, it isn’t forced or constrained. The vision of us on the phone screen makes the stupid organ in my chestswell. His natural, ethereal beauty is a beacon. A sharp contrast to my rugged, crooked features.

He’s the beauty, I’m the beast, and he’s everything I’ve told myself I couldn’t keep.

He makes me want to let go of my tightly held reins and justbe.

To give in to temptation, lean into thewant, and pretend I’m not broken as fuck inside.

“Ethan!” My head snaps up at the sound of Mom’s voice. I let go of Jacob just as she wraps her arms around me in a bone-crushing hug. “I’m so glad you could make it, sweetie.”

“Well, it’s not like you gave me much choice,” I grumble.

She laughs. “True, but still, you look so handsome, and Jacob! You look amazing!” She hugs Jacob and smooths her hands down the sleeves of his shirt. “This is so soft!”

“Oh, thank you, Jennifer. You look absolutely beautiful. This dress is such a good color on you.”

“You’re a darling; thank you. Shall we head inside?” Mom links her arm with mine, and I automatically reach for Jacob’s hand. He laces our fingers together, giving me a gentle squeeze.

It’ll be okay,he silently communicates with a soft smile.

Inside, the seats face a grand staircase. More white roses line the banisters, along with twinkling lights that cast the perfect sparkle in Jacob’s blue eyes as he roams the extravagant hall, brimming with wonderment.

“Wow,” he whispers.

“They’ve done a fantastic job,” Mom beams.

“Mmm,” I offer.

She leads us to our seats, and as I’m about to sit down,my skin prickles. The feeling of someone watching me sends chills through my body all the way to my toes. I glance up, and that’s when I see him.

Ian.

He’s staring at me.

No. Not me.

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