Page 153 of Off Season

“Okay, but you know I like busty blonde women, and none are hotter than you.” I grab her leg. “I can’t be held responsible for my roaming hands.”

Arizona laughs, but Bailey slaps my hand. “Leave her alone.”

I mock gasp. “Don’t be a twat swat.”

She pinches her eyebrows together. “What’s that? Is it like a cockblock, but the girl version?”

I nod. “It is.”

The three of them start giggling. Ripley asks, “What are other terms for it?”

“Hmm. Clam jam.”

Now they’re all hysterically laughing, and that’s kind of how the last night of just the four of us together goes. It’s a sisterhood that will never be broken.

This must bethe first wedding I’ve ever been to where I’m not running doomsday scenarios through my head the whole time. I believe to my core that Arizona and Layton are the real deal.They’re madly in love. It might also potentially have to do with my current status.

I’m a little loved up by Cruz Gonzales these days. Things have been going well for us since the disastrous proposal night. It’s not all smooth sailing, but mostly great. Sometimes I’m a complete asshole and treat him terribly, but I’m learning to recognize when I’m being selfish and attempt to apologize.

He’s endured a lot over the past few months. He’s basically been publicly humiliated nearly every day. He does so willingly and happily, all for my benefit. Where does one go from Cruz Gonzales? I’ve never been happier than I am right now. I’m at the height of my career, and an amazing person loves me wholeheartedly. I fear it’s the calm before the storm.

Arizona is full of excitement, not nerves, as she prepares to walk down the aisle. Ripley serves as the maid of honor, while Bailey, Gemma, and I all serve as bridesmaids. We’re in long, strapless royal-blue gowns. They’re well-fitted and have a long slit up one leg. I know Cheetah will see it as easy access and will have his hand up it all night. I can’t wait. I missed him last night. I’ve gotten used to sleeping with him.

I know the day is coming soon when he mentions us moving in together. He’s been slowly clearing space in his bathroom and closet for me. Being super mature, I’m pretending not to notice.

The music starts playing, and everyone is paired off. I’m excited to see Cheetah in a tuxedo. He’s going to look hot as fuck.

He finally comes into view. My mouth starts watering. He looks even better than I imagined. As soon as he sees me, his dimples come out, and he fans his face, mouthing, “You're so hot.”

It’s about to be our turn to walk down the aisle together, and he offers me his arm. He leans over and whispers, “Is that slit for easy access?”

I inwardly laugh. Do I know my man or what?

I respond, “It is.” I nod toward his bowtie. “I want you to do me only wearing that later.”

“Deal.”

We start walking down the aisle. He again whispers, “Will you marry me? I still have the original ring from Christmas. It’s in my pocket.” He wiggles his eyebrows up and down.

I simply roll my eyes at him, like I do every other day. He gets off on finding the most ridiculous moments to propose to me.

The ceremony and reception go off without a hitch. Arizona and Layton’s love practically radiates from everywhere. It’s kind of inspiring and has me all up in my feels.

Cheetah and I have been dancing up a storm, busting out all our Ms. Rylee moves. He’s so much fun to be with.

I notice Tanner dancing with my sister. That’s odd. I’ve never once seen him publicly touch her or acknowledge their fucked-up relationship.

The night is about to come to a close. Most people have left. I see Bailey leaving with Tanner. She told me earlier in the evening that she’s going to end things with him once and for all but wanted one more night with him. We’ll see if that actually happens. I hope it does. She needs to move on from a man who will never give her what she deserves.

Cheetah and I decide to have one more drink before leaving. We’re sitting there laughing, and before we realize it, the entire place is empty except for the band. He motions toward them, and they start playing a slow Latin song.

Cheetah smiles as he stands and offers me his hand. “May I have the last dance, beautiful?”

I happily nod as I stand and take his hand. He gets into position, and we do one of our routines from Ms. Rylee’s sessions. He’s so romantic.

When it comes to an end, he gives me an uncharacteristically serious look. “Kam, I love you so much.” He gets down on one knee and pulls out a ring box.

I’m about to turn him down as usual when it hits me that I’m not sure I want to. Why do I keep saying no? I love him. I want tobe with him. I have no interest in anyone else. Isn’t that what marriage is?