Page 48 of Buckled in Barbwire

“But you know our destination.”

His expression remains impassive. “Your guess is as good as mine.”

I blink at him. “And you’re okay with that?”

“Contractual obligations,” he grumbles.

“What type of clothes should I bring?” I’m hunting for clues like any sane person about to be snatched.

“Already taken care of.” Brody gestures to the trunk.

“You packed my things?”

His nod is a single dip. “And the rest will be delivered to the farmstead while we’re gone.”

“That’s invasive.”

“Or proactive,” he retorts.

“You just assume I’ll move into your mansion.” The desire to stomp my feet resurfaces.

He snorts. “Would you prefer we wedge ourselves into your studio apartment? Your horses are already at my place. Might as well join them.”

“That’s just temporary.”

He swoops down until his breath tickles my ear. “Much like our arrangement, hmm?”

“You can discuss living arrangements in the limo.” Mom approaches and wraps an arm around my shoulders. “Dennis planned this trip to be a surprise, dear. I’m sure it’s somewhere very romantic.”

“Spared no expense.” The man I previously thought was on my side suddenly resembles an instigator. “You’ll have the time of your life.”

Or I’ll never be heard from again. Not that I can voice my concern out loud without unraveling this entire debacle. It’s a bit late for that.

I’m outnumbered, which rouses my flight response. A quick stop at the bathroom might be in order. Then I can scurry down the fire escape before they notice I’m gone. That’s when I notice all eyes are on me. My swift exit strategy must show on my face.

Mom tugs me closer. “Are you worried about the expectations of your wedding night? Don’t worry, dear. I’m sure your husband will be a perfect gentleman.”

“Good grief,” I mumble as my face bursts into flames. “No, that’s not the issue.”

She exhales loudly, fluttering a palm to her chest. “That’s a relief. For a second there, I thought we’d have to review sex education.”

“Please stop.”

Her giggle has me bracing for more humiliation. “Don’t be shy. You’re a married woman now. Make me a grandma and I’ll be tickled pink.”

I’m about ready to demand entry into the stretch SUV just to escape this conversation. “This has been fun and all, but I have to use the ladies’ room.”

Brody grips onto my waist before I can attempt to flee. “We’ll stop on the way.”

“To this mysterious place that could be anywhere?”

“It’s close enough to drive.” He tips his head to our chauffeur.

The wind whips at my braid, pulling more tendrils loose. “That’s something at least.” I can hitchhike back to town as a last resort.

“Better get going to beat the rain.” My groom points to the sky that looks angrier than me.

“We’ll miss you!” Mom almost suffocates me in a tight hug.

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