Page 67 of Two Risks I'd Never Take Again

I met Garrett’s admiring gaze and felt my blood heat. My whole body was probably pink. Hopefully, Zach wouldn’t say anything about that.

The wedding party clustered in the room beside the chapel while the guests made their way to the reception hall across the path.

Harper draped an arm around Cami. “Eli really took Mad Dog seriously when he said to kiss the bride. I think he’s done it at least another dozen times since we’ve walked in here.”

Delaney’s cheeks flushed. “Sorry. We’re just so—”

“Leave us alone.” Eli pointed at Harper, then at Zach. “I have stories to tell about both of you. Be nice to me.”

Zach shook his head. “That’s not a threat. Haley knows all my stories.”

Laughing we faced away from them, letting them enjoy a few minutes before they were hit with a wave of congratulations.

Lilith pushed open the door. “Delaney and Eli, y’all stay here another second. But the rest of you, come with me.”

Cami laughed. “They’ll be super disappointed aboutbeing alone.”

Lilith escorted us into the chapel where Eli’s and Delaney’s families were waiting. “We’ll get a few pictures out of the way, then grab the bride and groom.”

After several minutes, Delaney and Eli joined us, and Lilith handed her a tube of lipstick.

The photographer continued shifting us around and snapping pictures.

While the bridesmaids were posing at the front, Garrett strolled into the chapel and stood in the back of the room. I’d seen magazine covers that didn’t look as good.

He watched as we finished taking pictures.

The photographer looked at the screen on the back of her camera. “I think we’re done. Thank you all for your patience.”

Lilith clapped, trying to get everyone’s attention. “The grand entrance is just going to be the bride and groom. The rest of you, please head over to the reception and get ready to cheer for our happy couple.”

Garrett eased up beside me and held out his arm. I snuggled close to him as we hurried through the cold and into the reception hall.

“Would you like something to drink?” He shoved his hands in his pockets.

“Yes, but I’ll go with you.” I looped my arm around his and walked beside him as he made his way to the bar. “The ceremony was beautiful, wasn’t it?”

“Very. I might’ve shed a few tears when Eli choked up during his vows, but that can be our secret.” Garrett leaned in close, and his breath tickled my ear as he spoke. “You look fantastic, Tessa. Absolutely stunning.”

“Thank you.” I leaned against him. “You look very handsome in your suit. I’ve never seen you so dressed up.”

“What can I get for you?” The bartender smiled.

Garrett looked down at me. “What would you like?”

“A glass of wine would be wonderful.” I snuggled closer to him, appreciating his warmth.

“A glass of Moscato and a Shiner, please.” Garrett shrugged off his suit coat. “I’m sorry. You must be cold in that dress.”

“Just because we were outside for a minute. I’ll warm up. You don’t have to—”

“Please.” He draped it around my shoulders. “For a few minutes.”

“Thank you.”

As the bartender handed over our drinks, the deejay called for everyone’s attention.

“They’re coming.” I grabbed Garrett’s hand and pulled him closer to the entrance.

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