Page 40 of About That One Night
“No. It’s something about him not wanting to commit,” Audrey says, glancing at me. “Just like you.”
I feel my jaw clench. “You judging me?”
She shakes her head. “Not really, it’s your choice. At least you don’t string people along for years making them believe you’re going to build a life together.”
“Is that what he did?” I ask, somehow knowing it’s true.
Audrey nods. I feel a mix of anger toward Tom and a twinge of guilt for my own past behavior. The revelation about Zoe’s situation stirs something inside me, but I push it down. Nothing can happen between us. Sure, when I first met her there was some interest on my side. I wanted something more than just wordsexchanged over the phone. Then, I realized she had a Tom. I have a career, and we weren’t compatible.
Now, it’s sad to know she has nothing, and well, I’m still married to my career. Every time I have plans with her, I end up traveling somewhere or working late as I lead a team while flying a droid.
“Even though you two are the only single people on this trip, make sure not to hit on her,” Audrey warns me.
“Why would I?” I ask, genuinely appalled.
“Please, you undress her with your eyes every time she’s around. Everyone knows you have a thing for her,” Audrey says, giving me a stern look. “I’m glad she doesn’t care for you, but just remember, she’s off-limits, okay?”
I force a polite smile, mumbling a noncommittal response before heading to the check-in desk. As I give my details to the receptionist, I can still feel Audrey’s eyes on me. She starts talking to herself, probably muttering about how stubborn her brother is.
I grab my room key and head toward the elevator, my mind swirling with thoughts of Zoe. Why did my sister have to say “off-limits”? I never liked when people told me I can’t do something—it’s enticing. A challenge. It makes me want to show everyone I can and I will have what I shouldn’t.
Chapter Twenty-Five
Maximillian
I standat the edge of the dining area, my eyes wandering over the familiar faces gathered to celebrate Liam and Audrey’s big day. The glow of string lights casts a warm ambiance over the seaside venue, softening the hum of conversation and clinking glasses. As I take in the scene, I can’t help but feel a mix of happiness for my sister and best friend, and a twinge of something else I can’t quite name.
“Are you hiding?” Liam claps me onthe shoulder, his grin wide and infectious. “I was wondering where groomsman number two had run off to.”
I narrow my eyes at him, pretending to be annoyed. “You could’ve chosen one best man, you know. Giving Cal, Eth, and me numbers is plain stupid.”
“Hey, Lily and Ethan instituted that during their wedding. It worked then, and it’ll work for everybody else’s weddings.” Liam chuckles.
A laugh escapes me despite myself. He’s crazy if he thinks Cal or I will be following in his footsteps. “The string of weddings is over.”
He pats my shoulder. “Sure, let’s go with that. Now come back inside, it’s time for the toasts. I hope you prepared something.”
“Oh, I have a lot to say. So many stories to embarrass you . . . but not enough that my sister will drop your ass, don’t you worry.”
We walk back into the private room where the rehearsal dinner is set up. My eyes inadvertently seek out Zoe in the crowd, drawn like a magnet. She’s radiant under the twinkling lights, her melodic laughter carrying over the din as she chats with Audrey and her bridesmaids. My heart does a little flip in my chest.
Liam follows my gaze, his brows lifting. “Your sister already warned you—she’s off-limits.”
“Who?” I feign ignorance, hating that my sister tells him everything. I liked it better when she thought he was just one of my annoying best friends.
“Zoe, obviously. Ethan is married to her sister, which makes her part of our group. She’s family now,so just keep your paws to yourself, okay?” he warns me.
“Not interested whatsoever,” I lie, tearing my gaze away from Zoe and surveying the dining area once more.
Just focus on the wedding, McCallister,I tell myself. And it’s easier said than done. The venue is breathtaking, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the ocean. The gentle crash of waves against the shore provides a soothing backdrop to the clinking of glasses and the hum of cheerful conversation.
The tables are adorned with elegant centerpieces—delicate seashells and sand dollars nestled among sprigs of beach grass, with tea lights flickering in glass hurricanes. The attention to detail is impressive. Who knew my sister had such impeccable taste? She obviously put a lot of thought into this moment, even if it won’t last long—unlike her marriage, which will hopefully be forever. Is that even worth it though? Being with just one person for the rest of your life?
My eyes glance toward Zoe, but just as fast as our gazes cross, I move away and shake off the thoughts. I grab a glass of champagne from a passing waiter. Tonight isn’t about me. It’s about Liam and Audrey and the love they share. And as one of the groomsmen, it’s my job to make sure everything goes off without a hitch—including not sleeping with the only single bridesmaid.
Does that include Zoe?
I take a deep breath, reminding myself to focus on celebrating Liam and Audrey’s love rather thanmy own frustrations. Still, the knowledge that Zoe is here, single and seemingly unattainable, lingers in the back of my mind.
