Page 174 of Dirty Husband

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Maybe. I am shaking. But I don't want Shep to taste alcohol on my lips. Not after last night. Not ever. "I'm okay."

She shoots her sister one of thosewhat a difficult childlooks.

"Everyone is nervous on their wedding day." Quyen squeezes my hand. "You look beautiful. And you're doing the normal vows. All you need to do is walk and smile."

"Maybe." I struggle to walk to the other end of the room. I blame the soft carpet. Even if it is my cloudy thoughts.

This is bizarre. Three weeks ago, marrying Shep was the worst fate imaginable. Now, it's the only thing I want.

No, that isn't true. I want Dad to be okay. I want to practice my acting. I want to build a career.

But right now—

Where the hell is he?

I check my cell again. Nothing from Key or Lock. Nothing from Nick. Nothing at all.

No one knows where Shep is. If he's coming. If he's on his way to the Cayman Islands.

I tap out text after text. Erase every one.

Please come.

Don't make me wait.

I love you.

You made this stupid deal, don't be the one to renege.

You don't have to come. But talk to me. Tell me we can do this.

Let's go somewhere else. Somewhere small. Just me and you.

Anything.

Anywhere.

Mai pulls my phone from my hand. Turns it off. Slides it into her purse. "It's not the time for distractions."

"You do look beautiful." Quyen smiles. "Just like your mother."

"Older though," Mai says.

"Why point that out?"

"She is older."

"She's still young."

"Not that young. Only so much time for grandchildren."

"It's her wedding day! Let her enjoy it."

"You should—"

A knock interrupts them.

The officiant's voice. "It's time."

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