Page 2 of Forever and Always
“Shit, no,” I mutter, quickening my pace.
I rush into the estate, hoping to make a good impression despite my tardiness. Rachel wouldn’t be happy about this—she’s probably shaking her head at the office.
Inside the grand foyer, I’m greeted by the elegant Mrs. Smithson, who looks like she’s been waiting.
“Bobby, darling! So glad you’re here. Ready to get started?” she says, her voice warm but with a hint of expectation.
I take a deep breath, compose myself, and slip into my charming wedding planner mode.
“Mrs. Smithson, I’m so sorry for the delay. I’m ready to dive in and make your daughter’s wedding day unforgettable. Shall we begin?”
“Yes, please, Bobby,” she says, her interest evident.
As we discuss the wedding details, I can’t shake off the image of that officer’s rugged looks and piercing gaze. But I push the thought aside, focusing on the task at hand.
I refocus, pouring all my attention into the wedding details. Mrs. Smithson and I go over everything, from flower arrangements to catering. I expertly address each concern, my professionalism shining through. Mrs. Smithson seems pleased with the progress.
As the meeting concludes, I feel a sense of accomplishment. Despite the challenges, I’ve delivered a solid plan for the wedding.
* * *
As I pack up my things, Mrs. Smithson approaches me with a warm smile. “Bobby, thank you for your hard work. I feel so much better knowing you’re handling the details. You’re a true professional, and I can’t wait to see the final result at my daughter’s wedding.”
I smile, feeling a swell of pride and satisfaction. “Thank you, Mrs. Smithson. I won’t let you or your daughter down.”
Just as I’m about to leave, a commotion outside catches my attention. Raised voices and hurried footsteps echo throughthe foyer, followed by the arrival of that tall, muscular officer, looking even more rugged and imposing than before.
“Mrs. Smithson, I need to discuss the security arrangements,” he says, his deep voice commanding immediate attention.
My heart skips a beat at the sound of his voice—it reminds me of a beast, lurking in the woods, ready to pounce.
For a moment, everything else fades away: the wedding, the clients, the stress. All I can focus on is the officer’s presence.
I linger, pretending to gather my belongings, but really, I’m eavesdropping on their conversation and stealing glances at the officer. His expression is serious, his focus entirely on Mrs. Smithson.
“I understand your concerns, Officer,” Mrs. Smithson says, her tone calm, “but I assure you, we’ve taken every precaution. The wedding will be a private event with only trusted guests and staff present.”
His sharp, deep-brown eyes narrow slightly. “I’ve received intel suggesting a potential threat. I need to review your security protocols and make sure we’re taking all necessary measures.”
I notice the way his eyes sweep the room, briefly locking onto mine before returning to Mrs. Smithson. A shiver runs down my spine—I can’t tell if it’s from the tension or the intensity of his gaze.
Mrs. Smithson nods, unfazed. “Of course, Officer. I’ll have my team provide you with all the necessary information.”
As they continue discussing security details, I find myself captivated by the officer’s confident, authoritative demeanor. I can’t help but wonder what he’s like outside the uniform.
2
DARKE
Itry to focus on the conversation with Mrs. Smithson, but my gaze keeps drifting back to the wedding planner, Bobby. He’s been sneaking glances at me since I arrived, and I can sense the curiosity in his eyes.
I find myself wondering what his story is. He seems slightly out of place in this world of luxury and extravagance, yet he carries himself with confidence and poise. His slim frame and those cute glasses give him a vulnerable air, but his sharp stubble jawline and determined expression suggest a hidden strength.
As I discuss security protocols with Mrs. Smithson, I catch Bobby looking at me again. This time, our eyes meet, and I feel a jolt of electricity course through me, sparking an unexpected reaction. I quickly look away, trying to maintain my professional composure.
But I can’t shake the feeling that Bobby has seen something in me, something beyond the uniform and badge. Clearing my throat, I force myself to focus on the task at hand.
“Mrs. Smithson, I’ll need to review the guest list and interview the staff. I want to ensure we’re not missing anything.”
