Page 49 of Connected By Stars
“After Mimi has everyone seated and says a few words, Noah and Emma will do their written vows to each other,” Claire explains. “Then Maverick, you’ll give the rings to Noahas Mimi joins them in marriage after they say I do. She’ll pronounce them husband and wife, and they kiss.” Noah grabs Emma and kisses her, dipping her low for a long kiss.
“Ow ow,” yells Skye while I whistle. Laughing, Emma and Noah come up for air.
“So after that kiss,” Claire says, laughing. “You both will walk down the aisle. Maverick and Skye will follow once you get to the end of the aisle, followed by the rest of the wedding party.” Skye puts her hand on my arm as we go down the aisle after Emma and Noah.
“Well, that went better than expected. The guys must be on their best behavior tonight,” Skye laughs with Emma.
“Hey, we can act like grown-ups when we want to,” I say, grinning.
“This wedding is going to be so beautiful,” Bell says, reaching the end of the aisle. “This place is amazing! I can’t wait to see it in the evening with all of the fairy lights and flowers. They did a beautiful job renovating this place, and I love how there’ll be a balcony outside with a view of the water during the reception upstairs.”
“Noah and I knew when we saw this place that this is where we wanted to get married. The guests can have cocktails upstairs while we get our pictures done. They can even walk the beach if they want to. It’s just better than I could have imagined.” Emma grins up at Noah.
“I just want this day to be perfect for you,” Noah says, putting his arms around her.
“I’m marrying you. It’s already perfect.” She reaches up to kiss him.
“You guys couldn’t get any cuter if you tried,” Skye says, sighing.
“Does anyone have any questions?” Claire asks, coming over to our group.
“I think we’re good,” Noah says.
“Perfect. I’ll let you get to your dinner then, and I’ll see everyone tomorrow around four. The photographers and videographers are scheduled to arrive then, too. All you two need to do is relax and enjoy your special day. We’ll take care of everything else.”
“Thanks, Claire. We really appreciate it. I can’t wait to see this place tomorrow night. It’s going to be beautiful,” Emma says, hugging Claire.
“You’re so welcome. We’ll see you tomorrow then.” Claire waves goodbye before heading back to work.
“So, who’s ready to eat? I’m starving.” Noah says, taking Emma’s hand and leading her to the door.
“Me too. I’ve been looking forward to tonight’s dinner all day,” Cole laughs and throws his arm around Skye.
“We’ll meet you guys soon,” I tell Noah as we walk outside. “Do you and Bell want to ride over with me? I think everyone else is still looking around inside.”
“Yeah, let me tell Mom and Dad that we’re riding with you.” Sophia disappears inside, leaving me alone with Bell.
“So, what did you think of the rehearsal? It’s going to be beautiful tomorrow.” Bell says when Sophia leaves.
“I think that if you’re even half as beautiful as you were tonight walking down the aisle, I’m going to have a hard time focusing on the wedding around me.”
“I was having a hard time concentrating tonight too.”
“I really want to kiss you right now,” I tell her quietly.
“Me too,” she says softly. I take a step toward her and stop when Sophia comes back out.
“Mom and Dad are going to meet us there. They’re checking the reception area with everyone else and making sure everything is set for tomorrow.”
“Sounds good,” I say, getting my keys out of my pocket. Iwalk with the girls to my Jeep. Sophia climbs in the back, and I open the passenger door for Bell.
“Thanks,” she says, hiking her skirt up and climbing in. I see her bare thigh and let out a frustrated sigh as I close the door. This not having sex is really starting to get to me. It’s been over a month, and I feel like I’m going insane. This has got to be the longest foreplay in the history of foreplays, and it gets harder every day, no pun intended.
I climb into the Jeep and drive us to Noah and Emma’s. I’m glad we’re having the dinner over there. It’s much more private than a restaurant, which means I will get my kiss one way or another tonight. I glance over at Bell, and she has a small smile on her lips as she watches me. It’s like she knows what I’m thinking.
“What are you and Sara’s plans after the wedding?” Sophia asks me. “Is she staying in your room?”
I look in the rearview mirror at my sister. “No, I told you she’s just a friend. I learned my lesson at James’ wedding to never take a girl who wants more. It's the same reason you’re taking Frankie. I just want to have a good time.”
