Page 41 of Four Weddings to Fall in Love
“You don’t need to.I’m fine.”
Mom pats my shoulder.She isn’t usually affectionate, so this catches me off guard.“Stay here to compose yourself and fix your hair—”
“What’s wrong with my hair?”
“—and come back to the table soon.”
When she exits the room, I take a look in the mirror.My hair is a bit frizzy, and I do my best to get it under control before leaving the washroom.
I nearly trip over Max in the hallway.
“Hey.”He reaches out to steady me.“Your mom said I should check on you.”
“You didn’t have to listen to her.”
“Are you okay?I had no knowledge of my aunt’s plans, I promise.”
I never thought he did.“I’m fine.”
“If you make excuses and leave the wedding, I won’t be insulted.”
“I can handle it.”
“I just…” He runs a hand through his hair.“I noticed you didn’t eat anything.”
“There are lots of courses.I’ll get enough food, don’t you worry.”
He frowns.“What can I do to make it better?”
I stare at him.
“What?”he asks.
What can I do to make it better?His tone might not be full of warmth, but that’s just Max.I appreciate his concern.I’m not used to my boyfriends asking such questions.Not that Max Mok is my boyfriend, of course.
But the guys I dated in the past…whenever I was with their families, I felt like it was them against me.My so-called partner wouldn’t be on my side.
“I don’t think there’s anything you can do.”I pause.“But I have a question for you.Your mom is very quiet.Is that a sign she doesn’t like me?”
I don’t know why I care.Idon’tcare.I’m just curious.
He shakes his head.“She’s not very outgoing.Large events aren’t her favorite.”
Okay.That’s good to know.“The way my parents are talking about children and weddings…it’s making my skin crawl.It’s probably doing the same to you.”
I swear he hesitates before nodding.“It does.”He crosses his arms over his chest, and I should not be admiring the way his jacket is stretching across his shoulders, but I am.“Are you ready to go back?Or do you need another minute?”
“I’m fine,” I say, “but I don’t want us walking in together.You go first, and I’ll be there soon.”
“Very well.”He dips his head and strides back into the reception.
I stare after him, my gaze lingering even once he’s disappeared from view.There’s a strange flutter in my stomach.I haven’t eaten anything since before the ceremony, but I know this isn’t due to hunger.
Max cares about whatIwant.That shouldn’t be so remarkable, but when you’re used to your family and romantic partners not giving a shit…well, it matters.
It’s enough to warm my cynical heart.
By the time we’ve finished three more courses, my mother is prattling on about how I enjoyhiking,of all things.
