Page 190 of Bodyguard By Night

While I was downstairs waiting for him, I made sure my software was still doing the last pass on Rachel’s wedding present. It took ages even with Poe’s added memory. Then again, I was used to doing three-minute videos.

Guess I’d have to upgrade my gear if—when—I started making longer form videos.

I was tempted to check my social media accounts, but I didn’t want anything to ruin my mood. My sister was getting married tomorrow. I was not going to let some asshole ruin every part of it.

Midnight popped off the floor, making me jump.

“Wow.” Ransom came down the stairs wearing black-on-black and my whole system shivered. For good reason. “You clean up nice, Grumpasaurus.”

“Thanks. I hate wearing a suit.”

“Well, it really likes you.” I patted Midnight on the head. “Ready to go?”

“If you are.”

I grabbed my navy clutch and tucked my phone away as well as my lipstick and my tiny black fold-up shoes that were the best invention in the history of inventions. That was about all that fit in the stupid little thing, but this dress didn’t have pockets.

We took Veronica because he was still wary of the whole hacker aspect. I didn’t mind so much, especially since the night air was warm enough that I could skip a jacket.

The lodge was lit up and the parking lot held about a dozen cars. A few topiaries had replaced the usual greeneries in the front of the bed and breakfast entrance.

We headed inside, chatting like any other normal-ish couple.

Until Ransom slowed as he spotted Reid in the atrium. “What’s he doing here? I thought this was family only.”

“I don’t know. Oh, Helena.”

He glanced at me. “Helena?”

“Yeah, one of Rachel’s bridesmaids had to bow out. Her mom got sick. I think Helena jumped in to help out.”

His shoulders tightened, and I touched his cheek. Sure enough, he was grinding like crazy. “Dusty molars, sir.”

It was enough to make him relax and laugh. “Come on, let’s get inside. Best man and maid of honor need to be on time.”

The room was full of everyone I loved and when I saw Rachel and Clay laughing in the center of everything, my heart expanded.

Thiswas the important part.

I dragged Ransom over to my parents first. Might as well get that over with. He was all tightened up again, but this time, it was for regular boyfriend—er, fiancé reasons.

I hugged my mom and then my dad. My dad’s peppermint and Old Spice scent instantly eased some of my nerves.

“Mom, Dad, this is Ransom.” I smiled brightly. “Ransom, Patrick and Claire Doyle.”

“Sir. Ma’am.” Ransom was stiff as he shook my dad’s hand and gentle with my mom. “Pleased to meet you.”

I clutched Ransom’s hand. “So…things happened a little fast, but I wanted you to know before—”

“You’re getting married?” My mother’s mouth was a thin line. “Yes, your aunt told me.”

I winced. Dammit, Laverne.

I hadn’t thought of that part.Crap.

“Sorry.”

“It’s my fault, ma’am—Mrs. Doyle.” Ransom cleared his throat. “I swept her off her feet. Well, she sort of did it to me instead. I’m just along for the ride. I do love her very much, though.”

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