Page 26 of My Cookie (A Dirty Boss Romance 2)

Chapter Twelve

Julien

I take a deep breath as I wait for Marilyn to come down to me. It’s been one thing after another this morning. I kept my distance all night because I had shit to do and prepare for, honestly, and so did she. Besides, she had a gaggle of women in our suite so it wasn’t like I could sneak in there and risk seeing any of them in any state of undress.

A shit storm happened while we were away here, but I don’t want it to ruin our wedding day so I have no intention of telling Marilyn. I’ll wait until the day is over, but it doesn’t help my mood. My brother knows and is doing his best to handle matters as I sit here trying to figure out how to sort out the rage I feel on one end and the joy I feel on the other end.

Her little friend with a crush is going to pay big time, but if I tell her what he’s done, she might back out of the wedding. I won’t let that shit happen. He’s already been arrested this morning and because I’m out of the country, I told the authorities that I will contact them in a few hours after I’ve already said my vows to my wife.

Still, every minute that passes and the service doesn’t happen, the more nervous I get that she’ll find out and put a halt to the wedding.

The large bells begin to toll, and then the wedding music begins and my heart settles. The doors open and Marilyn marches my way. Steadily with each step, I see her and I can’t fight the smile. Her brother holds her firmly on his arm and I start moving in her direction, but my brother grabs my shoulder.

“Hey. Let him do his job. He only has one of her.”

I nod, and she giggles. By the time she makes her way to my side, I feel a lot better. She truly looks like a goddess. “Who gives this woman to his man?”

“I do. Take care of her.”

“Always.” He slips her hand in mine and I feel at peace. We say our vows and slide on our rings.

“I love you, Marilyn Beaumont.”

“I love you, my husband.”

“Let us welcome Mr. and Mrs. Julien Beaumont.”

The guests cheer and clap, blowing bubbles as we exit with pictures going in full force. I’m happy, but I have a secret that I need to share with my bride.

Jack leans in and whispers, “Save it for later. Let her have this happy memory.”

“I hate having a lie between us.”

“I know, but she’ll be crying on her wedding day.”

“True.”

“Time to twirl your bride around.” I do, until Jack takes over.

The wedding is almost over, and my wife smiles sweetly as I pull her in for another dance. “You’re so lucky that I know that you’re trying not to break my heart.”

“What? What do you mean?”

“The fire.”

“You know?”

“Yes. I received a text and then I saw you and Jack talking earlier. You kept it from me so I wouldn’t be upset on my wedding day. That’s sweet of you, but how are you? How much damage is from the kitchen oven?”

“Kitchen oven?”

“Yeah, it’s only a small fire, right?”

“Baby, who sent you the message?”

“You’re going to be mad. I don’t know how he even got my number.”

“He?”

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