Page 88 of Taming Her

“Oh, she’s here.” Ava stood, turning to catch a first glimpse of the bride. She knew Griff would be a subject of interest for her friends all day. Never before had Ava spent so much time with one man, or gone so long without a wild night out. But she didn’t want them to know everything about their relationship. Parts of it were special, sacred, and yes, kinky. Only they truly understood it and she didn’t have time for those who might judge.

Griff linked his fingers with hers and gave them a little squeeze.

Sandy appeared with her father, her dress figure hugging and strapless, her veil fluffed around a glittering tiara. Her bouquet was a riot of pink carnations that matched her lipstick. She was beaming, her head held high and her eyes sparkling with emotion.

Ava’s heart swelled with emotion too. It was wonderful to see her friend so happy.

“You alright?” Griff asked when they sat, his thigh pressed against hers.

She nodded and held his hand tighter.

As the vows were read, Ava realized for the first time in her life that it was what she wanted—to be connected to a soulmate for all of time. Sandy and Ted were so well suited and their words in front of family, friends, and God really did express their love and commitment to each other.

For a moment everyone faded away, and she felt as though there was only her and Griff, holding hands, bodies close. She didn’t need anyone else, only him. He was her pillar of support as well as the man she loved.

* * *

“And now, ladies and gentlemen, it is time for the last dance before the bride and groom head for sunny Spain, so please all take to the floor.”

The tempo of the music slowed and the flashing white lights turned red.

Sandy and Ted embraced in the center of the dance floor—in what was originally the ballroom in a Clifton Manor House—and began to sway.

Ava stood and searched for Griff. He’d gone to the restroom a few minutes ago. She wanted to dance with him again.

“Can I steal this one?”

An arm snaked around her waist and Nathan, a friend of Ted’s, grinned down at her. His lips were wet, as if he’d just licked them, and his eyes glazed. Unlike Ava and Griff, he’d been drinking all day.

“Oh, but I…”

“Come on.” He winked and steered her a few steps forward. “Don’t be a spoilsport.”

Still she glanced around. Where was Griff? It was strange to have another man touch her, even just a simple arm around her waist.

Ava didn’t like it. Not at all.

“I’ve wanted to peel that bloody man from your side all day, Ava. Who is he?”

“My boyfriend.” She frowned and tried to wriggle from his grip.

His hold was steely as they stepped onto the dance floor and he tugged her close.

“Oh!” She slapped her hands on his chest in an effort to keep her distance.

“You need to break free of him,” Nathan said.

“I do not.” She pushed at him.

“He’s an asshole.”

“You don’t even know him, now get off.”

“And watch you waste yourself on a possessive, obsessive boyfriend.” Nathan leaned closer, his breath heavy with beer. “Not a chance.”

“Too damn right I’m possessive.” Griff was suddenly at her side. He’d removed his jacket, rolled up his white shirtsleeves, and loosened his tie.

“Griff,” she gasped, relieved to see him.

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