Page 41 of Be My First

I go downstairs and grab a water bottle just in case he’s watching me. As I’m walking up the stairs, he’s coming down. I give him a confused look.

He nods toward the water in my hand. “You inspired me.”

I laugh as he passes me. As soon as I’m at the top of the stairs, I slip into my bedroom and shut the door quickly. There’s no way in hell I’m going back out again tonight.

I lean my head against the door. It’s for the best. Nothing good would have come of it. Absolutely nothing.

Sterling Family Group Text

Brooklyn: I’m still floating from yesterday. Thank you for letting us be a part of your special day.

Juno: Ditto. It was so beautiful and perfect.

Zadie: Was it legal though?

Keene: Legal?

Zadie: Yeah. You actually have to file paperwork and stuff to get married.

Keene: I didn’t know that.

Brooklyn: Really? You just thought anyone could just be like I’m married and that’s it.

Keene: Never really given it much thought.

Eli: Keene’s life motto.

Keene: Well, it wasn’t just anyone saying they were married. It was the President. You’d think the President could make it legal.

James: You’d think but no.

Maggie: No. Not legal. We’re going to go to the courthouse when we get back.

Juno: Can I go? Can I go?

Brooklyn: Me too.

Zadie: Eek. What fun – I want in.

Declan: Sure.

Juno: Two weddings. What could be better?

Keene: One wedding?

Eli: Ten weddings. A hundred weddings. A thousand wedding. Declan, why stop now? Let’s just keep doing it every week. Set some sort of world record.

Maggie: Tempting.

Declan: Don’t get any ideas. Two weddings is enough for me.

Olivia: So who is having the next surprise wedding?

Will: Not Juno or Keene.

Juno: I’m offended. Why not?

Keene: I’m not offended. No way I’m next.

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