Page 16 of Lucky in Love

Cars and trucks line the pasture, as guests arrive at the ranch for the reception. We’ve got a tent set up with a view of the sun setting over the mountains. Mariah did such an amazing job on the flowers for the wedding and Ginger made a gorgeous three-tiered wedding cake.

“It’s perfect, you guys. Being besties with a florist and a baker has its perks.” I’m standing near the head table, already exhausted from taking pictures and greeting the long line of guests.

“We should do this more often. Oh, a wedding venue would be a great addition to the business!” Mariah says.

“Girl, do you ever stop thinking about business?” Ginger teases.

“Think about it. We have a florist, a baker, Fiona could do catering and bartending. Ooh, Branson could be the photographer!”

“It could work,” Fiona says, nodding.

“Honey, it’s time to throw the bouquet,” my mom says, waving me over to the front of the dance floor. “Fiona, you better get ready.”

“Haven’t you heard the expression ‘Always a bridesmaid, never a bride’? I invented it,” she says, shaking her head.

“Come on, Fi.” Ginger, Mariah and I all push her forward until finally she gives in.

“Fine,” she says, exasperated. “But I don’t have to try to catch it.”

I wink at Fiona as I turn my back to the crowd, toss the bouquet over my shoulder and spin back around. The bouquet sails through the air as aunts, cousins and friends dive for the flowers. Fiona stands stock still at the front of the crowd, her arms crossed in front of her, rolling her eyes at the enthusiasm of the girls and women jostling for the prize. As if in slow motion, the bouquet sails in a perfect arc and lands right on Fiona’s folded arms. She looks up at me, slack-jawed at the irony, and I toss her a smile.

Maybe my cousin is meant for love after all.

???

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