Love Beneath the Stars : A Matchmaker Wedding Novella (Entertaining Love) by Claerie Kavanaugh

Author:Claerie Kavanaugh [Kavanaugh, Claerie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Half Caff Press
Published: 2023-04-25T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Five

Eve

February 13

There are only a few hours before the rehearsal dinner. II nervously smooth my clammy hands over the s turquoise linen dress with the halter top neckline I've chosen for tonight's rehearsal dinner.

"Are you ready, sweetheart?" Aunt Helen calls from the bathroom doorway, her kind smile softening the worry lines around her eyes.

"Almost," I reply, adjusting a few of the bobby pins in my hair before turning to face her. "How do I look?"

"Stunning." Tears glisten in her eyes as she comes over and takes my hands.

"Thanks," I say, leaning in for a quick hug. "I couldn't have done all this without you."

"Of course, dear. Now, let's go join your beautiful bride-to-be."

We make our way to the elegantly decorated room, where Jemma waits with Izzy by her side. The sight of her takes my breath away – her blonde hair cascading down her back, her brown eyes sparkling with excitement and a touch of nervousness.

"Wow," I whisper, unable to tear my gaze away from her. "You look amazing."

"Thank you," she replies, dipping her head as her cheeks flush pink. "You look incredible too. I still can't believe we're doing this."

"Me neither," I admit, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "But we've come this far, and no matter what happens, we'll face it together."

"Absolutely," Jemma beams as she squeezes my hand, and we turn toward the doors leading to the courtyard to make our grand entrance.

Our guests have already begun to arrive by the time we step outside. The tension in the air is palpable, but we're determined to maintain a positive atmosphere.

"Thank you for coming," I say to one of Jemma's aunts, embracing her tightly. "It means so much to us."

"Of course, dear," she replies, returning the hug. "I wouldn't miss it for the world."

As we continue making the rounds, I can't help but notice the empty seat at the head table – Ethan's place. I glance around the courtyard, but he's nowhere to be found. And, as ashamed as I feel even thinking about it, a part of me is relieved. I know how much his relationship with Jemma means to her, but more than anything, I just want this to be a fun, drama-free night.

Laughter and the clink of glasses fill the air as our friends and family mingle beneath the fairy lights strung above our heads. I can't help but smile at Jemma's eyes twinkling with mirth as she talks animatedly with her cousin.

But suddenly, an uneasy hush falls over the room, drawing my attention to the entrance where Ethan stands, his tall frame rigid and imposing. He surveys the scene while making a point to avoid eye contact with me. For a moment, my heart sinks as the weight of his presence threatens to shatter the joyful atmosphere we've worked so hard to create. But Jemma, ever the ray of sunshine, seems unfazed by her brother's late arrival.

"Hey, Ethan," she calls out, her voice soft but steady. "I'm glad you could make it.

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