Thorned Embrace by Raine Winters

Author:Raine Winters [Winters, Raine]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Raine Winters
Published: 2024-03-22T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER ELEVEN

MY HANDS TWIST nervously in my lap. Out of the corner of my eye, I watch the front door. I’m trying not to watch it directly, because I don’t want to seem overly eager. Abby and Raven should be here any minute, and each moment that passes, the nerves coursing through me grow stronger.

I know I have no reason to be nervous. Abby loved the way the flowers turned out at her engagement party. So today should be no different.

But, for me, it feels like today is the real test of my abilities. A test of whether I can blend our visions for the wedding. The vision of what Abby sees in her head, and what I can bring into reality. This is the moment she could back out. And the fact that Raven will be here makes me even more nervous.

These are the girls I always wanted as friends, but was too shy to even try. They weren’t mean, they never made me feel like I was unwelcome. I just never took that step. After high school, I used to have a lot of regret about not trying harder to make friends, but I tried to move past it. And with this opportunity standing right in front of me again, I’m worried I’m going to choke. I don’t want to miss out on this again.

The engagement party was a tremendous step in the right direction. When Abby asked me to stay, it was genuine. She wanted me there.

The bell jingles, and I jump to my feet. My heart thuds in my ear as Raven steps through the doorway first, Abby following closely behind her. Their conversation stops as soon as they enter, and a blush rises to my cheeks as they take in my shop for the first time.

I have nothing to be nervous about; I love being in my shop more than anywhere else. It’s my haven from the outside world. But an insecure part of me can’t help but worry that they won’t like it.

Raven’s eyes land on me, giving a small nod of acknowledgment my way.

“Hi guys, welcome.” The words stick in my throat.

Abby spins to face me. “Lilly! Why didn’t you tell me your shop was absolutely adorable? And that name, it’s perfect!”

A nervous laugh bubbles in my chest. Am I actually supposed to answer that?

“I’m so glad you could make it. I’m excited to go over the plans for the ceremony and reception.” I motion to the two seats opposite me, and the girls move to take their places.

My gaze shifts nervously between them. As they sit, the need to fill the silence overwhelms me. “Raven, I’m glad you could join us.”

The corner of her lips tilt in what I assume is a smile.

“I didn’t realize you had a flower shop in town.” Her gaze shifts around the room as she takes the space in again, her eyes linger on a vase of sunflowers near the table. She notices my gaze following hers and her eyes snap back to me.

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