Chapter 25

I followed Ethan’s advice but instead of the brooch he suggested, I went with a large veil covered in small cream colored flower details that went perfectly with the dress. By the end of the evening Grace was dabbing at her eyes, pure joy written on her face. I found myself sharing in her excitement too. I was getting married.

Several times I would catch myself admiring the full look in the mirror, and picturing what

Ethan’s face would be like if he saw me. As soon as I noticed, I would shut the thought down. The lines between reality and out pretend marriage was blurring quickly. “It’s becoming harder to keep my hands off you”. I looked around guiltily like I suspected everyone could see my thoughts written on my face

With my dress packed up for the reveal for my parents, I left to find Gideon to take me home. I found two men standing outside his car when I got to him.

“Goodday, Miss Ricci.” The dark skinned man said, stretching a calloused hand to me. “My name is Hakeem, and thi