Chapter 48, part 3

"Or I will," a young man said and stood up.

"Or I will," said someone else.

"Or I will," someone else cried out.

"Or I will"

More young men continued to offer.

"What's going on?" Skye asked, confused. She looked at the young men who had risen from their seats among the rest of the guests and then over at Hector, hoping for an explanation.

Her palms began to sweat as she considered whether she was expected to kiss all of them.

No! That was out of the question.

She looked inward and blinked rapidly.

Hector sensed her unease and hastened to reassure her.

"It's not what you think. It is simply a playful tradition between the clans we're on amicable terms with, and it only takes effect when there's a delay in the groom kissing the bride. They will continue until I kiss you."

She felt her mouth go dry. "Th-then kiss me." Skye said.

Hector smiled, hugging the side of her neck and gently pulling her towards him until their lips met. His lips pressed hers in an unspoken promise.

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