Page 146 of Even Ground

“Pandas are cute.”

“I still don’t want to look like one.” I laugh.

“Would you like to me to say something completely sexually inappropriate to make you laugh instead?” He grins.

“No. Just help me with my dress.”

I slip it on over my head and it cascades down my body. I shiver when Reece’s warm breath tickles the skin on my exposed back as he zips it up. His touch sets me alight.

“Are you cold?” he whispers as his lips brush the nape of my neck.

“No, quite the opposite.”

For a moment, I just stare at myself in the mirror. I tried it on as I was making it, but it’s not the same as wearing it out for a big event like this. The bodice hugs my curves, the sweetheart neckline making my boobs look much better than they do in most of my other clothes. The tulle is layered on the full skirt.

It makes me think of dresses worn by Disney Princesses.

The jewellery box clicks behind me and Reece’s hands are warm on my shoulders as he connects the clasp of Delaney’s necklace.

She was right. The diamond sparkles like the skirt does.

“I remember telling Delaney on her wedding day that she could put these in because I didn’t want to tear a lobe. So, I’m giving these to you to put in yourself.” He laughs and offers me a much smaller box.

“Thank you.”

I switch out my earrings in front of the mirror and turn to see Reece, his arms open wide.

“That dragon lady has no idea what she’s missing out on. She needs you so much more than you need her.”

I place a hand on his chest. “You’re the best. Anyone ever tell you that?”

“The only one who ever mattered was you.”

He offers me his arm, and I take it.

In the living room, Delaney wears a dress I made her a year or so ago. It’s lavender chiffon with a high waist, gathered at the top with crossover shoulder straps. I made it so she could wear it during her pregnancy if she had to.

She squeals when I walk into the room. Her eyes fill with tears, and she claps.

“Pania.” Melly gasps. “You look like a starry sky.”

I bend, opening my arms and she runs over to hug me. “That’s exactly the look I’m going for.”

“I’m staying to babysit Addison.” She puffs out her chest. “I’m being responsible.”

I chuckle. “You are, my sweet girl. I’m so proud of you.”

She kisses my cheek, and then I straighten up and take Reece’s offered arm again.

“Shall we go?”

I grin. “Yes.”

Leaving Delaney and Josh behind to say goodbye to their children, Reece leads me downstairs and into a waiting limo. We’re doing this whole thing in style.

He grips my hand tight as we sit and wait for the other two.

“I know you’re nervous, but I’m right here.”