Page 54 of Theirs to Corrupt

“Fuck no.”

“No chance,” Link grits out.

Stunning me, thefuckcame from Pax.

“You’re not wearing black to our wedding.” Link’s voice is deadly calm.

I exhale. “The dress is beautiful. Elegant.” He’d said so himself.

Eyes darkened with determination, Link turns to Nora. “Can you give us a recommendation?” he asks, as if I never opened my mouth.

“Is there a budget I would need to be considerate of?”

“Yes.”

“No.” Link’s authoritative voice overlays mine.

“Lumière Bridal Atelier. It’s near the Shops at Crystals, if you’re familiar? A private entrance.”

“I am.” He nods to Pax, who excuses himself, moving to the far end of the room, facing away from us.

She gives us the address and directions for ringing the bell. “They will stay up all night if needed for alterations. Eloise offers concierge services, meaning she’ll have the gown delivered when it’s ready and help your bride prepare. Shall I make an appointment for you?”

“We’ll be there in…” Link glances at Pax.

“Twenty to thirty minutes,” he replies, rejoining us.

Did I really think I could win many battles against Link? He’s a force of nature.

“I’ll need a tuxedo,” Pax informs Nora.

Link frowns. “You didn’t bring one?”

“Tried it on last night.” He shrugs. “Jacket’s a little tight in the shoulders.”

“Ah.”

“We have an excellent shop in-house,” Nora replies. “Vestiture Luxe on the lobby level.”

“Wait.” The meeting is ending, and I’m swept up in their millions of decisions. “Don’t you have a women’s clothing place here also?” Surely I’m not the first woman who has come to Vegas needing a dress on short notice.

“We do.” Nora nods. “One that’s very high-end. I’m certain you could find something suitable.”

Link turns to me. His eyes aren’t just dark now. There’s a glint in his eye that sends skitters down my spine.

Then he looks back at Nora. “Make the appointment.” His tone is flat and allows for no argument.

“Of course, Mr. Merritt.” Then she sweeps her gaze over all of us. “Before you leave, do you have an officiant?”

“Elvis is fine with me,”I almost say.

“No,” Link replies.

“We have one available for you, if you’d like.”

“Someone who is amenable to… A ratherunconventionalarrangement.”

“A…?” Her gaze takes all of us in.