Page 74 of Theirs to Corrupt

He’s as demanding as Link, and yet totally different at the same time.

A few minutes later, I’m walking down the aisle toward them, and they look at me expectantly, even though it’s just practice.

The reverend says, “At the end I’ll pronounce you married. Would you like me to announce the reception?”

Nora responds. “It’ll be in the Sky Ballroom.”

“Perfect. At that point, I’ll introduce you to the guests as Mr. and Mrs. Merritt, if that’s okay?”

I haven’t even considered whether to change my name or not.

“That’s fine,” Link replies, a possessive growl in his voice, as if daring anyone to contradict him.

If it’s a battle I want to fight, I’ll do it later.

“And then you can make your way back up the aisle.”

“Will you be having a receiving line?” Nora asks.

“Yes.”

Link seems to want every single piece of a traditional wedding ceremony. I’d be okay without any of them.

After we wrap up, Link tells me he’s arranged for me to enjoy a spa day. “Facial, massage, manicure, pedicure.”

“I’ve actually never had any of those.”

“First of many.”

Mira and Torin are off for several hours since they’ll be providing security all night. And I’m introduced to two female agents who will be in the spa with me.

“Unobtrusively,” Pax adds.

If that’s possible.

I’m treated to an amazing, relaxing massage with hot stones, easing tension from my shoulders and neck.

Hours later, I’ve had a light lunch, my fingernails are buffed and shaped, and my toes are painted a pale shade of pink. Thecolor is neutral enough to go with my shoes and wedding dress, but it will also complement the sundresses Link bought me.

Afterward I take my host’s suggestion and head for the private pool. I’m the only one there, so I snag one of the cabanas and stretch out on a luxuriously padded chaise.

I’m wrapped in one of the spa’s robes, eyes closed beneath the overhead fan. Because of it and the palm trees, the temperature feels perfect, relaxing.

“Champagne, ma’am?”

I open my eyes to see Link standing there, a glass of bubbly in hand.

Pushing myself up on my elbows, I look at him. “What are you doing here?”

“Making sure everything’s okay.”

“Perfect. Thank you for today.” Otherwise I might have spent the entire afternoon worrying, pacing, a bundle of nerves.

He places the glass on a table next to me, alongside the glass of water that has cucumber floating in it. I have to admit, the bubbly sounds much more appealing.

As he turns to leave, he bends to drop a kiss on my lips.

In that instant, all the memories from last night flood back, leaving me breathless.