Page 77 of Theirs to Corrupt

“If you don’t mind, I’d like to take a few photos.”

“I’ll get out of here,” Natalie says.

“No, no.” Marcella shakes her head. “These are your memories, Tessa. I’m sure you’d like a few snaps with your friend.”

“I would.”

She gets several candids of me and Nat. Then she reviews them before nodding. “Thanks. They’re great.”

“Now I’ll get going.” Natalie gives me a quick hug. “I wish you a lifetime of happiness.”

“Thank you.” I have no real idea what that means. Since that awful event in the parking lot, I’ve been focused only on the next moment.

“I need to get to my seat. I promised David I wouldn’t leave him all alone.”

“I’m looking forward to meeting him.”

Marcella goes into work mode, posing me several different ways, standing, sitting, gazing into a mirror, sipping a mimosa.

Once more, she reviews her work. “These are what I was looking for.” She smiles. “Link’s a lucky man. See you in there.”

I’ve barely exhaled when the door opens again, and Link barges in.

Dressed in a tailored tuxedo, he’s glorious. Devilishly handsome and oh-so addicting.

“It’s bad luck to see the bride before the wedding,” I manage, even as my pulse races.

“I’ll take my chances.”

A minute ago, I was nervous, but now I’m swept up in him.

In several confident strides, he crosses to me, and he captures my shoulders.

“No fucking way was I waiting another minute to see you.” With that, he sweeps his gaze over me.

His riveting blue eyes are filled with adoration.

Or maybe I’m making that up.

But right now, I don’t care if I am.

“You’re stunning,” he murmurs, leaning in.

“Don’t wreck my makeup,” I warn. “I’ve spent four hours trying to look pretty for you.”

“Little dove, to light up the world, you just have to be in a room.”

Does he always know the right thing to say?

He looks back at the Hawkeye agent. “Leave us, please.”

“Wait!”

She stops and looks back at me. “Ma’am?”

“Take some brownies.”

“Some…?” She shakes her head. “I’m on duty.”