Page 60 of One More Chance

Jensen

All day,I’ve wait for this moment. Granted, I’m not the one getting married. Not even close. But I’m standing here in this navy suit, right at the edge of the first aisle, looking down it just like everyone else, and I’m waiting. But I’m not waiting for Lyla. No. That guy off to my left with tears brimming his eyes is waiting for that honor. Not that Lyla isn’t hot, because she totally is. At the moment though, I only have eyes for one Whitney sister. I’m the guy waiting for the other woman walking down the aisle.

My sister clears me, and then I see her. The long gray dress falls from her hips, the perfect amount of curve and sophistication. I want to run my fingers over the thin straps that hug her clavicles. Her shoulder length locks are twisted into soft waves and pinned back loosely into a bun with flowers. Her makeup is wedding makeup, that flawless look you only find after the professionals have been through. She’s a vision, so breathtaking. I swallow hard as I grip the back of the chair.

Her eyes catch mine as she nears, and she smiles a secret little smile just for me. My eyes follow her as she steps around in front of me to the left. I turn back to watch Lyla, only because this day is about her and she deserves the next five minutes of my attention. For what it’s worth, from what I know of them, she and Gentry seem perfect for each other and I’m glad they’re getting their day. It so rarely happens like this for people anymore.

The ceremony is typical. The pastor walks them through their vows and exchange of rings. When they kiss, I wiggle my eyebrows at Harper who’s been looking at me more than them.

Everyone proceeds out after the couple, for cocktails on the lawn while the tent is transformed for the reception. It’s hard to believe what these catering companies can do in such little time, but when we step back in, the space is completely remodeled, complete with a dance floor, small stage, and dinner tables lining the area. A DJ is set up on stage alongside a microphone and my guitar. It’s almost showtime for me, but first I have to get a moment with Harper. In fact, I’m dying for it. The bridal party was swept away for photos during cocktail hour, and if I don’t speak to her soon, I may actually shrivel up on the floor. Exaggerate much, Jensen?

“Hey, you,” Harper says from behind me. I’d recognize her voice anywhere, in any crowd.

I turn and take in the sight of her up close, finally. “Oh my god, at last,” I breathe, wrapping my arms up and around her. I inhale the scent of her hair and she giggles.

“Are you okay?” She laughs.

“That was too long.”

Harper wraps her arms around my back, resting her head against my chest. “I totally agree.” Her shoulders rise and fall as she inhales deeply, sinking into our embrace.

“Can we make out yet?” I ask her.

She laughs again, and I swear to god, it’s one of my favorite sounds. “Not yet. But we can regular kiss?”

“I’ll take it.” I lean down and press my lips gently to hers, tempted to take more, knowing if I push the issue, she’ll give in to me. I slip my tongue in for just a moment and then pull back. “Is that regular enough?”

Harper sinks her teeth into her bottom lip, her eyes drifting shut. “Unfortunately.” She sighs. Her small hands are gripped onto the lapels of my suit jacket and I know she wants more.

“You’ll have to unhand me now, woman. I have to go sing,” I tell her.

“Oh, dear,” she says.

“What?”

She leans in close, pressing her lips to my ear. “I think it’s gonna make me wet,” she whispers.

I swallow hard, because suddenly there’s a lot of fucking saliva in my mouth. “Better get to it, then,” I say, pressing a quick kiss to her cheek.

I watch her saunter—yes, saunter—to her table and melt into her chair, eyes on me the entire time. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say she mentally undressed me twice over. Not that I’m complaining.

I wait at the edge of the small stage as announcements are made. The DJ welcomes Gentry and Lyla in to an eruption of applause. I clap for them, their joined hands in the air, but still my eyes trail over to Harper, who’s looking at her sister and new brother with joy on her face.

This plan of mine, while I’ve been assured by Gentry is great, is pretty bold. And while I’ve been confident in my ability to charm for a while now, there’s always a chance it can backfire. But that’s life, right? Risk for reward. Besides, Harper deserves it.

I ready myself as the DJ introduces me, shaking out my arms all the way to the tips of my fingers, pushing out the last bit of nervousness I have.

Here goes nothing.