Page 16 of Willow
10
WILLOW
Today’s the day.The day that Lucas Knight ties the knot. It even sounds funny rolling around in my brain. Never did I ever think he’d find true love and settle down. Not that he’s a bad guy, it’s just that he was a sex addict before Abby came along. I’m happy he found his muse and that I get to be a part of their forever.
I’m also grateful that she gave Beth an ultimatum. Be nice or don’t bother coming to the wedding. That girl is just plain nasty, and coming from me, that’s huge. I usually get along with everyone! I’m not vindictive, and if she’s there I plan on avoiding her at all costs. It would be wise on her part to do the same. I’m sure Beth will be on her best behavior, because this is one wedding she won’t want to miss.
Before leaving, I give myself a once over. Just to check my makeup and such. I never like what I see. My lips are too full, my forehead is wide, and my cheeks are too plump. I might be able to cover up my imperfections. Bone structure, not so much. Sighing, I walk into my bedroom. Grabbing my gown, shoes, and purse, I’m ready to head to the venue when Mom stops me.
“Is someone picking you up, or do you need a ride?” Lately, Mom isn’t with the program.
“Trevor’s picking me up since we’re all getting dressed at Caleb’s. Thanks for offering.” I’m a little put out since she was invited and declined the invitation. My friends have never been on her top ten. “Got to run, Trevor’s here.”
Trevor hasn’t stopped talking since I got in the car. He’s rambling on and on and I haven’t heard a word he said. My mind’s occupied with a million other things. Caleb being on the top of the list. My god, the man oozes authority, charisma, and sexiness all rolled into one. He seduces me with a stare, a touch, or a kiss. Whether their seductive and slow or passionate and needy. I’m the total opposite. I’m so socially awkward that I crack jokes just to keep the flow of conversation going. It’s so annoying. Why he’s attracted to me is a mystery.
I’m different from most girls. I never believed in fairy tales and happily-ever-afters. I was a tomboy growing up, if I’m being truthful, I still am. I’d rather be wearing a pair of tattered old jeans with a t-shirt than a fancy dress with pumps, like today. My dad was thrilled, my mom not so much. I swear it’s why we butt heads to this day. I’m not pretty enough, or feminine enough for her taste.
“Willow, have you been listening?” Not a word.
“Sorry, I’m a little preoccupied at the moment. Weddings are right up there with funerals. We hate going to both of them, but we don’t have a choice.” That sounded horrible.
Sorry, not sorry.
“I know this is hard for you and I sympathize, but this is Lucas and Abby’s special day. They’d be heartbroken if they knew how you felt.” Way to make me feel guilty.
“They’ll never know because I’m going to put on my happy face.” I don’t add, “Like I always do.” No one can possibly know how I feel unless they’ve walked in my shoes. And since that’s impossible, I carry my grief around with me in the form of a locket. A constant reminder of what I lost.
The only thing that’s going to make this day bearable is Caleb. I know, I know. I sound like a broken record but it’s the god’s honest truth. When I’m around him, I feel comfortable in my own skin. No judgment, no people-pleasing. I can just be myself and he likes me anyway. I didn’t think there was anyone else on this planet, other than my posse, who would. Crazy, I know, but why he’s attracted to me is anyone’s guess.
“Willow, get your head in the game. We’re here.” Oh, right. We have a wedding to attend.
I’m in awe as Trevor drives down the long, winding path to Caleb’s villa. It’s a two-story Mediterranean with white stucco walls, red tiled roof, and large windows. It’s the most beautiful home I’ve ever seen, and I haven’t had the grand tour yet. There are so many arbors, gazebos, and flower-lined pathways scattered about the lush green lawn. The wedding photographer is going to have a field day with this luxurious home. If this were mine, I’d be a happy camper and I still haven’t seen the inside yet.
“Wow, this house is crazy. How much do you think Caleb paid for it? Four million?” I want to say “Easy,” but I don’t get the chance when Trevor pulls under the awning where the valets wait patiently for the guests to arrive. They kindly open our doors.
“Welcome to theVilla Rosa. Are you a guest or a member of the wedding party?” We don’t get the chance to answer when the man of the house does that for us.
“Why didn’t you use the limo I sent over?” Limo? Oh, I’m so going to give my cousin a piece of my mind when this day is over. He knows I’m angry when he glares at Caleb in retaliation.
* * *
CALEB
Weddings are notmy thing.They rank right up there with funerals. I’m doing it for Lucas since my normal Saturday consists of hanging out with my girls. My only consolation is I get to see Willow and hold her in my arms.
Since the paparazzi was having a field day with where the destination wedding was taking place, I offered to have it at my villa on the lake. It’s private, quiet, and security’s top notch. I’ve also picked up the tab. It’s my wedding present to the both of them. One less thing for them to have to worry about.
They all should be arriving soon. Cadence and my mom are at the main house. I only use this one for entertaining large groups. It takes a big payroll to keep up with a place like this, but worth it in the end. I love coming here with Cadence in the summertime. It’s so serene.
Sia, the wedding coordinator, has been outside preparing the venue for hours. I should head outside to give it a look just to make sure it’s perfect. It’s a beautiful day for a wedding.
“Mr. Morris, we’re just about finished. I hope it’s to your liking.” I won’t answer until I’ve looked around. Even if I wasn’t paying for it, I’d still make sure it’s perfect. A wedding is a lifetime.
“You’ve outdone yourself, Sia. Everything’s perfect, and I’m sure Abby and Lucas will love it.” She can’t thank me enough as I head back inside.
The wedding party’s just starting to arrive. It’s perfectly orchestrated since the bride and groom can’t see one another. From what I’ve heard, that’s about the only tradition these two have kept. Everything else was squashed. Lucas and Abby are not a traditional kind of couple by any means. I don’t blame them one bit. Rules are meant to be broken, and if anyone will break them it’s Lucas.
I step out the front door to greet the guests when I do a double take. Willow steps out of Trevor’s car. What the hell? They should have used the limo I sent! My hands are clenched at my sides, and all I can do is stare at the beautiful creature in front of me. She’s dressed in jeans, a t-shirt, and sandals, but that’s not why I’m mesmerized. Her hair is in an upsweep and those full pouty lips are all that I can see. My god, she’s breathtaking when she’s full on display. Normally, her hair is down and it’s a gorgeous thick black mane, but this is exquisite. In a few short strides, I’m at her side.