Page 70 of Perfect Guy
Madelyn
Ilovewhenmy entire family is together. Seeing all of us celebrate Wilder and Hallie’s upcoming wedding is making me emotional. Normally, things like this don’t affect me, but I admit that since I started dating Canaan, I’ve become more of a softy. He’s brought it out of me.
We’re all together tonight at Pony Up after each group—men and women—celebrated and had dinner in different houses. The energy at the bar is pumped. Others from town have joined the celebration, buying Wilder and Hallie drinks, congratulating them, and adding to the camaraderie.
Jase wraps his arm around me, swaying a bit. “I’m happy I’m here for this.”
“We are, too.” I tap his arm hanging from my shoulder. “Maybe you could have some water.”
He snorts and tips his bottle back, frowning. “It’s empty.”
“Perfect, water it is.”
While I’ve had some drinks, I hate getting pissed drunk. I’d rather be aware of what’s going on and help anyone who needs it. Losing control like that has never been something I’ve enjoyed.
I head to the bar and order a cup of water for him. He’ll thank me tomorrow. Out on the dance floor, Wilder and Hallie are dancing, as are Levi and Camille. Cole and Joey are talking to Joy, Brayden, and Caleb. Grady and Charlee are off somewhere. If this is a preview of the wedding, then we’re bound to have an amazing time.
I only wish Canaan were here, but I respect his work and the love he has for helping people. I’ll see him tomorrow after I have lunch with my family. Hallie’s parents are here, so we’re having a big meal with her family and mine.
“Come on.” Joy drags me out to the dance floor.
I laugh as I begin dancing the steps to the line dance. Tucker is singing “Sweet Home Alabama,” and everyone has joined in.
I pull out my phone when the song ends and type a quick message to Canaan.
Madelyn: Miss you. Be safe
Canaan: Miss you too. If you guys drink too much, don’t drive. Call someone
Madelyn: Promise xo
Canaan: *kiss emoji*
I pocket my phone, smiling to myself. At times it feels like it’s too soon to have these feelings for Canaan, but when I see him or talk to him or even think about him, my entire insides are filled with overwhelming joy. I’ve never been in love—besides silly teen “love,” that is—so I’m not sure if that’s what I’m feeling. It feels darn close to it, though.
“Hey, sis.” Wilder bumps his shoulder with mine. His hair is slicked back, and his face is red and sweaty from dancing.
“Hey, are you having fun?” I smile up at him.
“Yeah. My body is going to complain come tomorrow, but I’m glad we all got together like this.”
“You see…a bachelor party isn’t all that bad.” I lift my brow.
“This is more of a celebration with friends than a bachelor party. I didn’t care for all the other stuff.” He looks over at Hallie. “And I wanted to share it with her.”
I smile, patting his chest. He’s so in love with Hallie; it’s kind of funny to watch. For years, Wilder was closed off, grumpy. He would barely show emotion. Then, he met Hallie, and poof…he came back to himself. I’m so happy he has her in his life.
“I’m glad you got to celebrate the way you wanted.”
He nods, an easy smile on his face. “Let’s get a drink.”
We walk to the bar and order two beers. Hallie joins us, leaning into Wilder. Grady and Cole come closer with Charlee and Joey. We talk for a long time as we sip our drinks and listen to the music.
Hallie giggles at one point, and we all look at her.
“Have you ever thought that you two,” she points her finger between Cole and Grady, “are cousins and fell in love with sisters?” Her question lingers a second while we all look at her with confusion.
“And…” she continues. “You two are siblings,” she points to Wilder and me. “You’re with Canaan and me, and we’re both cousins.” She chuckles. “And the four of you are cousins.” Her giggles turn to laughter.