Smitten

by Colleen Coble

  Natalie’s shop had been bustling as well, and there were similar reports from other business owners, all of whom were working hard to please the tourists.

  The media had arrived in full force that afternoon, and Carson, Sawyer, and Mia had been busy granting interviews. Cameramen stood on street corners, media vans clogged Main Street, and there’d been nothing but rave reviews so far from the guests. Smitten seemed to be on its way to a successful future.

  Thank you, Jesus. You’ve been so good to us.

  Natalie dragged the lipstick across her lower lip, tugging. “Wait till you see Mia in her flower girl dress. Oh my goodness. So adorable.”

  “I’ll bet she looks like a little princess.”

  “She does. And Carson . . . well, let’s just say he’s not looking so bad in his tux.”

  “I’ll take your word for it.”

  Natalie leaned back, assessing her work, and gave a final nod.

  “Now the dress.” Natalie capped the lipstick, then took the garment from Reese’s bedroom door.

  They’d spent four painful hours at the boutique the previous Saturday. Reese had tried on every dress in the store, frowning at the lace and ruffles that made her feel like a little girl playing dress-up.

  Natalie handed her the dress and went to put away the makeup while Reese slipped into it.

  “Careful of your hair,” Natalie called over her shoulder.

  They’d finally settled on a satin icy pink number that hit just above the knee. The structured A-line dress, elegant in simplicity, was devoid of ruffles and lace, thank goodness. Its only adornment was a white ribbon sash that encircled the empire waistline. Reese slid her arms through the straps and clutched the bodice to her chest.

  “Zip me up?”

  Natalie bustled into the room, and moments later the dress clung to Reese’s middle, flaring gently over the curve of her hips.

  “Beautiful! I forgot what a great figure you have—buried the way it always is under yards of sweatshirt material. Put these on.” Natalie handed her the flesh-colored heels that she’d insisted would make Reese’s legs appear longer.

  She slipped them on. “Can I look now?” Reese wanted to get this over with.

  “Not yet.” Natalie handed her the matching wrap. “Here.”

  Part of her wanted to get the whole evening over with. Griffen wasn’t leaving until next week, but tonight felt very much like her last chance. It was a lot of pressure to put on a layer of makeup and some satiny material. What if it wasn’t enough? What if, no matter what she wore, no matter how she looked, Griffen only saw her as one of the guys? His best buddy?

  “Stop frowning. You look gorgeous.” Natalie grabbed Reese’s hand and tugged.

  Reese followed her to the freestanding mirror that waited in the corner of the room.

  Griffen grabbed the bouquet of flowers from the passenger seat and exited his SUV. Reese lived in a red Craftsman-style house just outside of town, in her childhood home. He couldn’t have counted the hours they’d spent shooting hoops on the court by her detached garage, or the hours shoveling snow in her neighborhood to raise some pocket cash.

  The cement walkway to her porch was cleared of snow, revealing cracks and crevices caused by burgeoning roots from nearby maple trees. He neared the porch and took the steps slowly, tugging at the tight collar of his dress shirt. He couldn’t recall being so nervous, having such mixed feelings about a date.

  On one hand, he was getting to spend time with his favorite girl. On the other, she was trying to win another man’s heart. Or had she given up, being that it was the evening of the wedding, and so far her plan seemed to have gained her nothing—hand-holding at the coffee shop notwithstanding.

  He wondered how she felt tonight at the prospect of watching the man she loved pledge his love to another.

  How do you think she feels, Parker? Hadn’t he left town t hree years ago, just so he didn’t have to endure the same? Hadn’t the thought of Sawyer and Reese’s wedding been enough to drive him from his hometown? It was reason for the tulips in his hand. He’d wanted to get her something for Valentine’s, and hoped the bouquet might make her feel special on an otherwise painful day.

  He drew a deep breath and knocked on the old door, gearing himself up for a difficult evening. She’d probably be a mess by the end of the night, but he’d be there for her. Of course he would.

  It was time for him to face facts, though. Time for him to give up the fantasy that Reese would ever return his feelings. He’d go back to Pennsylvania, back to his sparse little apartment, back to his job. Smitten was on its way to a successful future. They didn’t need him anymore.

  And neither did Reese.

  He heard movement inside. He’d better think of something to say or he’d get tongue-tied at the sight of her and say something stupid.

  Reese. You look like an angel. Stupid and corny.

  Hey, you clean up well. He gave a sharp shake of his head. Why not just give her a high five?

  Happy Valentine’s Day, pretty lady. Hmm. He tilted his head, thinking. Not bad. Casual, but complimentary. He wiped his damp palms down his pant legs.

  The door opened, and Natalie beamed at him.

  “Griffen, look at you, all dolled up!”

  She wore a blue dress, and her dark hair was caught up on her head.

  “You look great, Natalie.”

  “Thanks.” She pulled him inside and turned toward the stairway.

  Griffen followed her eyes toward the vision in pink that was descending. His jaw went slack.

  Reese. Not athletic, little buddy Reese, but stunning, womanly Reese.

  Silky curls trickled over her bare shoulders like a golden waterfall. The shimmery dress clung to her slim torso, then skimmed past her hips, stopping at the top of her knees.

  His eyes strayed back to her face. She looked softer, more delicate. Her eyes took center stage. He’d never seen them so bright and sparkly.

  His heart marched up into his throat and rendered him speechless.

  She reached the bottom of the steps and stood, her small hand gripping the boxed newel post.

  Say something, Parker.

  “Reese . . .” Brilliant, you know her name.

  What was that line again? He swallowed, a joke since his throat was as dry as a plate of sawdust, then remembered the flowers in his hand. Valentine’s Day.

  Smiling, he held them out. “Happy Valentine’s Day, pretty lady.”

  Her eyes smiled first, then spread to her lips. “You rehearsed that.”

  “I did.”

  “I’ll forgive you since you brought me tulips.” She took the flowers from him. “My favorite. Thanks.”

  He couldn’t seem to take his eyes off her. “But I have to admit my line seems woefully short of reality. You look . . . wow, Reese.”

  She looked down at the tulips, a pretty blush blooming on her cheeks. “Thank you. You’re looking pretty dapper yourself.”

  Natalie appeared, buttoning her coat. “I’m going to run now. Oooh, pretty flowers.” She gave Reese a wink. “See you two at the chapel.”

  After Natalie left, Reese found a vase in a kitchen cupboard.

  Griffen took the opportunity to look her over one more time. He could probably span her tiny waist with his hands if she ever let him that close. Reese was so strong and capable, he forgot how small she was sometimes.

  She set the flowers on the table, then turned, tugging her lower lip with her teeth. He reminded himself that she had a difficult night ahead.

  He squeezed her hand and found it cold. “You okay?”

  When she nodded, Griffen helped her on with her coat and escorted her to his SUV. His heart thumped so loudly on the drive to the chapel, he wondered if she could feel the vibrations.

  The church was bustling with activity. Lit from within, the stained-glass windows burst with color. They used the valet parking and entered the chapel behind a couple Griffen recognized from TV. The media were there, he knew, t
ucked away in the balcony as requested by the bride and groom.

  They presented their invitations to security and moved forward into the sanctuary. The pews were already packed, but there was still room near the back.

  “Wow,” Reese whispered.

  He followed her eyes to the front of the sanctuary. A white liner led down the center aisle to a candlelit altar covered with sprays of white and purple flowers. Swaths of silver fabric draped from the ceiling beams creating a soft, romantic look.

  They took their seats on the aisle near the back and waited for the ceremony to begin. The Garner Sisters played at the corner of the stage, something slow and heartfelt. Someone must’ve dressed them, because the women were clothed in neutral shades of champagne, even Violet, though her red hair and lipstick stood out like a shining beacon.

  Beside him, Reese fidgeted with her bracelet. She had to be hurting. He wished he had the words to comfort her. Instead, he gathered his courage and put his arm around her. Comfort. He was only trying to comfort her.

  She looked up at him with wide eyes that looked vulnerable and afraid. Without thinking, he pulled her into his side. She settled there, his little Reese, with a soft sigh.

  A moment later, the parents were seated. When the song ended, there was a brief pause while Sawyer and Carson, in their tuxes, shuffled out at the front.

  The procession began with the melodic strains of the strings. The bridesmaids, clothed in silver dresses, glided down the aisle on the groomsmen’s arms. After them, Mia appeared in the doorway, clutching a miniature bouquet. Her skirt was a white cloud, dotted with tiny purple flowers. The crowd’s sigh was audible and quickly followed by a rapid fire of camera clicks from the side balcony. Mia reached into the basket and scattered what looked like a handful of sparkly snowflakes.

  “Look,” Reese whispered. “She’s wearing a lavender wreath.”

  Sure enough, a delicate wreath topped the girl’s curly hair. The little girl with a big faith had captured the hearts of America.

  When Mia reached the front, there was a pause as the song ended. A shuffling sounded in the doorway behind them, then the familiar strains of the “Wedding March” began. The crowd rose to its feet. Griffen and Reese followed.

  Kate Owens appeared in the doorway, draped in an elaborate white gown. Her shining eyes and wide smile were trained straight ahead. She began walking, and the guests turned as she passed them. Regardless of the press, of the crowded sanctuary, it was clear Kate only had eyes for Sawyer. The groom, likewise, only had eyes for his bride.

  When she reached the front, the pastor instructed them to be seated. He began talking, and Griffen realized he was building to the question. How had he forgotten about the question?

  “We are gathered here today to celebrate one of life’s most memorable moments, to recognize the gift of love, and to ask God’s blessing on the unity of Sawyer and Kate in holy matrimony.”

  Reese wouldn’t speak out. Would she? But hadn’t that been one of the reasons he’d left before? Hadn’t he been afraid that, in some weak and foolish moment, he’d blurt out his feelings and ruin Reese’s special day?

  Had she been devising a secret plan to announce her feelings for Sawyer today with all the world watching?

  “Should there be anyone who has cause why this couple should not be united in holy matrimony, they must speak now or forever hold their peace.”

  The silence was sudden and sharp, like the crack of a whip. It was her last chance, and he prayed she wouldn’t take it. He felt for her hand and gathered it in his own as if he could will her to let the moment pass. Her palm was cool and clammy. Her fingers twitched, and he tightened his grip. Don’t do it, Reese. Don’t do it.

  “Who brings this woman to this man?”

  Griffen expelled a breath he didn’t realize he’d held. He glanced down at Reese. Her eyes were straight ahead, her jaw set. He imagined how he’d feel if he were witnessing Reese and Sawyer becoming one flesh, and his heart twisted. His poor little Reese. He would take the pain and make it his own if he could. He squeezed her hand, willing his strength to pass into her.

  CHAPTER THIRTEEN

  The reception was held in the beautiful Sugarcreek Ski Lodge, located ten minutes outside Smitten. Reese surveyed the lofted space from her seat at the table.

  It didn’t look remotely like the room she’d sat in with Griffen a month earlier after they’d given Sawyer his ski lesson. The lodge had been transformed into a winter wonderland. White lights dangled from the wooden trusses like twinkling icicles. Sprays of flowers anchored round tables that were covered in shimmering silver, and great clusters of white-painted branches flanked the stone walls.

  Dinner had been served, the towering cake had been cut, the bridal bouquet thrown, and now guests danced on the parquet floor to the celebratory strains of the band. The media people had left, rushing to meet their deadlines. Tomorrow’s papers and news programs would be littered with news of the celebrity wedding.

  Reese scanned the crowd for her friends. On the dance floor, Carson held Mia in his arms and danced with Natalie at the same time. No doubt they were dreaming of the day they would become a family. With the adoption being finalized in a few short weeks and their summer wedding approaching, it wouldn’t be long. The couple had come so far from the antagonistic relationship they’d shared a year ago. Natalie looked so happy, her cheeks flushed, her eyes sparkling. Reese was glad for her.

  A short distance away she spotted Shelby and Nick, gliding across the floor gracefully. The couple had eyes only for each other. Shelby had managed to talk Nick into a suit and a clean shave, and the way he was holding her, she didn’t think he was going to let go anytime soon. If Reese’s hunch was right, a proposal wouldn’t be long in coming. Grace surely did cover a multitude of sins. Those two were proof of what happened when unconditional love stepped in.

  She searched the crowd again and finally found Julia and Zak sitting by the enormous fireplace, their heads close together in conversation. Julia tossed her head back, laughing, and Zak ran his finger inside his collar, tugging. So different, those two, and yet so perfect together. Reese shook her head, amazed by the power of love and the unexpected blessings that God sent into her friends’ lives.

  The crowd on the dance floor applauded, drawing Reese’s attention. Sawyer twirled his bride, then drew her into his arms with a great flourish. Reese thought back to the new song he’d sung during the ceremony. The whole chapel had seemed to melt. The lyrics to “Smitten” were lovely, the melody haunting, and somehow he’d written the words so you couldn’t tell if he was singing about his woman or his hometown. But there was no doubt as he sang it tonight that the words were for his bride alone.

  The words rang in Reese’s ears even now.

  I’m just gonna say it

  Gonna lay my heart,

  There on the line

  Every time I wrap my arms around you

  Whisper in your ear, I realize

  That I’m smitten

  Oh, I’m smitten

  Yes I’m smitten

  By your love.

  Kate had dabbed her eyes after he sang the last romantic words, and she wasn’t the only one. Reese had no doubt the song was going to hit the charts upon its release.

  Reese propped her chin on her palm and watched the newlyweds longingly. It wasn’t that she wasn’t happy for Sawyer. It was that she longed for that kind of love—the kind that was returned. Why had God let these feelings develop if Griffen wasn’t going to return them?

  He loved her, she didn’t doubt that. But there was a vast difference between loving a friend and being thoroughly, well, smitten. It hurt to be the one who loved more. She wondered if God felt this way. After all, our love for you really can’t measure up to your extravagant love for us. I’m sorry, God. Let me love you like you love me. Make me smitten.

  Griffen appeared at her side with her drink and dropped into his chair. They were the only two left at the circular table.
r />   “Thanks,” she said.

  When he followed her eyes to the dance floor, she peeked at him through her lashes. A shadow flickered over his jaw as he watched the bride and groom dancing.

  A moment later, he turned back to her. “I’m sorry things didn’t work out the way you wanted.”

  His eyes were all melty, and she pulled hers away before she got sucked in. “I’ll be fine.” She threw in a brave smile for good measure.

  She didn’t want to talk about Sawyer Smitten and her supposed pathetic crush. “Hey, at least the town’s going to make it, huh? The influx from the weekend will fill the coffers back up for that advertising campaign Carson wants to launch.”

  From the corner of her eye she saw him nod.

  “Sure, sure. And your shop’s going to do great. I’m proud of you, throwing it all on the line that way. I know it wasn’t easy for you.”

  He did know her, better than anyone else, in fact. And yet, she had this secret thing she didn’t dare tell him.

  A lump grew in her throat. “Yeah, well, couldn’t have done it without you, buddy.” She winced. Why did she say that? That was the last thing she wanted him to think.

  There was a pause as the song ended, then the band struck up a new tune. The lead singer lifted the microphone and crooned the words, “Someday . . . when I’m awfully low . . .”

  She listened a moment, the poignancy of the words not lost on her.

  Griffen leaned back in his chair and his thigh brushed hers, sending a flash of heat through her.

  “I’ve decided to leave tomorrow,” he said.

  Her eyes flew to his, her stomach dropping somewhere in the vicinity of her ankles. “What? I thought you were leaving next week.”

  “I was, but . . . I think I’ll get an earlier start.”

  The hands of the ticking clock whirled forward, erasing hours, days. This couldn’t be happening. “What’s the rush?”

  He looked toward the dance floor, shrugging. “My work here is done, you know?”