by Deb Julienne
She ladled a spoonful over her meat. “No, just Sabrina. Well, and now you.”
“How about after dinner, I introduce you?” He licked his lips. “You’ll want to meet Kat, Jill and the rest of the family.”
“I’ve heard plenty about her friends.” Regardless of how hard she tried to push him away, he didn’t catch on. In fact, he seemed to be trying even harder, and darn it, it was starting to work. He became more attractive by the moment.
“Sabrina, Kat, and Jill have been best friends since college. They’re quite a trio.” He laughed in a way that implied their history was full of humorous memories.
“Care to share?” She was a tad jealous of how close the girls were. It had been ages since she’d had that kind of unconditional acceptance in her life.
“I’ll give you a scenario. Sabrina cares so much about people she can’t pass a person in need without trying to help and will feed a person rather than give them money. Whereas Kat would walk past and suggest they get a job, none too gently either. And Jill, she’d find them a job.” Travis laughed and shook his head.
“Kat’s beautiful, a true blond bombshell.” Angel stared at the woman. “I’m jealous of her looks and I’d kill for a body like hers. Flawless skin, and even her hair is perfect. I normally don’t care for blue eyes, but hers are gorgeous. Sort of how I imagine the waters of the Caribbean, beautiful aqua liquid pools. She makes Charlize Theron look frumpy.”
Travis guffawed. “Kat? You’re nuts.”
She nudged him then pointed at Jill, who was talking to Sabrina. “I love Jill’s hair, a beautiful combination of russet and red. She appears so happy and confident, comfortable in her own skin. Her smile is so genuine.”
Travis did a double take then gave her a bewildered look. “She’s okay, I guess.”
She almost laughed at his reaction. Angel felt so inadequate compared to them.
Travis snickered then motioned with his hand. “Kat’s my cousin. I know her beyond her beauty. She’s got looks, all right. There’s no denying it. But she can be smug and condescending. When I see Kat? I see frosty venom.”
“You must be mistaken.” Travis had to be exaggerating.
Pointing to Jill, he continued. “Jill can be fun but annoyingly snarky.” He looked Angel in the eye and sighed. “And then there’s Angel.” He covered her hand. “You’re not so shallow you can’t admit a pretty woman is in the room. You’re kind and considerate, and your candor shines. Too bad you can’t see you’re the most beautiful woman here by far.”
“Liar.” Angel had surprised herself. “You don’t know me, so how can you say that?
“Well, I do know Kat and Jill.” An appreciative grin curled his lip. “And, while I really don’t know you well, I like what I see. Besides, if it weren’t for you, Sabrina’s mom might have been hurt. And that scarf you picked up is my mother’s favorite. If it had been ruined, she’d never have forgiven herself. Kat’s mom gave it to her before she passed away.”
She had to get the subject off her and get him to back off. “Did you and Trent patch up your differences?”
He stiffened. “For the most part. We, um, we get along okay now.” There was sadness in his eyes that made him look as vulnerable as she felt.
“Meaning?”
“You know how it is. We’ll work it out.” He leaned closer. “When can I see you again?”
“How do you know I’m not a trained assassin?”
“I’ll take my chances. At least I’d die with a smile on my face.”
“Who said I was interested?”
“Maybe I can convince you. Or at the very least maybe I’ll have a chance to redeem myself from all you’ve heard.” He patted her hand then took a bite of his food.
Sabrina and Trent took center stage in front of the blazing fire, slow dancing as Nat King Cole crooned “When I Fall in Love” while the rest of the guest took their seats.
Travis picked up his spoon and clanked it against his glass, making the usual signal for the happy couple to kiss. Everyone mimicked him.
It was like a dream. Sabrina and Trent danced, ignoring everything around them. They were in love.
It left her wishful.
Wanting.
Believing in love.
“What’s the sigh about?”
“I didn’t know I did.” Angry with herself for her lack of restraint over her emotions, and embarrassed he’d heard, she shrugged and looked away.
“I didn’t realize Trent was an oldies fan.” Travis gave his brother a furtive stare.
“Me either.”
Trent was singing along with the music as he and his new wife danced.
“Geez, he even knows the words. Apparently, there’s much about my brother I don’t know. They look good together, don’t you think?” Travis sighed.
He looked as wistful as she felt. “Yes, they do. I hope he’ll be good to her.”
“He will or he’ll answer to me.” Travis puffed out his chest.
“Now you’re Sabrina’s crusader? What about when you wouldn’t bail her out of jail?” She snorted indelicately, surprised by the turn of events that caused him to defend Sabrina now.
“That was different. It was about teaching Trent a lesson.” Travis’ mouth curled up on one side.
“I beg your pardon. He was covering for your ass, so be nice. I’m rather fond of him now even if I don’t approve of how he manipulated Sabrina. And he was protecting you. Loyalty counts in my book.”
“Can we dance instead of spar?” He reached for her hand.
“No.” She tried to stare him down, hoping to discourage him.
“Not even if I say please?”
“No.”
“I’m not too proud to beg. Wait, that’s another oldies song, isn’t it?” He placed a hand on her arm. His eyes sparkled and kidnapped her ability to respond.
Usually, overconfidence was a turnoff, but on him and with his lighthearted teasing and witty commentary, it was enchanting. And she couldn’t deny his touch left her wanting more.
She held up a finger. “One dance, if you promise to stop annoying me.”
“I annoy you already? Can I promise to let you train me better?” He helped her from her chair and drew her onto the dance floor. With a flourish, he bowed and kissed the top of her hand in knightly fashion then drew her tightly into his arms.
They moved in perfect unison on the floor, swaying to the music. The Everly Brothers ballad, “All I Have to Do Is Dream,” made her wish the song would never end. She caught herself right before she laid her head on Travis shoulder. She nodded to Sabrina and Trent.
Sabrina smiled back.
Trent chuckled loud enough to draw everyone’s attention. He nodded to Travis then gave him a thumbs-up.
Angel’s cheeks grew warm. She’d been set up. “What’s that about?”
“Um—”
Angel quit dancing and pulled away. “No ums allowed. Talk now or this dance is over.” She poked his rock-hard chest. Need shuddered through her. She wanted to feel his flesh against hers. Oh God, she was in serious trouble.
“Trent suggested I get to know you. He said I’d enjoy your company.”
“Why do I get the impression that’s not exactly how that conversation went?” She folded her arms across her chest and glared. She was terrified of his answer, afraid it would bring back memories she hoped to forget.
Everyone stared at her and Travis.
He touched her arm. “Ignore them.” He gently pulled her back in his arms. “You’ll be pleasantly disappointed. Smart and beautiful is what he said. He wasn’t wrong.”
It calmed her. “I didn’t take you for Irish, but you sure have the blarney down.”
He chuckled.
She giggled. His damned lips held so much appeal. They were just lips, for God’s sake. The heat they’d manifested in her was a pointed reminder that they were so much more. His lips would be seriously addictive. That’s what she feared most. She couldn’t afford to play
with fire. She’d already been burned.
“What’s wrong?”
“This isn’t a good idea.” Angel stepped back.
He wouldn’t let go of her hand. “What? Dancing? Why?”
“Any of it. I’m here for Sabrina and Trent. Nothing more.” She backed away.
“Oh, I see, they invited you here to have a miserable time. Damn them. How rude.”
“Stop. Please.” Trembling, she fidgeted in her high heels.
Travis stepped toward her and then ran his hands up and down her arms.
Sabrina sidled up to her and slipped an arm around her shoulder. “Is everything okay?”
She forced a smile. “Yes, I’m fine.”
“You don’t look fine.” Sabrina laid her hand on Travis’ shoulder. “Can you spare Angel for a minute?”
“Sure.” He squeezed her arm and opened his mouth, but then he walked away, his head down.
“He’s gone. What’s the matter?” Sabrina said.
“It’s silly, really.”
“No it’s not. Talk to me.” Sabrina pushed a strand of hair out of Angel’s eyes.
“Travis is nothing like you described. I was prepared to loathe him and I don’t.”
“I don’t see a problem, sweetie.” Sabrina glowed.
“The problem is I could find myself liking him very much.”
“Oh. I see.” Sabrina smiled gleefully.
“Stop it. I remember that conversation vividly. This is not love at first sight.”
“I didn’t say a word.” Sabrina’s shoulders bobbed up and down.
“Stop it.” Angel swatted at Sabrina.
Sabrina just laughed harder.
“Sure, he looks exactly like Trent. He’s nice. He’s handsome and charming, but I remember everything he did to you.”
“Honey, you’re overthinking it. Remember, it was Trent who hurt me. Obviously, I got over it. I just married him.” Sabrina lifted her left hand and wiggled her ring finger.
“I know, but—”
“But what?” Sabrina stroked her arm. “You know what I think?”
“What?”
“You should let go of what happened to me. You and Travis are having a nice time. Enjoy it while it lasts. He’ll be leaving for Boston soon enough.”
“Oh that’s right. He’s not from around here.” In need of a glimpse of the man screwing with her head, Angel twisted slightly. Sadness filled her, and a cold chill washed over her. She didn’t want to think about him leaving.
“I see it on your face. You’re no happier that he’s leaving than when you thought he was staying. On second thought, I get it. I have a feeling Travis is more like Trent than I first considered. There’s something special about those Wellington men.” Love written across her face, Sabrina ogled her husband.
“Is that a good thing?” Angel peeked at Travis across the room.
“Oh yeah. Trent’s loyalty to his brother was their problem. It was their history, but they learned their lesson. See those two handsome men over there.” Sabrina pointed to them. “I get you’re leery of me marrying Trent after what happened. What about you? In all the talks we’ve had, you’ve never once mentioned a man in your life. Why is it so hard to consider giving Travis a chance?”
“I’m just not ready.”
“Now you sound like Kat. Who hurt you so badly that you’d make such a big deal about a simple wedding dinner?”
“I don’t want to discuss it.” How could she lash out at Sabrina and on her wedding day? Much less admit to how gullible she’d once been or why she no longer trusted her own instincts.
“Hey, relax. You’re safe with me.” Sabrina hugged her.
“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have come.” What was wrong with her? Sabrina was only trying to help.
“There is nothing to be sorry about.”
“Thank you. Maybe you’re right. I should shut up, stop putting a damper on your special day, and just enjoy the reception. I mean, what can happen, right?”
“Exactly. And thank you again for the lovely wedding dress.” Sabrina beamed. “I feel like a princess.”
“Tonight, you are.” Angel blinked back tears.
“You really need to consider opening the bridal salon again.”
“I’m working on it. It was fun to design again. Trent described exactly what he wanted for your dress.”
“What?” Sabrina squeaked. “He came up with the idea? I’m stunned.” In awe, Sabrina looked at her husband.
“I had the dress started and he told me what beading to add then asked for the matching cape. It was sheer genius on his part to add the ermine trim. It’s absolutely perfect on you. You’re his Cinderella.”
“On that note I’m going to go dance with my Prince Charming. Why don’t you go ask Travis to dance again? You might just find your own prince.” Sabrina winked.
“Not gonna happen.” Angel’s hands were clammy, and no matter how hard she argued the matter, her fingers and toes tingled with anticipation. “I’ll leave the happy endings to you. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to let him amuse me while he’s here, though.”
Travis would leave, and that made him safe enough. Nothing about Travis was permanent.
“You know what they say about famous last words. I hope you enjoy the taste of crow.”
“Not a chance. I’m immune.” Angel was lying through her teeth, wishing it wasn’t so.
* * * *
“What’s the story on Angel?” Travis couldn’t decipher her mixed signals.
Across the room, he saw Sabrina laugh.
Trent nodded toward her. “What do you mean? She’s a nice lady. Get to know her. Maybe you’ll see she’s your type.”
“Is she as nice as she seems, or is it an act?” Before Trent could respond, Travis added, “Any idea why she’s so skittish? I don’t get the impression she’s all that interested.” Women didn’t usually push him away. He was definitely curious about the woman.
“What? That’s not what I saw. Bro, she can’t take her eyes off you. Don’t look now but she’s looking straight at you, waiting for you to make a move,” Trent said, nudging his arm.
Travis longed to turn her direction but didn’t want to get caught. She seemed innocent, yet the way she tried to push him away implied she’d been hurt. “I’ve been dropping hints, but I don’t want to be pushy.”
As he started to turn toward Angel, Trent threw his arm across his shoulder and stopped him. “Oh, no you don’t.”
“What?” Travis asked.
Trent was annoyingly happy. “Always the gentleman, huh? Drop the sweet and the hints. There’s a fine lady talking to my beautiful wife.” Trent casually pivoted toward the women and blew Sabrina a kiss. “Get your ass over there and show her, Travis. Quit living for everyone else’s approval, including Mom and Dad’s.”
“Easy for you to say—”
“That’s right, it is. There is no way I’ll ever make them as proud as they are of you. I alone control what makes me happy.” Trent glanced at their parents, jaw clenched. “Remember, they’re the ones who tried to marry me off to Kim. You’re the favorite, putting everyone and everything else first. What about you? When is it your turn?” Trent gave him a little shove.
“Thanks. You’re right. Hey, enough heavy talk on your wedding day, huh.”
Angel was beautiful in her strapless sheath gown. White satin shimmered under a sheer pale orange outer layer. Her wavy cinnamon-colored hair teased him as much as her floral scent. Hyacinth. Like a burst of spring. He wanted her back in his arms.
“It’s not heavy talk. When we switched places and I met Sabrina again, it all fell into place for me. I wasn’t willing to lose her. I was being a dick and only succeeded in putting Kat between Sabrina and me.” Trent frowned.
“Kat told me. Yup, you were a dick.” Travis actually felt sorry for Trent.
Trent laughed. “Ancient history now, but the point is I had to try again.”
“Why are you bent on me and Ange
l being together?” Travis wanted to believe he had a chance with Angel, but her prickly attitude kept him from taking things further.
“Because she’s smart and as business savvy as you are. With her creative side and your brains, you’d make a great team. And probably millions.” Trent smacked him on the back then ruffled his hair.
He swiped his hair back into place. “Did she make Sabrina’s dress? She’s really talented. Not all foofoo and crap.” Sabrina’s dress was spectacular.
Trent smiled—not just any smile, but one that never failed to make Travis cringe. There was more to the story. “You’re up to something.”
“No, I’m not.” The set of Trent’s jaw meant he didn’t intend to spill his guts.
“Liar.”
“Get to know her. You’ll thank me.”
“I see. You’re not going to say anything else?” He gave his brother his best you-don’t-expect-me-to-believe-that-shit smirk.
“Not a word.” Trent had a devilish glint in his eye.
Travis would have to proceed with caution. “Figures. I—” Someone tapped Travis’ shoulder.
“I believe this is our dance.” Angel’s dark eyes sparkled, and she chewed her lip.
“It sure is. See ya later, bro.” He took Angel in his arms, spun her, pulled her close, waltzed her across the floor, and ignored the rest of the room. He felt as if he’d just conquered the world. “Now that you’re back where you belong, what are you doing the rest of my life?”
“Oh brother, you’re pushing it,” she said, laughter in her voice.
“Did it work?” He had no idea what Sabrina said to Angel to take the tension away, but he owed his new sister-in-law big time.
“I’ll never tell.” Angel fidgeted with an earring.
“How about we leave those old dusty skeletons where they belong and have a great evening? Are you game?”
Angel sucked in a deep breath.
He felt a ‘no’ coming on then suddenly she exhaled and smiled. “Sure. What have we got to lose?”
Travis wanted to keep her on the dance floor as long as possible. Only the longer he and Angel danced, there was no mistaking the bobble-headed whispers between family members. They needed to escape, and soon. Angel was already paranoid enough, and he hoped the family didn’t make her more uncomfortable.
