It had been a while since a man had said that to her. Maybe he was the first—it seemed like he might be. Beth lowered her lashes. “You flatter me, but I rather enjoy it. And you look incredible in a suit. Aren’t bodyguards supposed to wear suits?”
“Don’t get any ideas,” Wyatt said, and his hand dropped back to his side.
Beth took his arm, wishing to be close, and a bit out of her element. Guests had arrived steadily, and the rooftop was a buzz of activity. She spotted a few familiar faces, as Wyatt had, because he led her over to the Stealth group.
Cooper was the first to see them walking over. He beamed, flashing a charming smile, his eyes as blue as the sky above. He was devastatingly handsome, and likely women were easily attracted to him. He shook Wyatt’s hand then patted him on the back. “Mercer…you made it,” he said.
“Nice to see you again,” Beth said, accepting a kiss on the cheek.
Beth took in the group at a glance. The guys looked impressive all dressed up. Even Rip was all decked out. He had his dark hair tied back in a ponytail, silver rings on two fingers of his right hand, and a silver hoop in one earlobe. His attire showed off his well-developed physique to best advantage.
“You remember Rip,” Wyatt said, giving his teammate a bear hug.
Rip nodded at Beth with a warm smile, and she lifted her hand in greeting.
The guys talked about the city, places to see on the short visit, and sports. Beth leaned against Wyatt, content to let them carry the conversation. Then Travis entered with a beautiful middle-aged woman who had to be his wife.
Greetings were given all around, then Travis said, his voice laced with love and admiration, “This is my wife Melanie.” His wife had chin-length dark hair, dark eyes, and a lovely smile. “Mel, this is Elizabeth Foster; she’s here with Wyatt.”
That might give the wrong impression, but she was sure Wyatt would set the record straight later. “It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Melanie said. “I’m glad to see you joined us.”
Beth had been allowed entrance into the inner circle of the Stealth team. The exchanges were casual and friendly, as she’d expect of such a group. Yet it was a novel feeling, not one Beth had experienced before. Without voicing it, the team members showed respect for each other, and there was a bond that seemed unbreakable.
Standing with Wyatt, silently watching the interchange, Beth was a part of it all. She was safer than she’d been in a while, if ever. Among so many former Navy guys, SEALs made of tougher stuff than she could imagine, she was completely protected.
“Did you know that Beth’s a cartoonist?” Wyatt said, out of the blue. His chest was puffed up and he had a silly grin. Apparently, he was proud of her. “And she’s quite good; I’ve seen her stuff.”
Beth’s cheeks warmed. “Wyatt is overplaying it,” she said. “I enjoy sketching, but I’m not well known or anything.”
“Well, you should be.” Wyatt put his arm around her shoulders, and for a fleeting second Beth wished she could boast such success.
Melanie disappeared for a few minutes, and she returned with two exuberant young girls. They looked identical, dressed in light blue satin dresses and white shoes. Each wore a crown of blue and white flowers. “I found them in the bridal suite,” Melanie said. “They were being little pests, and the bride is trying to get ready.”
Both girls danced about their mother on tiptoes, full of energy. “She said it was okay. She likes having us around,” one girl said. “She said so.”
Reaching for the girl who had spoken, Melanie said, “This is Abigail.”
Sudden shyness overcame Abigail, who shrank behind her mother, then peeked around and in a soft voice said, “Hello.”
“And this is Brianna.”
Both girls had long brown hair that fell below their shoulders, and big brown eyes. They looked so much alike that Beth didn’t know if she’d be able to tell them apart later. “It’s nice to meet you both.”
Brianna was more extroverted than her sister, and she danced over to Beth. “We get to be the flower girls,” she said. “Marlene said we could.” She looked up with a wide smile, then did a pirouette.
Beth had seen the photograph of Melanie and the twins when she’d been at Stealth. Plus Wyatt had told her a bit about Travis and his family. It seemed that Melanie hadn’t been able to conceive for the longest time, then ended up getting pregnant with twins.
Beth stooped down to eye level with Brianna. “What kind of flowers are you going to throw?” And the young girl breathlessly told her all about it. She raved about the petals to be thrown, the colors, the bride, and many other details. Without further prompting, she entertained Beth for a while, but Abigail watched from the safety of her mother’s skirt.
Then Abigail reached a small hand up to Travis. “Daddy,” she said, “pick me up…please.”
Travis was mid-forties, a rugged sort, build as solid as brick. His blue eyes could be intimidating; Beth had noticed when she’d met with him. He swept his daughter into one arm, and she clung to his neck with her head nestled against his neck.
Then the groom came out to visit with the group, and Beth was introduced. Garrett Flynn was in a tux with a white rose in his lapel, and he radiated joy. His blue eyes shone when he spoke of his bride. “Marlene is still getting ready, and I’m not allowed in there.”
“That’s the way it works, buddy,” Wyatt said. “You’re better off out here.”
“You have the rings, Coop?”
Cooper laughed. “Yeah, yeah, just like the other three times you asked me.”
“I just don’t want you to screw it up,” Garrett said. “I can’t stand up there at the altar empty-handed, dude.”
The initial flurry of attention to the groom faded, as conversations started up again. Melanie left with the girls, probably to let them burn off some energy before their wedding duties began. Garrett stood next to Wyatt, and Coop started talking to Beth. He knew of her affinity for technology, computers in particular, so they had something in common.
Cooper assured her of his backup with her current situation. “Sometimes these cases take work to crack, but there’s always a way…if you keep at it.”
Beth heard the groom speak in a low voice. “Is she your date?”
“A client,” Wyatt said. “She lives in New York.”
“The way you two look together, I’m thinking you consider her more than a client.”
Beth’s heart leapt, as if Wyatt might confess hidden feelings to his friend. “You’re love-struck, buddy. Getting married has you all romantic and shit.”
There was no reply, so Beth kept her attention on the casual discussion with Cooper. She was eavesdropping, but didn’t have to be obvious about it.
“Okay, dude, Beth and I are friends. I must have mentioned her before. I knew her growing up,” Wyatt said. “There, are you satisfied?”
Out of the corner of her eye, Beth saw the groom wink, but all he said was, “Sure…I’m satisfied.”
All was disrupted when Tessa swooped in. “There you all are. I came out to check. The bride is doing fine; she’ll be ready in plenty of time.” She pointed a finger at Garrett. “And no peeking.”
“How could I?” Garrett said. “The damn door is locked.”
“And it’s going to stay that way,” Tessa said, then looked at Beth. “You’re all alone out here with these muscled heroes.” She linked arms. “Come with me; I could use a break and a glass of water.”
There was a drink station just inside, and Tessa poured two glasses of water. “One for you.” She handed one to Beth, then took a sip of hers. “I’m parched. Wedding preparations are nerve-racking…and I’m not even the bride.”
Beth was glad to see Tessa. She was definitely a kindred soul.
“While I’m in the city,” Tessa said, “I’m going to check out one of those new restaurants you mentioned…exotic hot dogs or something?”
“I ate there the other day. I think you’ll like it. And the place has t
he best Manhattans.”
“I’m in, then,” Tessa said. “Of course, I won’t be here long, but I do have to eat.”
Beth drank half of her water, thirstier than she’d realized. “I was happy to hear that you were flying in for the wedding.”
“I wouldn’t miss it. I’ve gotten to be friends with Marlene, and Garrett is…well, Garrett. I like the guy.”
“It’s quite a company…Stealth is.”
“More of a family,” Tessa said. “And I wouldn’t miss a wedding of one of our own.” She tipped her head. “Besides, somebody has to keep these alpha males in line.”
Beth laughed. “You’re the only woman who could.”
Tessa raised her glass. “Damn straight.”
It was too early to file into the seats on the rooftop. Beth spotted chairs meant for hotel guests, and walked over to sit down. “My feet are killing me,” she said. “I don’t wear heels that often.”
“I’m with you there,” Tessa said, and took a seat. She kicked off her shoes, and Beth did the same. “Ah, that’s better.”
“Wyatt said you took care of the wedding gift. I didn’t know what to get,” Beth said.
“I checked the registry and picked something for you. It will be on your tab.” Tessa crossed her legs. “But you can donate if you like. Garrett and Marlene sent notes with the wedding invitations that instead of buying a present a guest could donate to the warriors’ fund.”
“She’s known for her work to support veterans. I’d love to contribute,” Beth said.
“There will be cards at the reception, so you can fill one in then, if you like.” Tessa smiled. She chatted about the Stealth team and told a couple of funny anecdotes. It was apparent that she thought the world of the guys, and Beth couldn’t blame her. Her fondness had grown, and she’d only recently met them.
Tessa had an air of confidence that Beth admired. She looked like a woman who worked out regularly, and had an attitude that showed she could take care of herself. It was a unique type of woman who could work with a bunch of ex-SEALs, and Tessa fit that image.
“I better check on the bride, see if she needs anything,” Tessa said, and slipped her shoes back on. “Come with me; I’ll introduce you.”
“Are you sure? I don’t want to intrude.”
“It will be fine.” Tessa headed for the elevator, and Beth followed.
The bridal suite was a hub of activity. If Marlene had wanted Zen-type relaxation before the big moment, she was out of luck. Classical music played in the background, but was drowned out by all the talking. Beth stood back from the fray, not quite sure if she belonged there.
A woman with wavy brown hair and stunning gray eyes wiped a stray lock of hair from her forehead. “Tessa, you’re back. Have you seen the garter? She’s going to need it in a minute, and I can’t remember where I put it.”
Tessa grabbed Beth’s wrist and pulled her forward. “I brought Beth; she’s with Wyatt.” She nodded toward the woman. “This is Anna Tucker, the maid of honor.”
Skipping the introduction, Anna said to Beth, “Oh, wonderful. Can you refill the water glass? I’m afraid the bride is going to get dehydrated.”
Beth was happy to be useful, and saw to the task right away. She handed the refilled glass to Anna, just as Tessa retrieved the blue garter from a drawer. “It was right where you put it.”
“Of course it was.” Anna took the garter and the water, then motioned for Beth to follow her. Across the room, Marlene Parks sat on a stool in front of a bay of mirrors. She wore a white bridal robe and slippers.
Anna put the water next to her friend. “Keep drinking water. You won’t bloat. I promise.” She put an arm around Beth to pull her closer. “And this is Beth. She’s with Wyatt.”
Marlene Parks was more beautiful in person than in the movies. Her blond hair was twisted up into a fancy style, with a few tendrils escaping down the neck. Tiny flowers were placed inside the curls, and diamonds sparkled on her earlobes. Her makeup was good enough for Vogue. Her skin was unblemished, and someone had taken great care with her foundation. Her cheeks blushed light pink.
“Oh, I’m so glad that Wyatt brought someone. And you’re just in time.”
Beth couldn’t imagine what for. Gazing at Marlene, she was star-struck. It was really her.
“I need an objective opinion. I can’t make up my mind,” Marlene said. “The diamond tiara is gorgeous, and Julie says that she can work it into my hair so it will look good.” She turned on the stool to look at Beth. “But I’m not sure. It’s seems a bit overdone.” She wrinkled her brow. “What do you say, Beth? Should I stick with the flowers or go with the tiara?” She sighed. “I just don’t know. And there’s a whole team of photographers out there. Whatever I decide, the image will be immortalized.”
Beth took a closer look at Marlene’s hairstyle.
“At least the media won’t be at the ceremony or the reception,” Marlene said. “That would be too much. This is a special day. It belongs to Garrett and to me, not to the public. Don’t you agree?”
Beth nodded.
“But some of the pictures will be published, and I don’t want the critics to write about how I was over the top with the diamond tiara…like I’m some princess or something.” Marlene waited for her to speak.
“You wouldn’t be some princess,” Beth said. “You are the bride, and you can wear whatever you choose.” Spoken by a woman who has made a habit of defying fashion traditions. “Why not wear both?”
After a moment of silence, Marlene grinned. “Can you do that, Julie?” she said to the hairdresser standing by with hairpins.
“It’s all a matter of balance,” Julie said. “I can make it work.”
A lady with blondish hair and the same emerald-green eyes as Marlene mouthed, “Thank you.” She sat in a chair off to the side. “I’m Cynthia Parks,” she said, “the mother of the bride.”
Marlene interjected, asking more questions, apparently willing to rely on Beth, although they’d just met. After a few minutes, Beth relaxed under the glow of the bride-to-be. Marlene wasn’t a bit snooty, even though she had every right to be, and before long, Beth was her new friend.
Chatting away as if she’d know Marlene far longer than she had, Beth said, “How did you decide to get married in New York?”
“I’ve always loved New York.” Marlene smiled at her mother. “This is closer, since my mom lives in Boston. And I was out here filming, so I just decided that this was where I wanted to get married.”
Anna interrupted. “It’s almost time…”
Marlene had more than enough assistance, so Beth excused herself. “You look amazing,” she said, then headed for the door, leaving Tessa and Cynthia to oversee the process of getting the bride into her dress.
*****
The wedding was as enchanting as a fairy tale. Bouquets of flowers decorated the rooftop, and soft white clouds floated across the robin’s-egg-blue sky. The minister waited with the groom under the arbor. The seats were filled on both sides of the walkway. Wyatt pointed out the groom’s sister Adele in the front row with her family, seated next to his parents. And Beth saw Cynthia Parks seated on the bride’s side.
“Glasgow Love Theme” played in the background, filling the rooftop with romance. Beth was moved to tears before the procession began. Wyatt’s knee pressed against hers, and he glanced over with a barely visible smile.
Garrett Flynn proudly waited for his bride, his blue eyes bright. His expression was filled with anticipation, although he showed no outward signs of nervousness.
The flower girls entered, measuring each step to the music as best they could. Brianna walked with a bounce, as if she might skip or run down the aisle. Her shyer sister Abigail kept pace, but concentrated on each step as she careful navigated the carpeted runway. She glanced to the side as she passed, and Beth gave her a smile of encouragement.
The wedding procession followed, and each bridesmaid entered with a groomsman. As each pair reached t
he altar, the women lined up to the left, with the men to the right. The last to appear was Anna the maid of honor, with Cooper the best man.
All eyes turned toward the walkway, and Travis stepped onto the carpet with the lovely bride on his arm. Marlene was truly a princess. The tiny white flowers adorned her hair, set off by the sparkling tiara. Her green eyes gleamed, accented with dramatic shadow, and her skin glowed.
The sleeveless white satin dress was overlaid with beaded lace appliqués covering the bodice to below the waist. The skirt flowed around her, with the length of it dragging behind. Marlene stepped past, showing the sheer fabric back of the dress, also adorned with beads and lace. The appliqués cascaded across the gorgeous hemline, creating an enchanting look.
Beth’s heart seized when the bride and groom looked into each other’s eyes, love’s strong bond apparent in their gaze. The ceremony was elegant; Marlene and Garrett each recited a short poem, specially written for their betrothed, then took their wedding vows.
Cooper produced the rings, and the diamond on Marlene’s finger glittered in the bright daylight. Joy filled the room, with not a dry eye in the crowd. Garrett pulled his new bride into his arms and kissed her deeply, then the newlyweds turned with smiles to face the audience.
Amidst cheers, clapping, and tears, the couple strolled back along the carpet, to Ray LaMontagne singing the love song: “You Are the Best Thing.” Beth watched, swept into the magic of the moment. She dabbed at her eyes with a tissue and rose from her chair, unsure if she should look at Wyatt or not.
It took a moment for Beth to catch her breath. She was in love with being in love, smitten with the romantic couple, and decidedly a convert to weddings—other people’s, anyway. Wyatt took her arm, and she risked looking up at him. Emotion welled in his expression, and seeing his heart touched in that way, something changed for Beth.
She hadn’t thought of Wyatt as sensitive or emotionally vulnerable, yet he’d been moved by the ceremony. “They deserve happiness,” he said, his momentary lapse of self-control passed. But Beth had witnessed what he held inside. A macho, alpha warrior he may be—but he had a heart.
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