From here I had a better view of the entire tent. People had gathered at several lounge areas that were set up around. One of them had long, black leather sofas with white and green pillows, while another was made up of a small group of round, white sofas. White rectangle shaped stands held black tree decorations with green candles hanging from their branches. A small stage was exactly opposite us and a band consisting of four guys I didn’t recognize was set up on it. A hard floor of some kind was laid out in front of the stage for dancing.
The singer of the band stepped up to the microphone and said, “It’s time for the happy couple to have their first dance.”
Trey grinned at me and took my hand, leading me onto the hard floor as the band began to play an unfamiliar song. A waiter stepped forward and took our champagne glasses before Trey pulled me close to him, his hand on my waist.
“Is your shoulder up to this?” I asked.
“You let me worry about my shoulder,” he said, giving me that lazy, half-smile I love so much.
Everyone stood along the edges of the tent and watched as Trey and I danced. I felt like I was floating as I looked into his deep, blue eyes and saw the unconditional love there. He held me close, and for the first time in a long time, I let myself feel completely girly and fragile. Trey would keep me safe, even if he was still human. It was such a weight off of my shoulders knowing that my heart was safe with him. For once, I could let someone protect me instead of the other way around. As Trey and I turned in a circle to the music, I saw Antonio watching me from across the tent. He smiled and winked, and I smiled back. I was completely at ease in every sense of the word. I could forget about the impending problems that could arise in the next few days and just enjoy tonight. The only thing on my mind was the incredible man who held me in his arms. That’s when things hit a whole new level of interesting.
Just as the song ended and everyone clapped, one of the waiters approached and whispered something to Trey. Thanks to my supernatural hearing, I didn’t miss a beat.
“There are two men outside who aren’t on the guest list.”
“What do they want?” Trey asked.
“They won’t say, but they’re wearing suits.”
“Probably just paparazzi,” Trey assured the waiter, although we both knew that wasn’t true. “Thank you for the heads up. I’ll take care of it.”
The waiter, looking satisfied, excused himself to go back to work. Trey and I smiled as if nothing had changed and took our seats at a special table reserved for us. It wasn’t until I was sitting that I realized the centerpieces were glass vases with black rocks in the bottom and a single green beta fish swimming around inside. Servers brought out dinner, and Trey and I talked as we ate.
“Who’s the band?” I asked him.
“Crosstalk,” he answered. “They’re a new band that just signed on with the label. We’re thinking of having them open up for us on tour.”
“I think they’d be a good fit,” I said. “About the paparazzi outside, I’ll let Antonio know they’re here as soon as I can.” Trey nodded.
O’Shea’s voice came through the speakers, and Trey and I looked up to see him standing, microphone in hand, to address the group.
“I’d like to say a few words about the bride and groom. Those of you who know Trey well, know that he can be a little indecisive at times,” he began. “Hence, the three best men here tonight,” he gestured at Jonas and Chase and everyone laughed. “I’ve known Trey the longest so the speech was delegated to me.” O’Shea looked at Trey and I, and it was obvious he was nervous. “Trey’s the one who’s good with words, so forgive me if this isn’t lyric-worthy.” Trey smiled, and O’Shea took a deep breath and seemed to relax a bit. “Trey, you’ve been my best friend since junior high,” he said. “It was your insane idea to put this band together to begin with. If there’s one thing I’m sure about, it’s that you do whatever you put your mind to, and you do it well. This step you’re taking tonight won’t be any different.” Then O’Shea looked at me. “Aurora,” he said. “You’ve seen enough to know how crazy things can get with the band, but I think the guys would agree that having you around has been a breath of fresh air for all of us.” I smiled and he added, “No really. I’m sure it has something to do with the air freshener you insist on using at the studio, but whatever it is, keep it up.” This earned a roar of laughter, and I was grinning while I shook my head at him. “If anyone can handle putting up with us long-term, it’s you. I know sharing Trey with millions of adoring fans won’t be easy, but anyone can see that you’re made for each other. Welcome to the family. We wish you both the best.”
We raised our glasses with him, and Trey gave me a quick kiss. After dinner, it was time for the mother/son and father/daughter dances. Antonio and I danced while Trey and his mom danced nearby.
“My babysitters are here,” I whispered softly to Antonio as we turned in a circle to the music. As usual, he didn’t seem surprised.
“I sensed them arrive a few moments ago.”
“What do you suggest we do about them?”
“Nothing for now. They don’t seem to want to cause a scene any more than we do.”
“Yet,” I added. “Don’t put it past them.”
“I’ll keep track of them,” he said. “You just enjoy your wedding celebration.”
“You must think I’m crazy,” I said. “Getting married like this.”
He raised an eyebrow and smiled at me. “You forget I was married,” he said with an air of longing. “I still believe in marriage. Besides, our kind are fiercely loyal when we choose a mate. Just because we don’t normally officiate the relationship with rings and a cake doesn’t mean we aren’t committed. There’s nothing wrong with going the extra step.”
I smiled up at him, grateful that he understood. “I don’t give you enough credit,” I said to him. “It means a lot to me that you’re here today.”
“I wouldn’t be anywhere else. It’s not every day one of my children gets married.” I knew Antonio well enough to detect the hint of sadness in that statement. He had been married before he was changed. His wife and two sons still live in Chicago where they believe him to be dead. He’d been dying of cancer when his maker had offered to make him a vampire. He’d thought it best to let his family believe he died, since he could no longer be with them. He still made trips to Chicago often to check on his family, watching over them from a distance. Both of his sons were married now, and he hadn’t been able to attend either of their weddings for obvious reasons.
“He asked my permission, you know,” Antonio said, pulling me from my thoughts.
“Trey?”
Antonio nodded. “Last night at my place. I have to hand it to him. He’s determined.”
I shook my head in disbelief. Trey would never cease to amaze me.
Chapter 22
Aurora
WHEN MY DANCE WITH Antonio ended, Trey and the rest of Catalyst took the stage. Kacie rushed to my side excitedly and said, “Is he going to serenade you?”
I shrugged, although I had my suspicions. She grabbed my hand, and I smiled and rolled my eyes at her overreaction. Trey stepped up to the microphone, looking directly at me with that killer, half-smile.
“My arm isn’t quite up to playing guitar yet,” he said. “But you didn’t think I was going to let this night pass without singing to you, did you?” I shook my head, smiling up at him. He grinned victoriously, and O’Shea began picking out a familiar melody on an acoustic guitar that I recognized as “Mirage.” Trey had written this song while sitting in my loft at The Waking Moon one night not so long ago. I’d mentioned to him that if I had to pick a favorite song from the new album, “Mirage” would be it. He’d obviously tucked away that little tidbit of information for a time like this.
“I lie awake
These sleepless nights can last forever
I try to take you in.
“I can’t believe
You’re in my arms- and here with
me
I pinch myself again.
“Cause I know … it’s worth it
You’re worth- whatever it takes
To make you stay.
“And I’ll show … you over and over
Every day- as long as you’ll stay
With me…”
It was still so surreal, hearing Trey’s voice flow around me, knowing that I’d get to enjoy it for the rest of my life. It was more than anyone could hope for. I tried to imagine how many girls would give their left arm to be in my shoes just then, but the thought overwhelmed me. I clapped as hard as anyone when the song ended, and Trey jumped off of the small stage to greet me. I kissed him, wanting him to know how much it meant to me that he’d gone to so much effort to make this night unforgettable.
Crosstalk took the stage again and played while everyone else joined us on the dance floor. I noticed when Antonio moved closer to the tent doors, but he gave me a reassuring smile from across the way to let me know he was just being cautious. Trey and I danced on and off for the next half hour. During one song, Jonas, Chase and O’Shea all took their turns cutting in on each other for a dance, making me feel like the most popular girl at prom or something. I was grateful to be surrounded by so many people who could make me laugh in an instant. The lead singer of Crosstalk – I still hadn’t learned his name yet – even announced to everyone that Catalyst’s new single had dropped today. Jonas slipped him an iPod with the song on it and he played it over the speakers for all of us. Trey and the rest of the band glowed with excitement and pride at hearing their song on the loud speakers. That was my husband singing a song that was officially being played on radio stations all across the country today. I couldn’t have been more proud of everything he and the band had accomplished.
Aside from the looming threat of the Emissary interrupting the perfect wedding, the rest of the evening went by in a fantastic blur. Kacie caught my bouquet, making her even giddier than she had been, if that’s possible. Neon caught my garter when it practically hit him in the face after Trey flicked it over his shoulder, causing everyone to roar with laughter. Poor guy will never hear the end of it. The wedding cake, which was made up of four square tiers alternating from black to white, looked more like a piece of art than a cake. There was intricate lace detail on it and a green, silk ribbon going around each tier. Fresh, white lilies and smaller versions of the green flowers from my bouquet cascaded down one side. It was so spectacular I almost couldn’t bring myself to cut into it. Trey, however, had no such reservations. We cut the first piece together and gave each other a bite while the photographer snapped away on his camera. Then the cake was cut and served. It tasted as good as it looked. Trey took a moment to thank all of our guests on our behalf for attending our impromptu wedding and making it a night to remember. Before I knew it, he and I were waving goodbye and climbing into a limo.
“Where are we going?” I asked as I stared into the rearview mirror at the black Emissary car following us. We’d only been driving for a few minutes, but I could tell already that we weren’t headed toward Trey’s house or mine. I couldn’t imagine what he had planned now.
“Don’t worry. You’ll love it,” Trey added as the driver took a left turn. “We’re here.” The car came to a stop and Trey opened the door and climbed out, holding it for me. I followed, trying not to step on my wedding dress. We were standing in front of a beautiful beach house. The Emissary had the sense to park a good distance away and cut the car’s engine. The driver of our limo pulled away, and I saw that Trey’s silver BMW X5 was parked to the side of the house.
“It’s not just for tonight,” Trey said. “I reserved it for more than a week. It might come in handy in a few days. It’s nice and quiet … and private. I thought it might be a nice place to die.”
I smacked his good shoulder in disapproval of his terrible joke, but he grinned anyway. He stopped me before we reached the steps and picked me up, lifting me into his arms. “Screw my shoulder, we’re doing this right.” I laughed as he took us across the threshold and into the house. He set me down gently, and I glanced around to familiarize myself with the surroundings. We were standing in a great room with bamboo floors. From there, I could glimpse part of the kitchen and a balcony at the back of the house.
“What do you think?” Trey asked.
“It’s a great place not to die,” I said, giving him a wry smile.
“Well, it just so happens I saved the best part for last.” He took my hand and led me down a short hallway, opening the door at the end to reveal a king-sized bed with satin sheets. A fire crackled in the fireplace, and red rose petals were scattered on the bed and the floor around it, their sweet fragrance welcoming us in. “I know today was a little crazy, what with me springing a wedding on you and everything. I just wanted tonight to be ...” He frowned and said, “It’s too much, isn’t it?”
“It’s perfect,” I said as I stepped forward and placed my hand on his chest. “Just like today was perfect.” Trey brushed a strand of hair away from my face and leaned his forehead against mine, his blue eyes blazing. “It was great celebrating with everyone today,” I added. “But I’m more than happy to have you all to myself right now.”
His heart shifted gears, and I reached up, wrapping my arms around his neck and kissing him deeply. When our lips met, I was whisked away in the whirl of emotions coming from him. The sensation was more intense than usual, but in that moment, everything was. I let myself get caught up, my own emotions blending seamlessly with his. It was just one more way we’d become one. After all the time I’d spent hiding my secrets from Trey, it was getting easier to open up to him. Trey was mine in every sense of the word, and everything in his kiss told me that I was the only woman he wanted forever. He was breathless when the kiss ended, that half-smile stretching across his perfect lips. I untied his tie, sliding it out of his shirt collar and dropping it on the floor. With a quick nod, he gestured to the open window above the bed and the view of the waxing moon in the sky.
“Just so you know,” he said, his voice low. “I’m totally cool with you reading my mind tonight.”
“Don’t threaten me with a good time.” I raised an eyebrow at him, and he looked at me, his blue eyes dark and stormy. Then his hand went behind me and shut the bedroom door.
Chapter 23
Aurora
TREY WAS SOUND ASLEEP when my stomach woke me up at noon the next day. I slipped out of bed without disturbing him and found a pair of my shorts and a tank top in the closet. I dressed and snuck into the kitchen. I checked the fridge and was pleasantly surprised to find a small supply of blood inside. Trey really had thought of everything. I downed a sack, surprised at just how thirsty I was after yesterday’s events. There was no need to feed for real since I’d be taking Trey’s blood in a few days to change him. The thought of drinking from Trey was strange now. It didn’t matter that I’d wanted to the first night we’d met. He’d become my entire world. I went to the bathroom and brushed my teeth before making my way back into the bedroom. I climbed back into bed and watched Trey sleep. His chest was rising and falling in a perfect, contented rhythm.
“Hey,” I said softly, smiling at the way his hair stuck out at every angle. I laid my head down on his chest, snuggling close.
“Good morning.” His voice was rough with sleep. He ran his fingers through my hair and we enjoyed the comfortable silence for a few minutes, his breathing gently rocking me up and down. “You sleep okay?” he asked after a moment.
“Sure. You?” I traced his Catalyst tattoo with my fingernail.
“I crashed hard,” he said. “What time is it anyway?”
“It’s already noon. You’re probably hungry.”
“I’m a guy. I’m always hungry.” I could hear the smile in his tone, and I sat up to look at him. “What about you?” he asked. “You wanna grab a bite?” He made a show of lifting his chin and exposing his throat.
I shook my head, and he laughed. I leaned back down, plant
ing a kiss in the center of his chest. His heart jumped right on cue. I smiled and left another kiss on his tattoo. Then I moved up to his neck and felt his breathing quicken as I lowered my lips to his jugular. I planted a slow kiss on that spot, nipping at his skin lightly with my teeth. He stopped breathing for a second and then a deep laugh escaped his lips as he threw his arms around me, pulling me down on the bed next to him. He propped himself up on one elbow and smiled down at me.
“You’re insane,” he said, staring at me fondly.
“Says lunch.” I raised an eyebrow at him and he laughed again, this time bringing his lips to mine in a quick, but determined, kiss.
“I’m going to jump in the shower,” he said.
“I’ll order some lunch,” I offered. “The kind that doesn’t talk, I suppose.” He sat back on the bed and grinned at me as I walked to the bedroom doorway.
The pizza I’d ordered came to the door just minutes after Trey got out of the shower. He was only wearing a pair of jeans when he came into the dining room where I was setting out plates and opening the pizza box.
“You were right about me needing to eat,” he said as he sat down and grabbed a slice. “What’s it like to be changed?” he asked after chewing a bite of pizza.
Immortals And Melodies (Blood And Guitars #2) Page 12
