Page 25 of Marriage Masquerade

“You look a bit green around the gills.”

“Great, I hope the color goes well with my suit.”

“You look fine, just a bit off color. Having doubts?”

Susan was the only person besides Gemma and Nikos who knew the entire story behind the wedding. “It’s not too late to say no.”

“And do what—move to California?”

“I’ve told you a dozen times no one pays that much attention to unmarried mothers these days.”

“And I’ve told you back it would matter to me. Blame it on my small-town upbringing. Anyway, I’m committed. Just a bit nervous.”

They found the judge’s chambers and entered. Nikos was already there, standing near the window conversing with the judge. Phil and another man Gemma didn’t recognize. Must be his friend Abe.

“Wow.” Susan said. “Is that hunk by the window the groom? Tall, dark and devilishly handsome? If you don’t fall madly in love with him, send him my way.”

Gemma swallowed. The last thing she wanted to do was fall in love with anyone. Much less Nikos Petropoulos.

He looked up and saw her. Without a word to the men he’d been talking with, he crossed the room to her.

“Gemma.”

He reached for her hand and kissed the palm, enclosing it in his own as he turned to Susan.

“You must be Susan.”

“Yes, Susan Abernathy. I guess you’re Nikos.”

“I’m pleased Gemma has a good friend to join us today.”

“I just hope this all works.”

He raised an eyebrow and looked at Gemma.

“The marriage and all,” she said. “Is everyone here? Are we ready to start?”

He pulled her slightly to one side and reached for a small florist box on the table.

“I took the chance the colors would suit,” he said, offering her the box.

When Gemma opened it, she found a lovely corsage of pink roses and white baby’s breath. Susan stepped up and helped her fasten it to her suit.

“Now you really look like a bride,” her friend said, giving her a hug.

Elise hurried in, and with the entire wedding party present, they were ready to start.

The judge began the familiar service and Gemma listened as if in a trance. The opening was nice and sounded just as if they were truly getting married. Which they were, she reminded herself. Just because it seemed like a dream didn’t mean it wouldn’t be legal and binding.

“Do you, Gemma, take Nikos to be your lawful wedded husband, to love, honor and obey, in sickness—”

Gemma became instantly alert.

“Wait.”

The judge stopped. Nikos looked at her.

“Say that part again.”

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