Page 24 of Sizzling Desire

I take another sip of water, trying to drown the thoughts, but they just won’t go away. Jason is everything I thought I wanted—stable, handsome, and clearly interested, but instead of feeling excited, I feel... disconnected.

“Grace,” Jason says softly, his eyes locked on mine. “I really like you. I’d love to see where this could go.”

His words hang in the air, and I know I should feel something—excitement, nerves, anything—but all I feel is confusion. Because no matter how perfect Jason is, no matter how much I should be into this, into him… I’m not. All I can think about is Kane.

When Jason asked me to drinks and dinner, I was thankful for the distraction from all the chaos going on in my life. I practically jumped at the opportunity, but I really didn’t think it through.

I smile at Jason, but it doesn’t reach my eyes. “I appreciate that, Jason. I do.”

He leans back slightly, sensing the hesitation in my voice. “But?”

I bite my lip, feeling bad for what I’m about to say. “But... I’m not sure I’m ready for anything serious right now. I’ve got a lot on my plate, and I don’t want to lead you on.”

Jason nods slowly, his expression softening with understanding. “I get it. No pressure. I just think you’re... someone worth getting to know better.”

And there it is again, that feeling I should be getting but I’m not. I should be thrilled that a guy like Jason is interested in me, but instead, all I can think about is how different this is from the fiery, electric pull I feel whenever Kane is around.

“Thank you, Jason,” I say, genuinely grateful for his understanding, but inside, I know the truth. As perfect as Jason is, he’s not the one who makes my heart race. He’s not the one I can’t stop thinking about, no matter how hard I try.

That person is Kane.

Fuck.

I arrive atMagical Momentsjust in time to see Mia through the window, already inside, flipping through racks of dresses. The boutique is draped in soft lighting, the air filled with the scent of fresh flowers and excitement. This dress fitting is supposed to be all about Kate, but I can’t help but feel a little flutter of nerves for myself. Being her maid of honor is more than a title…it’s everything about being a best friend.

I push open the door, the little bell above ringing softly, and a boutique clerk, a petite woman named Ari, greets me with a bright smile.

"Grace, right on time," she says warmly. "Kate’s already in the fitting room. Mia’s just getting started."

“Thanks,” I say, walking past the gleaming rows of satin and tulle.

Kate’s voice echoes from the back of the shop. “Grace! Get in here, we’ve been waiting!”

I laugh and step behind the velvet curtain that separates the dressing area from the rest of the shop. Kate is perched on a small platform, wearing an ethereal, ivory gown that hugs her curves in all the right places, her face glowing as she examines herself in the mirror.

I inhale quickly at the sight of her. "You look like an absolute princess," I say, stepping closer. “Hudson’s going to lose it when he sees you.”

Kate beams, smoothing her hands over the delicate lace bodice. "I hope so. I feel like I’m in a dream." Her voice is soft, a little emotional. “I wish my mom and grandma could see me now.”

Lori, Hudson’s mom, standing nearby in a shimmering wine-colored bridesmaid dress, spins in front of the mirror, testing the twirl factor. "Grace, you’re up next. You have to try on your dress. It’s perfect."

I smile, nodding at Lori and grateful that the wedding will be before I start showing my new secret little bundle of joy. “Let’s see if it’sthatperfect.”

Ari comes over, holding the soft gown that Kate picked out for me. “Here we go,” she says, motioning toward an empty dressing room.

As I step into the fitting room and slip the dress on, I take a deep breath. There’s something about weddings that always tugs at my heartstrings and today is no different.Being here, watching Kate’s dreams come to life, it’s... special.

When I step out, Kate’s eyes widen. “Oh my god, Grace, you look amazing!” she exclaims, clapping her hands together. Mia and Lori nod enthusiastically.

I walk over to the mirror, and I can’t help but smile. The dress fits like a glove, flowing and elegant, but with just enough sparkle to catch the light.

“You’re going to steal the show,” Mia teases.

I laugh, shaking my head. “Not a chance. All eyes are going to be on Kate.”

Kate grins, her eyes misting over slightly. “I couldn’t ask for better people by my side.”

We all stand in front of the mirror together, the three of us side by side. Kate, in her stunning wedding gown, looking every bit the glowing bride, and Lori and I in our dresses, matching but still unique.

---