Page 105 of Steel Beauty

His hand settles at the small of my back, his thumb grazing the satin fabric with a touch that sends a ripple of warmth through me. “I know tonight might feel overwhelming, but I want you to know something. No matter what anyone thinks or says, you’re the only one I care about. You’re the only one I see.”

A lump rises in my throat. “You realize this is it, don’t you? No aliases, no hiding. It’s you and me, out in the open for everyone to judge.”

“I know.” He nods, his gaze unwavering. “You should also know we’re going to steal the spotlight from the bride and groom tonight.” His lips curve into a proud, playful smile. “But I don’t care. Walking in with you—showing the world how incredible you are—feels right. Nothing else matters.”

The mix of nerves and excitement churning inside me finds a new edge. “I want to make you proud.” I feel my vulnerability breaking through. “This is your world, not mine. I don’t want to misstep.”

Unrelenting doubt takes root. His high-profile life, his polished friends, and the elegant world he moves through so easily—it feels like a galaxy away from mine. What if I say the wrong thing? What if I embarrass him?

His hand shifts, cupping my cheek. “Magnolia, you’re perfect as you are. There’s nothing you could do that wouldn’t make me proud.”

His words settle over me like a promise, pulling me from the edge of uncertainty. Tonight might be daunting, but with Alex at my side, it feels like the start of something bigger. Something real. Something worth every risk.

The low hum of the limo pulling up outside interrupts the moment. Alex glances toward the window, then back at me, his hand finding mine. His grip is firm and steady, his thumb brushing lightly against my skin. “Are you ready for this?”

I meet his gaze, letting the warmth of his confidence seep into me. A small smile tugs at my lips as I squeeze his hand. “As ready as I’ll ever be.”

The city lights blur by outside, casting fleeting patterns of gold and white across the interior as the limo glides through the streets. “By the way, that green dress? Perfect. It was made for you.”

“Thank you.” His compliment soothes some of the butterflies in my stomach. He picked this dress for me, and knowing he loves it makes all the difference.

Still, a thread of unease winds through me.

Earlier, he felt it necessary to warn me about the likelihood of both Celeste and Tyson being at the wedding. The thought is an unwelcome shadow in the back of my mind. What if they find a way to disrupt the night? What if old tensions rise to the surface?

But even as those doubts creep in, I remind myself why I’m here. I’m not doing this for Celeste or Tyson, or for anyone else. I’m here for Alex. No matter what happens tonight, I’ll stand by his side.

He’s been honest with me—raw and vulnerable in ways that have left me in awe of his strength. Tonight, I want to be that same source of strength for him. If the ghosts of his past rear their heads, I’ll be here. Steady. Unwavering. His lighthouse in the storm.

The wedding venue is straight-out-of-Pinterest breathtaking—towering marble columns, glistening chandeliers, and intricately arranged floral displays that look like they belong on a top-tier bridal blog. As we step inside, my hand slips into Alex’s, the touch a quiet reassurance that steadies me.

The moment we cross the threshold, heads turn and whispers ripple through the crowd. Their gazes settle on us, heavy with curiosity, as though we’re a mystery waiting to be unraveled.

Alex leans in, his breath a warm whisper against my ear. “This is only the beginning, Magnolia. A few glances here are nothing compared to what lies ahead.”

I glance up at him, finding comfort in his calm, unwavering presence. “Just promise me you won’t leave my side.”

His grip tightens slightly, his expression softening with resolve. “Never.”

As we take our seats, Alex’s hand moves to the small of my back, a touch that feels both protective and intentional, as though he’s subtly declaring to anyone watching that I’m more than his plus-one. Once seated, his hand finds my leg, resting there with a quiet confidence that steadies the swell of unease in my chest.

The gesture sends a message—to everyone here and to me—that I’m not just accompanying him tonight; I’mwithhim. It’s an act that holds meaning, not ostentatious but quiet and powerful, reminding me of his unwavering presence and the statement he’s making simply by having me at his side.

The ceremony begins, and as the bride and groom exchange vows, my thoughts drift into uncharted territory. This is what Alex wants—a future built together, a life shared in its entirety. The thought stirs something deep, equal parts longing and fear.

Marriage isn’t just a partnership; it’s the complete surrender of your heart, the willingness to let someone see every hidden corner of your soul. The vulnerability it demands feels like walking a tightrope with no safety net.

My gaze shifts to the couple before us, their faces glowing with a love so sure it feels unshakable. The thought of standing in their place sends a ripple of unease through me. The towering marble columns, glittering chandeliers, and sea of poised guests make my chest tighten.

This isn’t just a wedding; it’s a glimpse into a world I’m not sure I belong in—a world Alex navigates with ease, but one that leaves me feeling exposed and uncertain. I close my eyes for a moment, drawing a deep breath. The truth is, the life Alex wants––the life he deserves—terrifies me.

When the ceremony ends, we move to the reception, which is every bit as breathtaking. Tables draped in crisp white linens sparkle with glimmering candles and intricate floral arrangements. We’re led to a table near the front, where two couples are already seated, their laughter filling the air with a lively warmth. Alex squeezes my hand, his touch steady, as if offering silent reassurance.

“Magnolia, I want you to meet a few people. These are my teammates, Bradley and Jonathan. And their better halves, Megan and Callie. Everyone, this is Magnolia.”

I smile warmly, offering a nod as Alex makes the introductions. “Hi there. It’s nice to meet y’all.”

Megan’s face lights up, her grin growing wide and genuine. “Magnolia… I’ve never known anyone with that name. I love it. And your accent! I could listen to you talk all night.”

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