Page 29 of Fauxmance

My eyes didn't look smoky. They looked like I was auditioning for a role in the Addams family.

After accidentally poking myself in the eye with the mascara wand, I'd given up.

The result was a little scary to be honest, so I'd cleaned my face, and now I just looked washed out.

I grabbed a t-shirt and threw it on, adding my favorite flannel when I noticed a stain near the collar. My hair had a bit of frizz going on. My nerves were on high, and when I checked my phone…

I had seven texts from my sister.

Jas:Good morning, Magnolia! Happy Wedding Day!!!!!

Jas:Also: Why didn't you text me that? :(

Jas:Oh yeah, you got stuck in an elevator. I guess you must've crashedafter?Anyway, I love you, sis. I'm waiting on you and Mom to get here. I got to the venue four hours early to make sure everything runs smoothly. This day has to be perfect!

Jas:The florist is being difficult. She says I told her no pink roses, but why the heck would I say that??? I love pink. Roses are my favorite. She left a while ago, and she still isn't back…

Jas:Seriously, where are you guys?

Jas:I need my mom and maid of honor here!

Jas:It's only the biggest day of my life *sigh*.

I shook my head and quickly sent her a text.

Me:On our way now! It's going to be amazing, Jas! You'll see! <3

Awesome. I'd already let my sister down—and I hadn't even told her about my escort-less state yet. This was not how I pictured my day starting as maid of honor.

I was tired. Dreams of a certain guy had kept me tossing and turning all night. They were good dreams, yes. Very good dreams. But now I was feeling sleep-deprived—in the best possible way. My eyes closed as I relived the kiss for the millionth time, and I couldn't help butsmile.

"Magnolia," Mom called again.

"Coming," I said.

Grabbing the garment bag with my dress, my shoes and purse, I jogged out to the living room. Mom tapped her foot as I made a detour, stopping by the laundry. But I had to get Hayden's handkerchief. I'd hand-washed it then left it in there to dry.

I smiled as I met her at the door. "All right. Let's go."

Looking to the material, Mom grinned but said nothing.

"It's like a lucky charm," I said with a sniff. "In case things go south at the wedding."

Her eyes softened as she shook her head. "Everything's going to be fine, baby. Tonight, your sister is marrying the love of her life, and you are going to shine like the star you are."

"How can you be sure?"

"Because your dress is almost as amazing as the girl who'll be wearing it," she said.

When I laughed, she put her hands on her hips.

"I'm serious. You're going to slay all day in that thing."

I gave her a nod. "I'll try my best to channel Beyonce."

"Channelyou." Mom tilted her head to the side. "You look nice by the way."

"Really?" I asked.

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