Page 84 of Tempting Irish

Chapter 26

Bree

Dublin.

I love the city, but being back here only reminds me that I only have a few days left before I have to gohome.

The drive back was ominously silent, both of us lost in our own thoughts. I like that Owen lets me stay in my head at times. That he doesn’t force conversation. But I could tell that when he woke up this morning, something was botheringhim.

I just don’t knowwhat.

After he carried my bags up to his suite at the hotel, he’d left almost immediately, saying he’d see me at thechurch.

I pace the large living room, an unsettled feeling vibrating through my limbs and twisting mystomach.

My cell buzzes with a message from Emer, wondering where I am. She’s expecting me in her room to help her get ready. Not that she needs my help; she has Agnus and Delaney. But from her earlier texts, I’m pretty sure Agnus is driving her crazy, and she’s hoping I’ll take some of her mother’s attention offher.

I’ll be right there, I tap out, then presssend.

The black satin dress I brought for ajust-in-case momentis the only thing I have that’s somewhat appropriate for a wedding. Matched with the silver heels Delaney lent me, it’ll have to do. I add a touch of make-up, then twist my hair up and pinit.

Delaney opens the door when I go to Emer’s room, a smile spreading across her face when she sees me. “You’re back. Did you have a goodtime?”

“I did.” I force a smile and hug her back when she wraps her arms aroundme.

“Good.” She takes my arm and leads me into the room where Agnus is fussing over Emer’shair.

“It’s fine, Mom,” Emer grumbles. “Ye’ve stuck me with enough pins, I’d set off a metal detector.” Her eyes brighten when she sees me. “Bree.” She wobbles slightly when she stands. “Thank God ye’rehere.”

“You look beautiful,” I say honestly, letting her hugme.

I don’t think I’ve been hugged as much in my whole life as I have since being here. It’s a bitdisconcerting.

“I look like a beached whale.” Emer runs her palms over the pink satin and lace gown, cupping her extended belly, and narrows her eyes at Agnus. “I can’t believe I let ye talk me intothis.”

“Ye’ll thank me oneday.”

Emer gives an exasperated sigh and looks back at me. “Tell me all about yertrip.”

Heat creeps up my neck. “It wasfine.”

“Justfine?”

Along with Emer, both Agnus and Delaney wait expectantly for my answer aswell.

I shrug, not giving anything away. “It was nice to gohome.”

“Does that mean ye’re staying?” Emerpresses.

“I…”

“Stop hounding the girl,” Agnus says. “She’s got time to decide.” She cups my cheeks. “And ye know ye always have a place to stay withme.”

“Thank you.” I swallow the lump that forms in mythroat.

I belonghere.

I just don’t think I canstay.

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