Page 103 of Wild Tangled Hearts

She's right.

Jess always has an impeccable sense of style. The dress falls gracefully, hugging my curves in all the right places. It's a color I'd never have chosen for myself, but it feels oddly perfect today.

"Wow," Jess says, her voice full of admiration as she adjusts a loose strand of my hair. "You look stunning in that dress. Alex is going to be speechless when he sees you."

A shy smile tugs at my lips as I glance at Jess's reflection. "Thanks. I hope so." I've felt slightly insecure about my relationship with Alex lately. It's not that I doubt his feelings for me, but rather his feelings for Angie.

Jess, always the discerning friend, catches the uncertainty in my eyes. She gives me a reassuring squeeze on the shoulder. "You know, everyone has their moments of doubt. But Alex is crazy about you, and you deserve all the happiness in the world."

I nod, fighting back the swarm of insecurities that threaten to engulf me. Jess is right. I should trust in us, in what we have. Alex has been supportive and understanding, even when I've been buried in the whirlwind of grading art projects. He's texted, he's called, but I've been avoiding him, using my work as a convenient excuse.

My phone buzzes on the dresser. I snatch it up, and it's another text from Alex.

Alex: Can't wait to see you. I've missed you so much.

A pang of guilt courses through me. He's been nothing but sweet and thoughtful — The kind of guy who'd ride to the rescue of a damsel in distress, even if it was his ex-girlfriend.

God, I hate how jealous I am.

Jess glances at me. "That's him, isn't it?"

"Yeah.” I chew on my bottom lip, thumbs hovering over the phone.

She places a comforting hand on my arm. "If you’re feeling insecure, you need to talk to him."

"I know," I admit. As I take a deep breath and prepare to reply to Alex's text, I realize Jess is right. It's time to confront my insecurities and talk to the man who's stolen my heart. With newfound determination, I type out a message.

Bella: I've missed you too. Can't wait to see you tonight.

"Good,” Jess says. “Now help me get ready for this wedding so I can find a hot, sexy man of my own."

I chuckle. “You don't need any help in that department, Jess. You're gorgeous; any guy would be lucky to have you."

Once Jess gives her nod of approval to her reflection in the mirror, we swiftly exit her apartment, our heels making a rhythmic click-clack on the sidewalk as we make our way toward the church. As we enter the old building and take our seats, there's an air of excitement and anticipation. I scan the room, searching for Alex among the guests, but there's no sign of him.

Just as the ceremony is about to begin, the large wooden doors at the back of the church swing open, and Alex walks in looking handsome as ever in his grey suit and crisp white shirt. I'm relieved to see him, but my relief quickly turns to disappointment as he takes the only spot left – the one beside Angie.

Alex catches my gaze and waves, giving me a dimpled grin. I force a smile and let out a slow, steadying breath.

It doesn’t mean anything, my heart beats.Where else is he supposed to sit?

Jess leans in and whispers, "Everything okay?"

"Everything's fine." But it's not fine, and I can't shake the feeling that something is wrong. I don’t know if my old insecurities are forcing themselves to the surface or if new ones are trying to take root.

My attention shifts as the notes of the wedding march begin, and the wooden doors gracefully swing open to reveal Kimmy in all her bridal radiance. The moment she begins her walk down the aisle, Hal can't contain his emotions, and tears stream down his cheeks. It's a touching sight, a testament to their love, and I find myself wiping away my own tears.

“She’s so happy,” Jess whispers, then smiles mischievously. “Also, I call dibs on the second brother. Oh my god, he’s delicious.”

A soft laugh escapes my lips, and a lady seated in the row ahead swiftly turns, her finger pressed to her lips to hush us.

After the ceremony, I spot Alex making his way towards me. My heart flutters with anticipation.

"Hey," he says softly, his eyes filled with warmth and affection. "You look stunning, as always."

A rush of emotions washes over me, and I'm tempted to throw my arms around his shoulders and kiss him. But before I can say or do anything, a photographer interrupts. “The bride would like some photos with you.”

I offer Alex an apologetic glance and mouth, "I'll be right back," before being pulled away. But once I’m done, I don’t see Alex again until Jess and I get to the reception hall. He's already taken his place at his assigned table, and a pang of frustration courses through me as I notice that Angie is seated right beside him.

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