Page 104 of Wild Tangled Hearts

Jess and I find our seats on the opposite side of the room, and it becomes apparent that the venue has been divided into sections — one side for the bride's friends and family and the other for the groom's.

I could have been with Alex, my brain reminds me.

Alex catches my gaze and rises from his seat, prepared to make his way in my direction. His intention is thwarted as the master of ceremonies begins announcing the members of the wedding party. He lowers himself back into his chair, his lips forming "sorry." I muster up another strained smile in response, but it fades quickly when Angie places a hand on his arm and leans in to engage him in conversation.

I avert my gaze, my heart heavy with an inexplicable mix of emotions. Instead, I allow my eyes to wander around the room, seeking a distraction from the knot in my stomach.

It's then that I spot someone I hadn't expected to see here — Sebastian, seated on the groom's side. He looks incredibly handsome in his well-fitted suit, and I can't help but wonder how he's connected to Hal.

As if sensing my stare, Sebastian turns his head toward me, and our eyes lock. He nods with a confident, seductive smile that sends a shiver down my spine. Caught off guard, I offer a hesitant smile before quickly looking away, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment and intrigue.

“Here,” Jess says, pouring a glass of the white wine on the table. “You look like you’re going to need this.”

I take it gratefully and drain half the glass. “You know me too well.”

She smiles and pats my arm. “I also know you overthink everything. Try to have some fun tonight.”

I glance at Alex only to find him frowning at me.

My phone vibrates on the table with a message from him.

Alex: You’re sure everything’s okay?

Bella: Yep!

Liar, my brain screams.

Alex: Wish I were sitting with you.

Bella: You look pretty cozy over there.

I type the words and hit send without thinking, immediately regretting it.

Alex: ???

“Shit,” I groan, feeling like a jealous idiot.

Bella: We should pay attention to the speeches. Talk later.

Turning my phone off, I place it in my purse and focus on Kimmy’s mom, who is making her daughter and half the room teary-eyed.

The reception continues around me, filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and joyful celebrations, but I can't shake the unease in my chest.

As the evening progresses, music fills the large hall, and guests begin to take to the dance floor. Couples sway to the romantic melodies, and the atmosphere is charged with an undeniable sense of love and happiness.

A gentle hand on my shoulder has me turning and looking up.

Alex.

He offers me a warm, dimpled smile and extends his hand. "Would you like to dance?"

My heart flutters, and I nod. We move to the center of the dance floor, surrounded by other couples sharing this intimate moment.

As we dance, Alex's arms around me, he looks down at me with concern. "Is everything alright?"

I hesitate for a moment, my emotions swirling. Opening up feels vulnerable, but I know it's necessary. "I've just been feeling a bit off lately," I admit, my voice barely above a whisper.

Alex pulls me a little closer, his touch comforting. "You can talk to me, you know. I'm here for you."

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