Page 91 of Edge of Desperation

I touch up my lipstick. “Do you think Jaxson’ll like it?”

Willow helped me pick out a whimsical mermaid sweetheart neckline with an ivory tulle lace gown and a satin rose underlay. It accents my curves with the hip-hugging skirt. My hair is braided into a chignon twist with wisps outlining my face.

I didn’t know what to do with the tattoo on my neck. I overcame what it symbolized, but I didn’t want the reminder of what I went through. Jaxson suggested I cover it if it bothered me, even though he reminds me daily how strong I am. In the end, I decided to have it covered and use Lykos' pawprint since he is also a huge part of my recovery.

Willow chuckles. “We’ll be lucky if you make it through the ceremony without him tossing you over his shoulder like a caveman and running toward the nearest bedroom.”

Lykos is our ring bearer. We custom-ordered a tux for him, and Lace sewed a pillow to his jacket for the rings. He’s strutting around like he’s more important than the bride and groom at the moment. He bumps me with his nose, sensing my nerves, and I scratch his snout. “I’m okay,” I whisper.

The music begins, and there’s a knock on the door. Dad pokes his head in. “Ladies, it’s time.”

Willow is my maid of honor, and Lace is my bridesmaid. Jaxson has all of his men standing up with him, except Carver who wanted to officiate, so we’re an uneven wedding party, but none of that matters. Dad holds out his arm, and I loop mine through it.

He kisses my cheek. “Your mother would be so proud of you. I love you, baby girl.”

“Love you, Daddy.” I take a deep breath as we walk toward my future husband.

I blink back tears as I recite my vows to Jaxson. Willow blows her nose loudly as Jaxson confesses his love for me.

“Do you promise to put up with all your sister’s brothers for the rest of your life?” Carver asks, and the groomsmen snicker.

Jaxson glares at him. “I do.”

“Do you promise to always love, honor, and cherish her, or risk the rest of us kicking your sorry ass?”

Jaxson’s face turns red. “Carver, I swear to God.” Carver raises his brow. “Yes, I fucking promise.”

“By the power bestowed upon me by the great state of Virginia, I pronounce you beauty and the beast!” Carver hollers. “Kiss her, asshole.”

Laughter erupts around us, but all I focus on is the storm brewing in Jaxson’s eyes. He wraps his arms around my waist and dips me, smashing his mouth to mine. I don’t know how long our mouths stay fused together, but someone threatens to hose us off so Jaxson sets me upright.

“I love you, Aurora.”

“I love you, until forever.”

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