Page 11 of Conveniently Theirs

“Not what I’m worried about. She’s always been true to her word so she’s in this crazy situation for the long run. What I don’t have a clue about is how she’s going to react when she discovers my hidden feelings for her.”

Devin’s expression dims. Maybe I need to worry more about him and his place in this situation. I take his hand. “Hon? I don’t want to hurt you either. This, what I’m doing today is going to change our relationship, too. We’ve talked about how a woman could… Am I being selfish by bringing Keni deeper into our lives? Shit. Have I ever even asked how your friendship with her might change?”

He remains silent with his lips pressed together and I frown. The rare moments when he doesn’t have something to say are poignant and full of importance. This time is doubly important becausehe’s not being open about something. “It’s about Keni, isn’t it? What’s your concern?”

He scrubs his hands over his face. “I’m just tired, babe. No worries.”

This time I’m not going to call him out on the lie. “If you say so.”

His grin is bright but the emotion doesn’t reach his dull eyes. “I do. Now, it really is time for you to get ready. We’re meeting Keni at the spa, then I’m sending the two of you off to dinner.”

“You should come with us.” The support of his presence would go a long way to keep my nerves in check. And healthier than the last of the bourbon I’m eyeing.

“We talked about this, babe. It’s better if there’s no indication I’m involved in any way.” After a quick kiss, he rises. “On your feet Joshua. It’s your wedding day.”

Once I’m dressed in my favorite suit, he disappears, returning a minute later with a tie and pocket square. “These match Keni’s dress.”

“You got her in a dress? You really are a miracle worker.”

He blows on his nails then rubs them against his chest. “You know it. Wait, not that way.” He slaps my hands away from the tie and fusses until he’ssatisfied and stands back. After a long, appraising look, he nods. “You’ll do.”

“I’ll do?” I grab his shirt front and pull him close enough to kiss. “I love you.”

“I love you, too, Josh.” He untangles his shirt from my fingers. His laugh is honest and the last of the dark despair is gone from his expression. “So not normal to say that right before getting married to someone else.”

“Maybe it should be.”

“Maybe it should. Ready?”

Whether I am or not doesn’t matter. The plan’s been set in motion.

Devin entwines our fingers together during the elevator ride to the spa level. It feels almost like a last, desperate attempt to hold on to something that’s rapidly changing. That’s exactly what’s happening.

Releasing my hand, he leads me from the elevator, not slowing until we reach the spa. He half turns toward me and holds up one palm. “Wait here.”

He disappears through the fancy, wooden double doors and a wave of trepidation shudders through me. What I’m planning for tonight could really encourage both of the people I love to walk away. I can’t screw this up. Can’t cause emotionalpain to either Devin or Keni. My emotions are plummeting when the spa doors open and…

My mouth drops open. I can’t tear my eyes from the vision before me. Keni hesitates, her fingers fluttering as she smooths her skirt. Finally, with Devin’s encouragement, she walks toward me.

“God, Kendall, you’re beautiful.”

Her cheeks turn pinker under her barely noticeable makeup and she stops, spreading her arms and looking down at herself. “It is a nice dress.”

Grabbing her hands, I keep her arms spread wide. The low, scooped neckline of her dress—she’s wearing a dress—shows off the lush swell of her breasts. Below the enticing view, the silky material flows over her body, the full skirt falling in soft, vertical waves to half way between her knees and ankles. Flat, strappy sandals match the main color of the cloud-like dress. “Keni, you’re always beautiful.”

She gives a soft snort. “Not like this.”

“You’d be beautiful wearing anything, darlin’. Or nothing at all.”

Her eyes go wide and I realize what I’ve said but before I can backtrack and apologize, Devin joins us.

He hands me an envelope. “Your reservation at Elissi is in half an hour. I had a hell of a time getting it, so for once, don’t be late. Then the license and thechapel address are in here. The officiant is expecting you at nine, although that time can depend on any other wedding parties that may or may not show up. The valet is fetching the car.”

“Are you sure?—”

“No, I am not going with you. You’ll both be fine. Everything is arranged. Have an expensive meal, then go get fake married. We’ll… talk… in the morning.”

Keni kisses his cheek. “Thank you, Devin. I could never look this good without your help. Without you.”

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