Page 33 of Valentine's Dates

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She moved toward him, her long white dress swirling around her bare feet, the little bells attached to an anklet she wore on her right leg barely audible over the music and whispers of the crowd.

He heard the celebrant say something, but his attention was completely on his bride-to-be and the damn bells she’d promised to wear.

And she knew it.

Her lips kicked up on one end and the sparkle in her eyes told him she had more ways to dazzle him planned.

As she drew closer he checked the urge to meet her halfway. Not that he cared what anyone else thought, but Morgan might take offense to being pushed aside.

He’d been shocked and please when she had suggested their friend walk her down the aisle. She’d wanted Wade to stand up for him as best man and insisted it was the more important role of the two.

It had taken some convincing, but eventually Wade had seen the wisdom of the move. To say Morgan had been thrilled with Vee’s request was an understatement.

And as the two of them made their way the last few steps, his friend still had a proud smile on his face.

The ceremony went off without a hitch. There were photos and toasts and finger food, and he soon found himself separated from his new wife.

People milled about on the lawn in their designer-best. Spotting her over on the terrace, he made his way across the lawn.

Sneaking up behind her, he slipped his arms around her waist and pulled her in close. “Are you having a good time?” he asked.

“It’s been the best date of my life.” She turned her head and kissed his jaw.

“I’m glad. I wasn’t sure you’d go for the whole Valentine’s Day wedding.”

“You do realize I accepted this date for a reason.”

“My good looks and charm?”

“Mm, those are certainly a bonus. But what I’m after is a second date.”

“A second date?”

“Same time next year?”

“You want to do this again?” He glanced around them.

“Well not quite this elaborate, but yes, same date every year for the rest of our lives.” She spun in his arms and stood on her toes to whisper in his ear. “And I’ll take your heart.”

“A lifetime of Valentine’s dates?” He pretended to ponder the request. “I suppose I can manage that, but I’m afraid I can’t let you take my heart. I have no control of that traitorous organ. It was stolen years ago and never returned.”

She laughed. “That was one of those sneak attacks I’m so good at.”

“Valentine Coleman, there was nothing sneaky about it. You marched right in and plucked that thing out like you owned it. And you do. Then, now, always.”

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