Page 54 of How to Kill Your Rival

‘Don’t you dare cry,’ she says.

‘I’m not,’ I say.

‘If you cry, I’ll cry. And I don’t want to get mascara on my dress,’ she says.

‘I have something in my eye.’

‘Yeah, it’s called feelings. I know you’re a stranger to them,’ she giggles. ‘So you think this is the one?’

‘It’s absolutely the one. Are you excited?’

‘I can’t wait. Can’t believe I’m going to be a wife soon.’ She turns to face me. ‘Is that normal?’

‘I have absolutely no idea,’ I say. ‘Wrong person to ask.’

She smiles, her fingers drifting over the tiny stitched florals.

‘How did you know that Roman’s the right guy?’

‘Honestly?’ she says.

‘Yes,’ I say.

‘He’s never made me feel anything less than perfect. Even after I kidnapped him. Not when he had to help you chop up that massive guy. Not when I’m sick or hormonal. He makes me feel like I deserve love, just as I am.’

‘That’s it?’

She looks at me.

‘He makes me feel safe. Like I can just be Maggie, even the bits that are a lot for other people.’

I look at her in the mirror, admiring how lovely she looks.

‘I’m so happy for you, Mags.’

‘You could have this too, you know.’

‘Don’t,’ I say.

‘It’s weird that his mum married our dad, but James has idolised you forever. You could do worse.’

Truth is, he could do much better. Men may find me hot, but I’ve never been good at prioritising anything over work. James deserves someone who can give him everything, not just a quick fuck.

‘Go get changed,’ I say. ‘I’ll buy you lunch.’

* * *

Two days later, I’m sitting at the dining table eating the best eggs Benedict I’ve ever tasted. Chef has really outdone himself this morning.

James walks into the room holding a laptop, and I start. I hadn’t realised he was in Scotland.

‘Hey,’ he says.

‘Hey back at you. Have your scratches gone?’ A thrill washes through me as his cheeks redden.

‘Um, yes. Thank you.’

‘I can think of better ways you could thank me. You could mosey on under the table and have your breakfast between my legs.’ The red face deepens, and I laugh.