The Fabled (27 page)

“Hey. She means that in a totally platonic,
not gay kind of way. ‘Cause I don’t swing that way if you know what
I mean.”

“She’s? Oh. Oooh, I see. Whoo, that’s a
relief. It’s nice to meet you, Brennan.” She turned back to the
mirror and returned to working on her makeup.

“Uh, it’s nice to meet you too. I think.”

She looked at me and I put my finger to my
temple before twirling it around in a universal sign for crazy.
Brennan nodded enthusiastically. I had better tread lightly with K
this evening. She was wound up tighter than Dick’s hatband.

“So, other than the whole crazy face you look
beautiful tonight.”

Her eyes narrowed at my reflection in the
mirror.

“You’re late. I wanted you here hours ago so
you could help me get ready.”

“You didn’t include that in your little care
package.”

“That dress looks great on you by the
way.”

“Thank you. I really like it. Your dress is
amazing of course. Marcus is lucky to have found you.”

K has an eye for fashion and her dress was
perfect. It was a slim fit instead of something poufy and it fit
her like a glove.

K came back to me with renewed makeup and
hugged me tightly.

“I’m so glad you’re here, Sunny. You always
know just what to say to keep me on track. Marcus is like that. He
knows how help me without smothering me too. I am a lucky
woman.”

“Aw. Shucks.”

She punched my arm. “Take the compliment. It
won’t kill you.”

“Thank you K. I consider myself lucky too.
Mostly because you haven’t killed me yet.”

“Ha, ha. Now come over here and meet my other
friends before the wedding begins.”

She told me there was no time for a practice
session and something told me she was lying. Why, I don’t know but
I wasn’t going to argue. At eight o’clock on the dot a no nonsense
looking woman entered the room and threw a bouquet in my hand. Then
she passed out the rest to the other three bridesmaids and told us
to get into position. I wasn’t the only who looked lost so Miss
No-nonsense pushed us out the door then guided me toward a set of
double doors that led outside. She looked at us sternly.

“The men are lined up already. Wait for the
music before exiting. Don’t forget to walk with the music. The last
thing we need is some speed walker messing things up.”

“Aye, aye cap’n.” I mock saluted and she gave
me the evil eye before walking away.

Brennan took her place. “I’m going to follow
the queen bitch and find a seat. I’ll see ya after.”

I nodded and she took off after the wedding
coordinator.

“I’m so glad you were able to calm Karen.
She’s been a wreck all evening.”

I turned to the blonde in front of me. K had
introduced her earlier as Rebecca. She was slightly taller than me
with long beautiful blonde hair she had pinned up leaving a few
strands down to hang in ringlets over her shoulders.

I smiled at her. “Seems I have a way with
calming her. Probably just because she knows I can’t tolerate her
acting like a psycho. I’ve got that covered for the both of
us.”

She laughed. “Between you and me, I’m just
ready for this part to be over with so we can get the real party
started. Have you seen the men Marcus has in his party?”

“Afraid not.”

“Whoo. I’ll take two. Especially the best
man. Me and that Vampere have a date. He just doesn’t realize it
yet.” She winked at me.

“Vampere?” Dread pooled in my stomach

I heard the music begin and one of the doors
was opened. One by one the bridesmaids made their way down the
aisle as I waited. Finally, K joined me by the door and I gave her
a brief hug before it was my turn to walk. She looked nervous so I
gave her a reassuring smile.

A hand was held out for me and I took it
before walking down the steps to the sidewalk leading up to a
beautifully decorated gazebo. I looked over to see it was Roman’s
hand I was holding. He smiled at me while holding his arm out and I
took it. No wonder K flipped out when I told her I had a date. She
was probably anticipating the fallout from Roman.

We walked down the aisle to the beat of the
music and when we got to the gazebo instead of releasing me and
going to his position he walked me to my spot then kissed me softly
before walking over to the groom’s side to stand beside Marcus. I
should have known he would be the best man. I had hoped his and K’s
past would have him uninvited or at the very least only invited as
a guest and not a member of the wedding party.

I searched the audience for Brennan and found
her on the third row seated next to Lucian. She caught my eye and
gave me a quick thumbs up. Then she looked meaningfully at Roman
and back to me before pretending to swoon. I rolled my eyes and she
smiled knowingly while nodding. My attention was pulled to K as she
started up the aisle. She looked absolutely beautiful in her
wedding dress. I was wrong. The rose in her cheeks made her look
like the ultimate blushing bride and I couldn’t be happier for
her.

When she arrived at the alter she handed me
her bouquet and I gave her a quick hug in return. She smiled at me
before turning her attention to Marcus who looked to be just as
mesmerized by her as everyone else in attendance.

The service was lovely with some traditional
parts and some customized just for them. They had written their own
vows that were both sincere and funny. And everyone laughed and
cried. When it came time for the rings Roman stepped forward and
handed them to Marcus. He made sure to wink at me as he stepped
back into position.

After the rings and their kiss which was
disgustingly romantic they walked back down the aisle as husband
and wife while the rest of the entourage followed. Roman held his
arm out smugly to me. As I took it he leaned forward and whispered
in my ear.

“You look very lovely in that dress,
Sunshine.”

I smiled at him. “Stuff it and walk,
Roman.”

He smiled back and we started down the aisle.
I tried to concentrate on walking to the music but my thoughts kept
coming back to him and what a fool I’ve been being where he’s
concerned. First, I let him take my excess magic knowing a
Vampere’s bite is erotic. Then I get drunk, call him and
practically beg him to take me. What was wrong with me? I know
Roman is bad news for my heart but I can’t seem to control myself.
No, those were isolated cases and in both I was under duress or
intoxicated. The pain was too much for me to be able to put up a
legitimate fight and, though getting drunk wasn’t my best idea, it
wasn’t really my fault I acted irrationally while under the
influence of alcohol. No, I don’t blame myself for these actions. I
blame him. He is the one trying to drag me right back under. Like
he said before, he always gets what he wants and what he wants is
me docile under his thumb. He probably doesn’t even care about me.
He sees an opportunity to have one of the strongest Fabled in
existence at his side and is playing his hand to see that
happens.

By the time we were back inside the hotel I
had made a resolution. I wouldn’t allow my emotions for Roman rule
my decisions anymore. I would keep my distance and do only what I
must in order to close my case then I would take a vacation or
something. Anything to get away from him. Sure I would have to talk
with him on occasion in order to see my son but I would bide my
time. Eventually Tristan will be old enough to venture out on his
own and I will be there for him then when I don’t have to go
through Roman to do it. Now, if I can just make it through the
reception I can do this. It should be easy. I’ll use Brennan as an
excuse to leave early. Just have a few drinks, toast the bride and
groom and get the hell outta here.

“May I escort you to our table, Sunshine?”
Roman hadn’t released my arm.

“I’m capable of making it across the dining
hall, Roman.”

“Oh, but it could be so much more pleasurable
with me.”

I shot him an ugly look and took my arm back.
Operation Vampere shoot-down is a go. I walked over to where Lucian
and Brennan had entered the room from the side door with the rest
of the guests.

“I’m glad you’re here, Lucian. I didn’t think
about having to sit at the table with the rest of the wedding
party.”

“I’m happy to be here, daughter. This is a
happy time for one of your dearest friends. I wouldn’t miss it. If
you would like me to bring Brennan home with me after the
reception, I could.”

I turned to Brennan.

“I’m cool with that as long as you’re not
going to ignore me all night for Mr. Tall-dark-and-fangy.” She
waggled her brows.

I smiled. “Wouldn’t dream of it.”

She winked at me. “Now, where’s the grub? I
didn’t get all dressed up for nothing.”

“You go find a seat and I’ll join you
afterward.” I gave her a hug and she turned to follow Lucian to a
table.

I slowly made my way to my table. Several of
the bridesmaids were already there as well as a couple of the
groomsmen. I realized there were name tags so I sat at the seat
designated for me. K joined me a minute later.

“Oh wow. That was amazing Sunny.”

“Yep. That was one of the most beautiful
wedding ceremonies I have ever seen. You looked amazing. I couldn’t
be happier for you.”

She hugged me hard. “Thanks. I know this
isn’t your thing but I’m really glad you’re here.”

“You know me. I’m a sucker for light
Elves.”

“I’m very glad to hear that.”

I turned to see a blonde man who looked very
much like K. He walked over and hugged her before turning to
me.

“Sunny, I’d like you to meet my brother
Killian.”

“Oh, so this is the infamous brother that
made your childhood such torture.”

He smiled. “I assure you it was the other way
around.” He bowed to me. “It is the most extreme pleasure to
finally meet you, Sunny.”

I raised a brow and K rolled her eyes.

“Can it, Kill. Sunny’s not interested in you
and your fancy talk.”

I laughed. “Couldn’t have said it better
myself.”

“Well, excuse me for trying to impress a
beautiful woman.”

I turned back to K. “You obviously never
mentioned me to him.”

“Only all the time. I can’t recall a
conversation with my little sister in the last half century without
her mentioning you. It has raised my interest quite a bit,” Killian
clarified.

“Not to mention all the talk about the Thief
and her abilities.”

“I will admit that is rather intriguing
too.”

I raised a brow and he moved closer to
whisper in my ear.

“I’ve always wondered if you were truly as
dangerous as they say. I’ll admit I find that rather
appealing.”

“You like to flirt with danger. I think
you’re in over your head.”

He stood back up and smiled. “We shall find
out.”

I smiled back.

“Ladies. If you’ll excuse me, I have a
designated seat I must occupy.” He winked at me. “I will see you
later.”

He walked over to the other side of the table
and I’ll admit it wasn’t a bad looking sight. I glanced at the
other side of Marcus to find Roman watching me. By his clenched jaw
he saw enough of our exchange to not like it. I raised a brow and
he raised on right back so I rolled my eyes and turned my attention
to K. Only, she was playing tonsil hockey with Marcus so I
pretended to straighten my dress. Anything to keep my eyes off of
them or the Vamp on the other side of them.

After a few minutes everyone settled and
dinner was served. I tried to eat some but it’s very uncomfortable
eating in front of a hundred people. The wedding table was set up
on a makeshift stage that was raised about two feet off the floor.
By the looks of it after the meal the table will be taken away and
the platform will serve as a dance floor. In the meantime it meant
we were the center of attention for all the tables surrounding
us.

Once the meal was finished there was a steady
crowd of people approaching the bride and groom congratulating
them. I decided to take the opportunity to go talk with my guest
for this shindig so I made my way across the room to their table.
There was another young gentleman having an in depth conversation
with Brennan as I sat down. She turned to me and rolled her
eyes.

“Will you tell this fool that fire beats ice
any day of the week?”

Okay, that wasn’t what I expected them to be
talking about. I eyed the guy. He looked to be maybe eighteen with
almost white hair and brows and glacier blue eyes.

“You’re pretty short for Jotunn, aren’t
you?”

His eyes narrowed. “Surely you of all people
know looks can be deceiving.”

I smiled. “True but I always expected Frost
Giants to be more…manly.”

“And I’m not manly.”

“Well, sure in a scrawny, teenager sort of
way.”

There was frost forming on his finger tips
and I saw Lucian lean forward slightly.

I smiled at the boy. “I’m just messing with
you. I’m Sunny by the way.” I held out my hand and he smiled at
me.

“You think I’m afraid to touch the
Thief?”

I shrugged and he took my hand. I let a small
amount of his magic fill a slot I’ve never filled before. As I
released his magic I smiled at him. Sometimes it’s just too easy to
use someone’s own insecurities against them. I turned to
Brennan.

“He’s strong. Really strong. But you’re
stronger so go easy on him.”

His eyes widened as her face split into a
smile.

“So what was that about dueling? You name the
time and I’m there buddy.”

His eyes narrowed at her.

“There will be no dueling for you, Brennan.
Not until you are sufficiently schooled in magic,” Lucian said
destroying her fun.

“Aw, come on Lucian. He was talking smack.
You heard him.”

I patted her shoulder. “I think that is
better known as flirting. Look it up.”