Chapter 14
14
Grant
After Greer signs the papers, I leave the guest room so she can get ready. Aimée is waiting outside the door, likely so she could hear what we were saying. Good. I hope she heard every fucking word because I meant it. Charles might have won this round, but I’m going to win the war.
Pulling my phone out, I call Somya. “I’m getting married today.”
She laughs, but then goes silent as she realizes I’m serious.
“Sir?”
“You heard me. I’m marrying Greer Blanc. Make sure we spin this story so she comes out smelling like roses. Understand?”
“Yes, sir.” I hear her fingers moving over her keyboard on her computer. “Greer Blanc of Dallas, Texas. Age thirty-two? An activist who used to work for HYPE?”
“That’s her. I want an announcement made in an hour. Make sure they know we’re going out of the country to celebrate after the ceremony.”
“How long will you be gone?”
“When’s the next fundraiser?”
“One week in Denver.”
“We’ll be back in one week. See you soon, Somya.”
“Enjoy your honeymoon, sir.” She pauses. “I’ll make sure Corbin is sitting when I break the news.”
I’m laughing as I end the call.
“Well, you’re certainly in a good mood.”
I turn, facing Charles.
“It’s my wedding day. Of course, I’m in a good mood.”
Charles smiles but makes no moves to come closer. Smart man. Because I’m tempted to slap the shit out of him, Head Elite Member or not.
I say, “It is strange, though.
“What’s that?”
“I believe I asked you not to say anything to Greer and yet you rushed from the meeting to do just that.”
His shoulder lifts in a shrug. “She is my cousin. It’s my duty to look after her.”
“Just so we’re clear, I’ll be the one looking after her from now on. Understand?”
“No need to get defensive. You know this is what the Brotherhood has wanted for years. It’s time for both of you to uphold your end of the deal.”
I bite back a snort. I made a deal with the Brotherhood when I joined, but Greer never asked for any of this.
I say, “Just as I expect you to uphold yours.”
His gaze hardens. “What is that supposed to mean?”
“The Brotherhood vowed to support me in the election. I expect that to happen, or we’re going to have problems.”
“You don’t order me around, boy. I’m still the Head Elite Member.”
“For now,” I say with a small smile.
His eyes widen. “You dare threaten me?”
“Simply pointing out the obvious. Old Elite Members seem to be dropping like flies these days.”
His face turns bright red. “The others will hear about this. As for the election, the Brotherhood will support the best candidate for the job.”
With that, he shoves past me. I wait a beat before making my way downstairs. When I’m in the foyer, I send Brooks a text.
Brooks
Wedding is happening today, courtesy of Charles.
Congratulations, man!
How did the bride take the news?
She was unsure at first, but agreed to marry me. She’s getting ready as we speak.
Especially after I showed her the papers I had drawn up.
Do I even want to know?
She gets everything if anything happens to me.
Not going to point out that you ripped off my idea.
It was a good idea.
I’m guessing something is up, though, or you wouldn’t be reaching out.
I don’t trust Blanc. I still think he’s up to something.
No one trusts Blanc, but I understand what you mean. He sent a message today, saying the Brotherhood will be announcing who they’re supporting in the election.
I think he’s going to back Walt Ryans.
There’s no way! That man is a monster.
As Moretti pointed out, it benefits Blanc to have people he can trust surrounding him.
I don’t know if I should be happy or terrified that you’re taking advice from Ace.
Ha. Ha.
In all seriousness, if Blanc is going to support Ryans, then that means the Brotherhood will follow. What are you going to do?
First, I’m going to marry Greer and go on my honeymoon.
And then?
And then I’m going to secure my presidential run.
No matter what.
You know I’ve got your back. I’ll reach out and see who else we can count on.
You’re a good man, Brooks.
Tucking my phone in my pocket, I exhale. My peace is short-lived as a man walks up to me.
“Mr. Carter, I’m Pastor Ferrums.” He holds out his hand. “Nice to meet you, sir.”
I shake his hand. “Nice to meet you, too.”
“It’s an honor to perform your ceremony. I was wondering if you have your own vows or if you’d like me to keep it short and sweet?”
I think. “Let’s do short and sweet. My bride and I have a flight to catch.”
He smiles. “Young love.”
“Indeed.”
“I was told the ceremony will take place in the courtyard. Do you mind showing me where that is?”
“Of course.”
As we walk, Pastor Ferrums asks, “And how long have you known Ms. Blanc?”
“A long time.” I smile, remembering the first time I met her. “Her father and grandfather were my mentors.”
“How lovely. I hope you don’t mind me saying, but I didn’t know you were seeing anyone.”
“Ms. Blanc and I agreed to keep our relationship under the radar,” I lie smoothly. “I’m sure you’ll be seeing a lot of us in the upcoming days.”
The pastor smiles. “I’m sure I will.”
We step outside, and I find that the courtyard has been transformed. A floral arch with white roses sits on the stone patio. There aren’t any chairs, but I guess that makes sense since it’s going to be a small wedding party. My chest pangs. Is this the kind of wedding Greer saw for herself? Will she feel like she’s been cheated? I rub the spot over my heart. If she does, I’ll make sure she has the wedding of her dreams. One where all our friends can attend.
Pastor Ferrums says, “I’m going to take a moment to prepare my speech.”
I dip my head and watch as the man wanders toward the flowerbed on the other side of the courtyard. There’s something familiar about him, but I can’t place my finger on it. Of course, I meet so many people on the campaign trail, so maybe that’s it.
Exhaling, I look up at the blue sky.
Greer is marrying me.
Fuck.
I’m the luckiest man alive.
My mind races. We’re going to face obstacles, that’s certain. But nothing can take away the fact that she agreed to marry me.
I smile.
Lucky, indeed.