Chapter 8
I was frantically blow-drying my hair when Oliver's knock came at the bathroom door.
"Sweetheart," he called, his voice muffled through the wood. "We should leave in fifteen minutes. Are you ready?"
I glanced at my reflection, hair wild and face bare. "Almost!" I lied, wincing. "Just putting on the finishing touches!"
In truth, I was nowhere near ready. I'd spent too long under the cold spray, trying to calm my nerves and cool my overheated skin. Now I was scrambling to make up for lost time.
As I hurried through my makeup routine, keeping it light due to the oppressive heat, my mind raced through our plans. Vlad was en route to Westchester to collect my parents, Lisa, Diane, and Benny. Oliver had secured rooms at The Diamond Square for them overnight. Laura, already in the city, would join my bridesmaids at Sadie's in the morning to prepare.
Oliver would be spending the night at Wilmer's, meeting his groomsmen there to dress for our wedding. Matthew had agreed to watch Trouble during our honeymoon. It all felt so surreal – months of planning finally coming to fruition.
I slipped into the floral dress I'd chosen for the rehearsal, pairing it with strappy white sandals and my favorite teardrop diamond earrings. A swipe of strawberry-flavored lip gloss completed the look.
When I emerged from the bedroom, I found Oliver in the living room, engaged in a playful tug-of-war with Trouble. My breath caught as he stood, revealing his impeccable outfit: black slacks, a crisp lavender shirt, and a sleek black tie. His freshly cut hair was styled into a short fade, the top neatly arranged with pomade. I was pleased to see he'd left a hint of scruff – just the way I loved him best.
"You look handsome," I said, my voice soft with admiration.
Oliver's eyes lit up as he took me in. "And you're gorgeous," he said, his tone dreamy. "How did I get so lucky?"
A blush crept up my cheeks as I smiled back at him. "Funny, I've asked myself the same thing."
"Ready to go?" he asked, offering his arm.
I nodded, linking my arm through his. "If you are."
He pulled me close, burying his face in my hair and inhaling deeply. As I pressed my head to his chest, I felt a quiet rumble. I knew we were both thinking the same thing.
"Twenty-four hours," I murmured, both excited and nervous.
Oliver's arms tightened around me. "Will you be all right by yourself tonight?"
I pulled back slightly, meeting his concerned gaze. "Yes, I'll be fine."
"Trouble won't be here," he reminded me. "Vlad's dropping him off after the rehearsal dinner."
"I know," I assured him. "It'll be fine. Brenda is staying with me."
Oliver's brow furrowed. "I didn't ask her to."
"I did," I admitted, averting my eyes.
His frown deepened. "You don't feel safe?"
I bit my lip, considering how to explain the swirl of emotions I'd been grappling with. It wasn't just about safety – it was the enormity of what tomorrow would bring.
"It's not that," I began, searching for the right words. "It's just... everything. Tomorrow's a big day, and I thought having Brenda here might help keep me calm."
“You could always stay at The Diamond Square. I could get you a suite.”
I shook my head. “It’s not necessary. I’ll be up early and over to Sadie’s. She’s having a catered breakfast while we get our hair, makeup and nails done. Thank you for the gift.”
“Nothing but the best for you. I didn’t want everyone to trek to the salon.”
We separated and he took my hand to lead me downstairs. Vlad was waiting with the limo to take us to the hotel.
My head was spinning as we entered The Diamond Square for dinner. The room Oliver chose was immense, far larger than what our party of forty required. I had invited my extended family, and Oliver's groomsmen had brought dates. I picked at my food, nerves gnawing at me as our upcoming nuptials loomed.
Oliver, after sharing a couple of shots of tequila with his groomsmen, finally sat down beside me.
"Not hungry?" he asked, his voice a soothing contrast to the chaos in my mind.
"Not really. I’m so nervous."
"Don’t be," he said, leaning over to kiss me softly on the cheek. "It'll be over before you know it, and we’ll be on our way to St. Croix for two weeks of well-deserved relaxation and sun."
I took a few sips of champagne and tried to eat the chicken marsala on my plate. I knew sleep would elude me tonight; I'd probably end up reading or having a drink to calm my racing thoughts. Next to me, Oliver dove into his prime rib and fingerling potatoes with gusto. Just as he took a bite of potato, his phone rang.
"Excuse me, sweetheart," he said, standing up. He walked to the corner of the room, but his voice carried over the music, especially when I heard Jonah's name. Oliver's face tightened as he spoke, his hand movements growing more animated—a clear sign he was upset. After a few minutes, he returned to the table.
"What was that about?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Nothing you should concern yourself with," he replied, a bit too dismissively for my liking.
"Don’t fucking patronize me," I hissed, the tension finally boiling over.
"You have enough to worry about tomorrow. You don’t need this too."
"What don’t I need?" I pressed, my patience wearing thin.
"They found Jonah."
I gasped. "Where? Is he alive?"
"He’s alive, but a little worse for wear. I told them to hold him on Fox Island."
I groaned, frustration and worry mixing into a heavy knot in my stomach. "I’m sorry, but I don’t want your brother disturbing our honeymoon."
"He’s staying in the employee’s quarters. He’ll return with us, and then I'll figure out what to do with him."
"Jonah doesn’t listen, and I don’t want to be restricted on our honeymoon."
Oliver grinned, leaning closer. "You mean you don’t want him to see you naked in the moonlight?" he whispered, his breath warm against my ear.
"Maybe," I said softly, twisting my napkin in my lap. "I just don't need you to be upset by him."
Oliver reached across the table, gently taking my hand. "Security will keep an eye on him. We already have four agents there. He isn't going anywhere."
I exhaled, some of the tension leaving my shoulders. "Good. Let him stay on his part of the island. I want to enjoy my time with you without distraction."
A warm smile spread across Oliver's face. "And there will be none. Wait until you see the house. I had a few things done so we can tour the island easier."
My eyes lit up at the thought. "I want to skinny dip in the lagoon," I whispered, leaning in close.
Oliver's thumb traced circles on my palm. "We will. I promise that and more."
He leaned in, placing a soft kiss on my lips before returning to his meal. I set my fork down, draining the last of my champagne. An attentive waiter appeared almost instantly to refill my flute.
My gaze drifted around the room, taking in the sight of our friends and family enjoying the evening. My parents were taking turns holding Teagan, and a pang of sadness hit me as I thought of my father's absence. Anders and my mother would be walking me down the aisle tomorrow in his stead.
"Ryleigh?" Oliver's voice pulled me from my thoughts.
I blinked, focusing on his concerned expression. "Sorry, I was thinking."
"About your father?" he asked gently.
My eyebrows rose in surprise. "How did you know?"
A sad smile played on his lips. "I just did."
I studied his face, noting the flicker of emotion in his eyes. "You've been thinking about your parents?"
Oliver nodded, his voice soft. "Yes. They would've loved to see me married. I was a bit of a player when I was a teenager. They thought I would be a bachelor my entire life."
"You were only nineteen when they died," I reminded him, reaching out to squeeze his hand.
"And never had a steady girlfriend," he added with a rueful chuckle.
I tilted my head, curiosity getting the better of me. "Did you ever, even before me?"
Oliver shook his head. "No. I didn't have time. You know my history."
A warmth spread through my chest as I gazed at him. "I'm glad you picked me."
His eyes softened, filled with love. "Not more than I am. You make me whole. You were the missing piece to my life."
I leaned against him, savoring the feel of his arm wrapping around me. As we sat there, surrounded by the warmth and laughter of our loved ones, I couldn't help but think about tomorrow. Our wedding day. The start of our forever.
I jolted awake, my heart hammering against my ribs. Brenda's concerned face swam into focus above me, her usually flawless features etched with worry.
"Miss Stewart, are you all right?" she asked, her voice gentle but firm.
I blinked, trying to shake off the lingering tendrils of my nightmare. "I... I had a bad dream," I managed, my voice hoarse.
Brenda perched on the edge of my bed; her pajamas rumpled from sleep. "You woke me. I heard you screaming from my bedroom."
Guilt washed over me. "I'm so sorry," I mumbled, pushing myself up against the headboard.
She waved off my apology. " Do you want to talk about it?"
I shook my head, running a hand through my tangled hair. "No, it's the usual. Just wedding stress, I think. It's been a few weeks since I had one this bad."
"In just a few hours, you'll be married," Brenda reminded me, a small smile playing on her lips.
I glanced at the clock: 5:15 a.m. In less than two hours, I'd need to be up and preparing for the whirlwind day ahead. My stomach fluttered with a mix of excitement and nerves.
"Thank you," I said, offering Brenda a weak smile. "You can go back to sleep."
She hesitated, studying my face. "As long as you're all right."
A question bubbled up, surprising even me. "Brenda, have you ever been married?"
She settled more comfortably on the bed, her expression softening. "No, but I came close. I was engaged when I was your age."
"It didn't work out?" I asked, curiosity piqued.
Brenda's gaze grew distant. "We were both in security. When you travel constantly, the time you spend with loved ones is minimal. It just... fell apart."
I tilted my head, considering her words. "Will you ever get married?"
A wistful smile crossed her face. "One day. I want to have children."
"It must be hard working this way," I mused. "Your job is almost twenty-four seven."
Brenda shrugged, her smile turning more genuine. "It's not really. Mr. Fox pays us well to do what we do. I enjoy my work, and I get to go to places I might never see otherwise."
I frowned, unconvinced. "But it must be difficult sometimes."
"Sometimes," she admitted. "But I love it. Maybe in a year or two, I'll think differently and want to settle down, but not right now."
She patted my foot and stood, heading back to her room. I turned onto my side, watching as the first rays of sunlight painted the patio before spilling through the window. The anxiety in my stomach didn't subside, but it mellowed into a more manageable buzz of anticipation.
When my alarm finally went off, I dragged myself out of bed. Four hours until I needed to be at my brother's apartment. Four hours closer to becoming Mrs. Fox.
The thought of our five hundred and thirty-two guests made my head spin. The chapel at The SW could seat three hundred, but I was certain there'd be standing room only. I tried to push the image from my mind as I drew a bath, pouring in lime basil beads.
My reflection in the mirror looked pale and tired – something I doubted coffee could fix, but makeup certainly would. I soaked in the tub for nearly an hour, refreshing the water and scrolling through social media, allowing myself a few posts of my own.
After a quick shower to rinse off the bubbles and wash my hair, I wrapped myself in a fluffy towel. I pulled my damp hair into a ponytail and changed into white shorts and a powder blue shirt – the same shade as the bridesmaid dresses I'd chosen.
As I stood there, staring at my reflection, the reality of the day ahead finally hit me. In just a few hours, I'd be walking down the aisle towards Oliver. Towards our future. Despite the lingering nerves, a smile spread across my face. Whatever challenges lay ahead, we'd face them together.
I found Brenda dressed, reading a magazine and drinking a bottle of water when I came into the kitchen. She looked up at me and smiled.
"Are you feeling okay this morning?" Brenda asked, her eyes scanning my face with concern.
I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Nervous as fuck. I wish we'd eloped."
She chuckled, shaking her head. "I doubt that. You'll look back at this time and be happy you had a big wedding. You'll have plenty of pictures and memories."
"I'm sure you're right," I admitted, fidgeting with the hem of my shirt. "I just want the ceremony to be over. I hope I don't screw up."
Brenda placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "If you do, you do. Who's going to question you?"
A smile tugged at my lips as I thought of Oliver. "I can't wait to see him."
"He can't wait to see you in your dress," Brenda said, a knowing look in her eyes. "He was talking to Vlad the other day."
My eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Does he do that often? It seems he only talks to him about security things."
Brenda leaned against the doorframe, crossing her arms. "They both like to keep it professional, but there are times they interact on a social level."
"Interesting," I mused, tapping my fingers against the counter. "I've only seen the professional part of it."
Glancing at her watch, Brenda asked, "When are you planning to head over to your brother's place?"
I checked the clock on the wall. "It's only nine. I guess in another hour and a half. I should've worked out this morning. I have so much nervous energy."
"You deserve a break," Brenda said softly, her tone understanding.
I shrugged, pacing the room. "I'll have it for the next two weeks. I wonder how Oliver is going to avoid calling into the office."
"He'll manage," Brenda assured me, but I could hear the doubt in her voice.
"I'm not sure," I muttered, biting my lip.
Changing my mind about having coffee, I headed back to my bedroom. My phone sat on the nightstand, its screen lit up with a notification. My heart skipped a beat as I saw Oliver's name.
With slightly trembling fingers, I picked up the phone, eager to see what message my soon-to-be husband had sent me on our wedding day.
I miss you. Last night was the worst one yet. I’m never agreeing to sleep separately again.
I chuckled to myself because Oliver seemed to be the one who was strong and now I saw he was faltering like me.
I gave you the chance to change your mind yesterday morning so you’re the stubborn one.
You forget, you’re the one that made the decision in the first place.
It was a bad decision; one I’ll never make again. I’ll see you this afternoon.
I’ll be the handsome devil at the end of the aisle.
I chuckled, posting a few more things on social media before double-checking my suitcase to make sure I had everything for our trip to Fox Island. Tonight would be a whirlwind, and our plane was scheduled to leave LaGuardia Airport at 8:00 a.m. sharp.
Satisfied with my packing, I slipped outside onto the patio, shedding my flip-flops to feel the thick grass under my feet. It tickled, a pleasant distraction. Oliver had a maintenance crew come up weekly to trim it with a hand mower he kept in a small shed in the corner of the patio.
The sun felt glorious on my face. I turned towards it, closing my eyes as its warmth seeped into me. The second to last day of July was proving to be a gorgeous one. The sky was nearly cloudless, and the humidity had mercifully dropped since yesterday. It felt like a good omen, a promise of a bright start to our marriage.
At 10:30, I walked back into the penthouse and washed my feet. I grabbed my phone and texted Vlad, asking him to meet me out front.
Anticipation buzzed under my skin, a mix of nerves and excitement. As I waited for Vlad, I couldn't help but think about the journey ahead. Oliver and I were about to step into a new chapter, one filled with promise and adventure.
"Mom, don’t cry," I said gently as Sadie and Laura helped pin my lace veil with its tiny beading to the top of my head. I caught my reflection in the mirror and marveled at the transformation. Rachel and Rigo Vicaria had outdone themselves.
The dress was stunning—one of a kind with a sweetheart neckline, illusion lace back, beading cascading down the bodice, and a long train with lace cap sleeves. It hugged my hips and flared out below. Oliver would lose his mind when he saw me.
The hair stylist had crafted a messy updo with my mahogany tresses, letting tendrils frame my face. My makeup and French manicure were flawless. Around my neck, I wore the diamond necklace Oliver had sent over with Raquel as a wedding gift. In my ears were my beloved teardrop diamond earrings, and on my wrist was my father’s watch. I wanted him with me today.
"How can I not?" my mom said, her voice quivering. "You’re beautiful. I wish your father could see you."
My eyes filled with tears, and Sadie quickly pressed a tissue to them to prevent my makeup from smudging. "He does see me," I said, sniffling and dabbing my nose.
My mother embraced me, and I clung to her like a small child. When we pulled apart, the photographer captured the moment. He’d been with us all morning, documenting every stage of preparation, from hair and makeup to the candid shots of us enjoying the catered breakfast and joking around.
Anxiety tightened my stomach, and I took a much-needed break, retreating to Sadie and Finley’s bedroom where Teagan was napping. I stroked her soft hair, watching her peaceful sleep. Maybe in a few years, I would have a little girl of my own, spoiled by Oliver just as much as he spoiled me. The future was full of possibilities.
I sat on the corner of the bed, exhausted and tempted to join my niece in sleep. In less than an hour, I would be standing before hundreds of people, saying my vows. My phone rang, pulling me from my daydream.
“Oliver, you can’t call me,” I said, answering with a mix of surprise and amusement.
“Don’t be ridiculous. I can’t see you through the phone,” he teased, his voice a comforting presence.
“Why are you calling? Do you have cold feet?”
“Not at all. I was calling to find out if you have cold feet. Say you’re still marrying me,” he pleaded.
“Now who’s being ridiculous? Of course I’m marrying you. It’s all I’ve thought of since you slipped the ring on my finger.”
“If that were true, you would’ve eloped with me,” Oliver teased, his voice warm with affection.
“I offered,” I replied, smiling at the memory.
“You did. I should’ve taken it,” he said with a hint of regret.
“Where are you?” I asked, curious about his whereabouts.
“At The SW,” he answered nonchalantly.
“Why? We’re not getting married for almost an hour,” I pointed out, glancing at the clock.
“I’m having a drink with the boys,” he admitted.
“One drink,” I warned, knowing his friends' penchant for celebration.
“Of course. Do you think I would be drunk on our wedding day?” he chuckled, trying to reassure me.
“Nerves could take over,” I suggested, knowing how easily they could creep up.
“I’ll have you know, Miss Stewart, that I’m calm and cool,” he declared confidently.
“I’m glad one of us is. I’m nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs,” I confessed, my voice trembling slightly.
Oliver started laughing, the sound both comforting and infectious. “Why?” he asked, genuinely curious.
“We have over five hundred guests coming. I’m afraid I’ll trip or say the wrong thing,” I admitted, voicing my fears.
“No one is going to fault you for being nervous. Just keep your mind on tonight,” he advised gently.
“What’s tonight?” I asked, momentarily distracted from my anxiety.
“Our wedding night. We have some making up to do for this past week. I plan to fuck you until you pass out.”
My belly clenched and I was sure my expensive Boudoir Fashion panties were dampening.
"Don’t say that," I croaked, feeling the tension build.
“Why not? It’s true. I can’t wait to get you alone,” Oliver replied, his voice low and full of promise.
“You could’ve had me yesterday morning,” I reminded him, my tone playful.
“Nope. I was keeping my side of the bargain even if you wanted to break it,” he said with a chuckle.
I heard a knock on the door and sighed. “I have to go, Oliver. I love you,” I said reluctantly, ending the call.
“Come in,” I called out, turning toward the door.
Sadie walked in, her expression softening as she checked on Teagan. “She’s still asleep? I need to wake and breastfeed her before I leave,” she explained.
“I wish she was old enough to be my flower girl,” I said wistfully, watching the peaceful baby.
“She probably will be old enough by the time Finley and I get married,” Sadie replied with a hopeful smile.
“Any movement on that?” I asked, curious about their plans.
“He’s so busy I’m surprised he took off for your wedding,” she said, a hint of frustration in her voice.
“But at least he’s home with you,” I pointed out, trying to find the silver lining.
“Not for long. He has a slew of projects coming up that he needs to be in the office to handle. I’m thankful for Oliver helping, but it’s making Finley twice as busy,” she admitted, her worry clear.
“That’s a good thing. You guys are stable now,” I said, trying to reassure her.
She frowned, and I knew I had put my foot in my mouth. “What do you mean?” she asked, her tone sharp.
“I just mean his company has a steady stream of clients and more money coming in,” I clarified, hoping to ease the tension.
“What do you know?” she pressed, suspicion in her eyes.
“Christ, Sadie, stop giving me the third degree. Nothing is wrong,” I snapped, feeling cornered.
"But there was something wrong, wasn’t there? Oliver didn’t just give Finley money to help with expansion, did he?” Sadie's voice was tense, her eyes boring into mine.
“You have to promise not to say anything to my brother. He would kill me if he knew I told you,” I said, lowering my voice and glancing towards the door as if Finley might walk in at any moment.
“I promise,” she replied, her expression serious.
I took a deep breath before continuing. “Finley was having some financial issues. He overextended himself and was thinking about selling this apartment.”
A worried look crossed her pretty face, and creases formed in her forehead. “Was he going bankrupt?” she asked, her voice trembling slightly.
“No, not that bad. He had money coming in but not until after he finished the projects he was working on. He hired more employees to get those projects and upcoming ones finished, but his bank account was lean. Oliver made an investment to help,” I explained.
“Are we okay?” Sadie asked, her eyes searching mine for reassurance.
“More than fine. When news got out that Oliver was involved with Finley, the clients rolled in. Finley changed the deposit structure, so everything is great,” I said with a smile.
“I would’ve been okay if we had to move. I know Finley’s company means everything to him,” she said, her voice softening.
“You and Teagan mean more. He would do anything for you,” I assured her, reaching out to squeeze her hand.
Sadie’s eyes sparkled with unshed tears. “You look beautiful in your dress,” she said, changing the subject.
“So do you. That shade of blue suits you,” I replied, admiring her gown.
“I love this dress,” she said, twirling slightly.
The dresses I chose were long gowns made of lace and chiffon in powder blue with a keyhole back and an A-line skirt. They were sleeveless and looked lovely on all my bridesmaids. I had them put their hair up like mine. “I think Finley will too.”
“He already saw it,” she admitted with a shy smile.
Teagan started to stir in her crib, and Sadie went to her. “I’ll give you some privacy so you can feed her. Will twenty minutes be enough time? We’re leaving soon.”
“Should be plenty. She doesn’t eat that long,” Sadie replied, picking up her daughter.
I left the room, closing the door softly behind me so Sadie could take care of Teagan. Today was bound to be a nerve-wracking day for her and Finley, especially since they were leaving Teagan with Sadie’s aunt to attend the wedding. As I walked back to the main room, I couldn’t help but think about how much love and support surrounded me. Despite the nerves and the chaos, everything was going to be just fine.