Chapter 4

OLIVIA’S POV

It was D-Day!

We got up early to finish up everything. As we put up chairs in the garden and placed flowers on the tables, the house was abuzz with excitement.

The last two days had been filled up with plannings for the wedding— decor, food, seat arrangements and all the works

 By now, I was physically and mentally drained. 

I wanted it to be perfect for my mom, the simple, romantic wedding she wanted, and she was delighted at how I and Alicia had gotten everything done to her taste.

Now that everything was set up, the time we had been waiting for had come. As the visitors started to arrive, there was a lot of laughter and conversation in the garden. The hard part was yet to come and Alicia wasn't making it any easier.

“So… how do you feel about walking down the aisle with your crush?”

I hissed.

“Alicia stop it!” I looked around to see if anyone heard her.

“What!” She whispered harshly.

Then she held her chest dramatically in shock and gasped, “Don’t tell me you still like Dante!”

I didn't get to answer her question, as I was asked to go next. Thankfully!

I left her looking bewildered at me.

No one wants to hear that you have feelings for your stepbrother… not even your best friend!

It was finally time for us to start the match down the aisle, and Dante walked briskly to me and presented his arm like a prince asking a princess for a dance. 

I shook those thoughts from my mind as much as I could.

He was the groom's man and I was the bridesmaid. Period!

But, I had not been looking forward to this part at all. Not just because of the moment we had back then in the kitchen, but because of the setting that looked like we were getting married. 

He was in a sharp three-piece tuxedo, with well shined shoes. His hair was perfectly styled. He looked like he could be a model on the front cover of Vogue magazine. and he looked at me with that silly grin and my stomach flipped. His hazel eyes twinkled with mischief.

I blinked rapidly as I averted my eyes from his face. I was sick of feeling this way whenever I got close to him, but I couldn't help it. 

I had tried to make myself as scarce as possible, so we wouldn't have to run into each other. 

“Are you avoiding me stepsis?" He said as soon as we began the walk. I looked ahead and kept my face in a smiling position but I couldn't stop the start of a blush creeping up my face.

 “Wh-what? Why would you think so?” I stuttered.

“Really?” He asked.

I didn't respond.

He leaned down, and my breath caught.

What was he doing?

My eyes must have looked alarmed.

Then he whispered, "One would think you'd be more open to someone you consider very hot. If my memory serves me right…"

I used my other palm that wasn't entangled in his to pat my now flaming cheeks.

I heard him chuckle, knowing the effect he was having on me.

What an asshole!

But I'd be lying if I said his low hum laughter didn't do things to my insides. 

We managed to make it to the altar without any more words.

Then Mum began walking down the aisle, I saw Alex sniff and it brought tears to my eyes. I was so happy Mom found someone who loved her as much as she loved him. 

Mum took her place next to Alex. She looked lovely in her simple vintage gown as she stood at the altar. I squeezed Alicia's hand, experiencing a wave of emotion.

As Mum and Alex exchanged vows, I found myself shedding a few tears. I was so happy for her!