by Megan Noelle
“I just might. I’ll come and get you before announcing the first dance to make sure the two of you are ready. A double date would be a lot of fun too.”
“Sounds like a plan.” We parted and she went off into another family member’s arms to accept their wishes and praise. I paid no attention to the others around me; there was only one place I wanted to be.
Corey looked up when I was only about 40 feet away; when he noticed I was in fact going over to him, he whispered something into Sanders’s ear before walking to meet me. Before I reached him, his face split into the same goofy grin that was plastered on mine. His hands reached out, took either side of my face and without a second thought—his lips were on mine. This was probably one of the most inappropriate things to do at work, but the person paying me gave us permission. Besides, being surrounded by love and happiness was taking a strange toll on me.
When the kiss ended Corey’s hands left my face but wrapped around my waist, bringing me closer to him.
“You look so damn amazing, Danielle.” I looked up to meet his blue eyes and saw the burning desire in them. “I haven’t been able to take my eyes off of you.”
The sweetness of his words and a rush of emotion overtook my senses. I wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed him hard once more. When I finally let him go from our passionate kiss, I couldn’t help but glance at the surrounding tables. The only people that noticed were a couple voluptuous women that had their eye on Corey— they didn’t look very pleased with our embrace.
My lips brushed his ear, as I whispered. “I love that red shirt on you.” He smirked and leaned his forehead against mine.
“If you would have told me from the start this was the dress you planned on wearing—I would have worn any goddamn thing you asked—without question.” I giggled against his lips.
Corey’s hand left my back and waved at someone. My eyes darted up to see who held his attention. I saw Emily watching us, a mile long smile covered across her face.
“She gave me permission to kiss you all I want tonight.” A slow, tantalizing smile spread wickedly across his face, revealing that dimple I loved.
“Remind me to thank her later.” He kissed me again. “I don’t want to go back over there, but Sanders is going to kill me if I leave him completely alone while we’re at our busiest.”
“Okay go, I’ll stop by later.”
“You better.” He said with a wink, before rushing back to the bar.
Even the small amount of interaction calmed my need for him—for now. I was at least able to successfully focus on the task at hand and not think about what Corey was doing.
The guests finished eating their dinner and the servers began clearing the tables. The room slowly transformed into a party atmosphere. Now was one of the best times to start the first dance; it would bring people to the dance floor and away from the tables, giving the servers more room to work. Before walking over to Emily, I found Bailey and told her to be ready to hit the lights.
Emily and Ben were locked in a tight embrace while they thanked and talked with the family members at a nearby table. Even from afar, it was easy to see the look of pride over Ben’s face. Emily was everything to him and now she was officially his—the love the two felt for each other was brightening the room in a way the lights never could. Her eyes met mine; I silently asked if they were ready and her head bobbed with the excitement. With that, I made my way to the DJ’s stage and took the microphone.
“Good evening everyone! I hope you all are having a fabulous time so far, but now I’d really like to get things started. When I first met Ben and Emily, I was blown away by how truly in love they were. It was this completely, stars in their eyes, over-the-moon feeling they had—and it projected everywhere they went. When I looked at them I didn’t simply see a couple in love—I saw a love that was meant to last. So I am more than honored that I get to stand before you tonight and say congratulations to the happy couple as they start their lives together.” Bailey hit the lights at the right moment and the twinkling shone through the flowers and the tulle illuminating the room in a magical way. Ben led Emily by the hand onto the dance floor, as the song they specially chose for their first dance, “Lucky” by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat, played over the speakers. I snuck off the stand and made my way to the side as the family gathered around the young couple. An arm reached around my shoulders and pulled me close. At first I was startled, but upon seeing it was Corey, I relaxed into him.
“That was beautiful, Sweets.” He placed a kiss to my temple. We stood together watching Ben twirl Emily around the dance floor. The same floor that less than 24 hours ago—Corey and I had danced on.
It was mesmerizing watching them gaze at one another. Their eyes never strayed and their smiles were only meant for each other. It was an intimate moment that all got a chance to witness. The song ended with a dip, a kiss and a round of applause.
From there the party got started.
Music blared and guests danced. Random shouts of cheers and laughter rang around the room. The servers were excused for a short period before bringing out the cake, while the guests worked up their appetite. While everyone danced away, I took the opportunity to check in with Corey and Sanders.
“Lookin’ good, Dani!” Sanders said, as he looked me up and down. I smiled and thanked him but saw the irritation rising in Corey’s eyes. I went to his side behind the bar and wrapped my arms around his neck.
“So, I was thinking,” My voice was a soft whisper in his ear. “That tonight you should really come over. Then I can thank you for everything you’ve done for me with this wedding.”
He leaned closer into me. “That definitely sounds like something I can handle.” His voice was a deep rumble, sending chills throughout my body.
“These guys are driving me nuts, by the way. I’ve seen the way they stare at you like you’re nothing but a piece of meat. Do me a favor and tell me if one of their suggestions gets a little too intimate. I’ll throw the fucker out on his ass. ”
“No way, Corey.” While I wouldn’t be completely opposed to the idea, it probably wouldn’t make the other guests happy.
“You know I don’t like men disrespecting women.”
“They’re also drunk and its Emily’s wedding. We’re not going to cause a scene.” Corey rolled his eyes once more, trying to reign in his jealous, over-protective feelings.
“If I see any douchebag go from talking to laying his hands on you, don’t expect me to just stand by and be okay with it.”
“Deal.” I said with a smile and a kiss.
Wonderful Tonight
Tonight was going smoothly; I had my nose deep in my clipboard checklist to make sure I wasn’t missing a single important moment. The DJ’s voice came over the speakers in between songs.
“This is a special request so grab a partner and make it count.”
I paid the request no mind until I heard what song it was. Elvis Presley’s song “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” began and my eyes shot up toward the floor. Corey stood at the edge of it, blue eyes locked on mine. A strong hand extended out to me. Even from afar, I could see him mouth the words, dance with me.
I set the clipboard down and wasted no time walking to him. His fingers laced with mine as he walked us to the middle. My hand went to his shoulder, while his pressed firmly into my lower back. It was just as the night before had been—it was only us. My body was aware of every movement his hand made against me and the way my heart tingled at the rush of intimacy.
Corey’s lips began to mouth the words as I watched in a trance.
“Take my hand. Take my whole life too. For I can’t help falling in love with you.”
He spun me out then twirled me back into his body, as the song came to a beautiful end. Others surrounding us separated but we didn’t break apart.
“Thank you for the dance,” he whispered, inches from my lips.
“Anytime,” I promised.
Eric Clapton’s “Wonderful
Tonight,” was the next one to play—it was one of my favorite songs. His lips mouthed every word, as our dancing became more playful. Twirling me and dipping me, all while I couldn’t hide my smile that made my cheeks hurt.
My past may be screwing with me and I might not have the best handle on my life—but in this moment—nothing else mattered. I didn’t think of the definitions of our relationship or how I shouldn’t lead him on. Because in this moment—being in his arms—was all I wanted. The other couples slowly disappeared from sight, all I saw was Corey’s beautiful face and lips—singing to me. My arms released his hand and wrapped securely around his neck, my cheek pressed safely against his. His arms wound around my waist, rocking us slowly from side-to-side.
His soft lips leaned into my ear so I could hear him sing the final line of the song to me:
“I said my darling, you are wonderful tonight.”
Chills ran up and down my spine at the sound of his whispered voice— meant only for me. When the song ended he pulled back just enough to plant a kiss on my lips. Corey pulled me from the dance floor and back to the bar.
“Okay, Dani—I totally call next dance with you.” Sanders said; despite the angry glare Corey was sending him.
“You got yourself a deal.” I gave him a wink, as Corey handed me a glass of champagne.
“Are you trying to get me drunk?” I asked, leaning into Corey once more. His eyebrow rose as he gave me a very mischievous smirk that sent an electric current between my thighs.
“Quite possibly.” Corey leaned in for another kiss but stopped and looked up at something he saw behind me.
“Danielle!” I whipped my head around to see Ollie walking towards me from the far side of the room. To keep him from getting too near to Corey, I set down my champagne and closed the distance. Ollie’s arms enclosed me the moment I was in his reach. A smile spread across my face out of politeness from Ollie’s surprise visit.
“What are you doing here?” My question came out in a stunned tone that matched my mood.
“You told me about this a while ago, I wanted to come by and see how it all turned out. Perhaps we can even sneak a piece of cake to share.” His eyes lit up as he spoke, I found it hard to turn him down.
“Sure Ollie, that sounds great.”
“Super!” He threw an arm around my shoulders and walked us over to the table where the cake pieces sat. I refused to turn around and get a glimpse of what was sure to be, a seething expression coming from Corey. We took a couple slices and moved our little party into the kitchen. There were a few employees doing the dishes and cleaning but none bothered us.
Ollie’s eyes continued to linger on my legs and chest; it made me uncomfortable but I tried to ignore it. During one of the moments he was paying complete attention to my bare skin, I took notice of him; not only did Ollie’s body look amazing in just about anything, but he also seemed extremely well-dressed for a man just dropping in.
“So, it’s nice to see you.” I said, with a smile.
“Yeah, your Gram talked to me the other day and told me they were invited. When she told me about it tonight, she said that your Grandpa was under the weather, so they wouldn’t make it.”
“Oh yes, the bride’s family and mine are all pretty close from what I’ve heard.” Grandma talked to Ollie—tonight?!
“That’s what she said to me, too.” This was making me wonder just how frequently the two of them spoke. “When we talked, she said I should definitely swing by.”
“I’m glad you did.” My smile was unfailingly kind, though I felt extreme frustration towards my Gram. We apparently needed to have a bit of a chat about her interference into my life. Whether out of the goodness of her heart, or just to meddle in my business—either way—this was too much. Not to mention the damage control I would have to do upon my return back to the reception area.
“Me too, it’s been impossible to get a hold of you lately!”He shoveled a bite of cake into his mouth.
“Sorry about that, it’s just work has been nuts. Taking over the Inn for my Gram has been a daunting task. I just want to do the best I can.”
“You’re doing great, Dee! Really, you deserve a night out to have fun though, and I’d like to be the one to take you out.”His eyes held mine as I continued to smile, at a true loss for words.
“That would be nice. I’ll keep you posted on the days I have some free time.”
“What about tonight?”My eyes darted around the room, before I turned back to him with an eyebrow raised.
“I’m a little busy?” I couldn’t tell if he was being serious or not. Ollie let out a boisterous laugh that threw me off guard.
“What about after?” I narrow my eyes at him before I could stop it. By the time the wedding was over, and I’d be ready to leave, it would be around two in the morning. That wasn’t exactly prime time to ‘hang’ and watch a movie with a friend. Besides, I already asked Corey to come over and I had plans for us.
“Tonight’s not going to work—another time though.” I added with a smile. Ollie didn’t seem at all affected by my hesitation over plans for the night.
“That sounds good to me, but before I leave—how about a dance?”
“A what?”
“A dance, Dee, come on. In that dress you deserve to dance.” Well I have—a few times.
“Oh, I don’t know.”
“Come on, I insist!” He grabbed hold of my hand before I had a chance to say no.
Next thing I knew, we were on the dance floor. His hands positioned where Corey’s had been not long ago. I’m sure by now the guests probably thought I was playing games with multiple men. Especially since most didn’t fail to notice my shameless displays of affection for Corey. Now here I was, with a different man’s arms around me. I kept my head down to avoid any disapproving glances being thrown in my direction. The dance, the song, nor the others on the dance floor—nothing made an imprint in my brain.
Finally, the song changed to a faster pace. I took that as an excuse to leave the floor. Ollie held onto my hand; unwilling to let me go as we walked to the front door.
“I know you’re working, so I won’t distract your attention any longer tonight. Thank you for the dance, though.” He lifted my hand to his lips and placed a kiss on the back. Lord—could this get any cheesier? “I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my time than to have you in my arms.” Guess he could get worse.
“I’ll call you.”
“Have a good night, Dee.” Oliver waved once more before disappearing into the night. I rushed back to the reception, as the party began to slowly wind down.
My eyes instantly darted to the bar, where Corey was staring at me. With hands on his hips I had no doubt he was completely pissed off. Whether he was mad at me, Ollie or both—I couldn’t tell. I shrugged my shoulders with brow furrowed, I mouthed the word ‘sorry.’ I knew he saw me; he shrugged back. This better not screw up the rest of my night.
* * * *
Bailey—the amazing woman she was—told me she would stay late and clean up with the staff once the wedding party ended. She insisted it was because I’d stayed late the night before, but I wasn’t stupid—she’d seen the way I spent the evening lusting after Corey. I made a mental note to give her something wonderful to make up for her impeccable timing.
Corey was more than ready to go and Sanders had no problem staying behind. I grabbed a few things before we left in Corey’s Jeep and headed back to my place. Before leaving, I managed to swipe a bottle of chilled champagne; the two of us traded off taking long pulls from the bottle until it was gone. Then we spent a good hour getting out all of our built-up energy.
The bedside lamp was on, our empty bottle of champagne sat underneath. The light cast a small glow over Corey’s bare, ripped chest. It wasn’t easy leaving that all-too tempting sight but I needed sustenance. Corey’s hand tried to reach out to keep me in bed but I escaped his grasp. I grabbed his red button up shirt that was discarded on the floor. My panties were r
esting next to the shirt; I tugged them into place after buttoning a few of the buttons to keep it from flying open. I practically ran to the kitchen and yanked out my large piece of cake from the fridge along with two beers and a fork.
Corey was leaning against the headboard, with a smirk on his face when I returned. I sat on the bed next to him; we each took a swig of beer before setting them down.
“Now this has to be my favorite part of hosting weddings—the cake.” He let out a laugh and rolled his eyes; taking another drink. His hand reached out and rested on my thigh, slowly caressing the skin. Reigniting a fire that had been put out already—multiple times.
Corey licked his lips. “Let me get a bite.” I slowly slid the fork into his mouth, watching his lips close seductively over the cake in. I let my tongue trail over my lips as I craved the delectable taste of sugar and Corey. When I pulled the fork back, a small piece of frosting fell onto his chest. Our eyes looked from the spill up to each other; I shrugged.
“I’ll get that later.”
“Well, I’d say tonight went pretty damn well.”
“Yeah, they seemed really happy with it. Emily looked so gorgeous too!” Corey nodded but looked to be thinking about something else.
“To be completely honest—I have no recollection of what she looked like.”
“She was the only woman in a large white gown—how did you miss that?” He continued to draw circles on my leg; it took everything in me to keep my cool.
“Because, there was a captivating woman in a black dress, that I couldn’t tear my eyes away from.” My face pulled into a grin, as I fed him another bite of cake.