Right at that moment, I knew I had to tell Tanner that I loved him. The emotion was welling up inside of me, filling me from head to toe. I knew he loved me in return, so I wasn't afraid of that. But I wanted to find the right moment, the exact moment in which to say the words.
"I love that book, too," I said, placing Tanner's hand in mine as I turned to make eye contact.
"It's wonderful that Tanner is dating a teacher. I've always had the utmost respect and appreciation for that profession."
"Thanks. That means a lot to me," I said.
"I have to say, I love your name. How did your parents choose it?" Lily asked inquisitively.
"Well, it's kind of a funny story. When I was born, I had bright red hair. It made my mom think of Daphne from Scooby Doo. They'd planned to name me Jane after my great grandmother. But, instead, they decided on Daphne Jane."
"I love that." Lily gave me a generous smile.
"I do, too," Tanner said, running his fingers through my auburn hair.
"So, what do you have planned for tonight?" Lily asked, changing the subject.
"I was thinking we'd do some wine tasting. Daphne loves wine."
"I bet you'll love the vineyards here, then. Lots of variety. I can't seem to get Paul to try any of the fruit wines. But, they're my favorite."
"I'll have to try them. Would you like to come with us?" I asked.
Lily glanced at Paul and they smiled knowingly at one another before Paul responded.
"That's very sweet, but I think we'll stay in. Maggi should be here in a few hours. We don't want her to show up to an empty condo."
"Oh, okay," I said.
"Plus, you two should spend some time alone before all of the wedding craziness begins."
"That sounds nice. Thanks, Mom." Tanner said, rubbing my knee gently with the pads of his fingers.
"Do you like cherries?" Tanner asked as we arrived at the first vineyard.
"I adore cherries. They're my favorite." I squeezed Tanner's hand gently as we walked into the winery. He placed his hand on the small of my back as we walked to the counter. A blond woman with long, thin fingers handed us the wine menus for the tasting. Tanner and I selected our six wines for tasting and passed the menus back to our host.
"Excellent choices," she said as she filled our glasses.
Despite the large salad that I ate for dinner, the wine was giving me a nice buzz by the time we had finished the tasting. I playfully held on to Tanner's elbow as we walked back to his car. Having not been affected by the wine himself, he was enjoying my tipsy behavior. He carried our purchases to the car, placed them in the trunk, and opened my door.
"Wow, you're such a gentleman tonight."
"Aren't I always?" he asked, swiftly pulling me into his arms and literally taking my breath away. He stared deeply into my eyes. He then glanced to my lips, my cheeks, and my hair as if he was searching for something to say. He stroked my cheek lightly with the pad of his thumb as he took my chin into his hands. He kissed me deeply and I responded instantly, pulling him to me with voracity and desire. After a few moments, he pulled away, gasping for air, staring into my dumbfounded eyes.
"What is it?" Why did you stop?" I asked, leaning into him for support without breaking eye contact.
"I just remembered that we're in a parking lot." He laughed.
"So what?" I asked, running my fingers down his neck.
"We're in a parking lot, and you, sweetheart, are tipsy."
"You love me when I'm tipsy."
"That's true. But, I think we should probably go now." I gave him an exaggerated pout, but could not sustain it when he raised his eyebrows at me.
"Alright, pain in the ass," I said between laughs and climbing into the car. "Let's go."
We visited two more wineries, and despite my rapid consumption of the sweet crackers at each bar, I was still enjoying a very healthy buzz. I noticed that Tanner was also showing a slight tipsiness to him. Being the responsible man that he was, however, our final winery was across the street from the condominium complex.
"You think of everything, don't you?" I asked as he carefully pulled his car into the parking lot.
"Most of the time. Isn't that something you love about me?" he asked, patting my leg after putting the gear shift into park. I took his hand in mine and stared at him intently.
"I love everything about you," I said.
"That's nice to hear."
"It's true." Tanner took my hand in his, kissing my palm.
"Want to take a walk down to the beach?" he asked.
"That sounds nice."
Tanner opened my car door and took my hand. We walked around the building until we reached the shoreline. The night had cooled, and a soft breeze made goosebumps rise on my arms. Removing my sandals from my feet, I dangled them from my fingers as we sat just inches from the water's edge.
"I love this," I said.
"The beach?" Tanner said, looking curious.
"Traveling...with you. I want to do more of it."
"Definitely. Where should we go?"
"Hmm, San Francisco?" I said, digging my toes into the cool sand.
"Great city. I've been there for work. My favorite's Manhattan. Have you been there yet?"
My world stopped. I had to think quickly, even through my alcoholic fog. I couldn't let Mayson spoil this moment. I wouldn't.
"Yeah, it was nice. But, maybe we should go somewhere neither of us has been."
Tanner didn't flinch, and I was grateful. I hated that the simple mention of a city could get me unglued. I hated that the memories continued to haunt.
"That's a good idea. New can be good." He narrowed his eyes. "You're so gorgeous," he said, weaving his fingers through my curls.
Taking my face in his hands, pulled me in for a deep kiss. He tasted delicious, like strawberry wine. His breath was hot on my neck as he pulled away and began to shower me with kisses along my jaw. I shuddered and cried out softly as he flicked his tongue seductively on the fleshy portion of my ear. I wanted him so badly. Craving the touch that only Tanner could me give, I stroked his inner thigh, urging him on.
"Won't your parents hear us?" I asked as his hands roamed under my skirt.
"Their bedroom's on the other side of the house."
"But, what if someone sees us?" I asked, looking around.
"It's late," Tanner said, kissing my neck. "Everyone's asleep. Are you uncomfortable?"
I felt myself getting swept up and didn't want to reach a point where we'd be unable to stop.
"It's not that, I just...I want you. And that can't happen here. Not like this."
"Sorry, I just--" he said, shaking his head.
"What? What is it?"
"I lose control around you...it's like I forget everything else. I hope I didn't make you feel cheap."
"Cheap? Um, no. You made me feel wanted."
"That's an understatement," he said, his lip pulling up on one side. I loved his lopsided grin. "C'mon, let's go upstairs," he said.
"Will that be okay?" I hesitated. "I mean, with your family?"
"Yeah, we just need to be quiet. Can you do that?" I stared, astonished by his question.
"I'm not sure," I said, laughing a little.
"I promise it'll be worth it," Tanner said before kissing me roughly on the lips once again. I had no choice but to nod in surrender.
"Good morning, sweetheart," Tanner said into my ear. The room was hazy, but I basked in the knowledge of where I was.
"I slept like a rock. Last night was amazing," I said, stroking his cheek.
"That's one way to put it," he said, interlacing our fingers with one another.
"What would you call it?"
"Earth shattering? Mind blowing?" he asked as he tickled my side. "Hey, what are you thinking about?"
"I was just realizing how lucky I am."
"Hmm," he said sarcastically, "what were you really thinking?"
"Seriously! I was thinking about you. How wonderful y
ou are, how sweet you are, that kind of stuff."
"Keep going. I don't think I could ever get tired of this conversation," he said, laughing.
"I'm sure you wouldn't," I said, rolling my eyes.
Pulling me closer, pushing my bangs from my eyes, Tanner said, "I'm glad you think you're lucky. But, I'm the lucky one. Honestly."
"That's so sweet."
"I mean it. You came into my life and you've brightened it ever since. You're like sunshine."
"Wow," I said, stunned. "That might be the best compliment of my life."
"It's true." He paused before placing a quick peck on my lips. "Are you hungry? I think I smell bacon and coffee downstairs."
"Sure, let me take a quick shower and then I'll be right down," I said, suddenly feeling self-conscious.
"You know you look perfect. Everyone else will be in their robes."
"I'm not ready for your father to see me in my pajamas," I admitted, my cheeks turning scarlet. Tanner placed a tiny kiss on the tip of my nose.
"I understand. Come down when you're ready."
"Thanks," I mumbled, still feeling a little uneasy. Tanner put on his pajamas and bathrobe and closed the door behind him. Taking a deep breath, I headed to the washroom to freshen myself up. I could hear his parents asking him about our trip to the wineries. There was no weirdness or awkward tension and I felt so relieved.
Quickly, I showered, got dressed, and prettied myself up a bit before heading downstairs to join Tanner's family for breakfast. His sister Maggi was the first to greet me, crossing the room and giving me a hug.
"Good morning, Daphne. Good to see you."
I smiled warmly at her. "Thanks, Maggi. I'm happy to see you, too."
"Come sit. Mom and I made breakfast. What can I get you? Eggs? Bacon? Fresh fruit?" My stomach growled loudly.
"Oh wow," I said, placing a hand on my abdomen. "Yes, yes, and yes, please."
Tanner grasped my hand in his under the table and gave me a chaste kiss on the cheek. I shifted towards him, thanking him for the sweet contact.
Everyone was excited for the wedding that evening. Maggi convinced me to let her style my hair. I obliged, mostly because I was terrible at doing my own hair, but also because I was excited about having the chance to bond with her. I hadn't really spent much time with Maggi and I wanted to get to know her better since she and Tanner were so close.
Lily and Paul were attentive hosts, making sure I'd had enough to eat and that I slept well. I felt so at home in their world and it was encouraging. I found myself getting excited about the upcoming wedding and reception. Now that I felt accepted and welcomed into the Finley family, I was ready to face the relatives.
"So what's on the agenda?" Paul asked as he poured himself a cup of coffee.
"Not sure," Tanner said, "there's lots to do. What sounds good to you, Daph?"
"Um, well, last night I saw a sign for horseback riding."
"Have you ridden before?"
"Nope, never. Always wanted to."
"Well, you're in luck. Maggi took lessons as a kid, so I got to ride a lot, too. Haven't done it in years, but I know what I'm doing."
"Just be careful," Maggi said. "Don't break your neck before the ceremony. I don't think the bride would be too happy with you."
"True," I said, as I bit my lower lip. "Maybe it's a bad idea."
"We'll be fine," Tanner said, "They do guided trail rides. There's nothing to worry about, I promise."
"Okay, I trust you," I said, as I stood and carried my plate and cup to the sink. Excited to spend the day making memories with Tanner. New memories.
"This is Garfunkle. He's one of our best horses," said Nicola, the tall blond owner of the stables as she stroked the gray mane of the large horse. I'd be lying if I said she didn't intimidate me. Her hair was pulled back into a tight pony tail, her skin tan from many days spent outside on horseback. Her voice was a little too smooth for my taste, her eyes a little too green. She was gorgeous, and she was spending a lot of time staring at my boyfriend. I put on my best poker face, focusing on the horse.
"So, will I be riding Simon?" Tanner asked.
"Normally, yes" Nicola said with a laugh. "But, Simon has done too many rides the last few days. He needs to rest. You'll be riding Jellybean. She's right over here."
She led us to a large, caramel colored horse with a thick, chestnut mane. Jellybean accepted a treat from Tanner's hand as he smoothed down her mane.
"Have you ridden before?" Nicola asked us both.
"I have. This is Daphne's first time, though."
"Did you watch the video inside before signing the papers?"
"Yes," I replied.
"Okay then," she said, glancing at her watch, "looks like it'll just be the three of us. Let's get you up on the horses and I'll lead us toward the trail."
Before she walked away, she looked directly at Tanner and winked.
Excuse me?
"That was a bold move," I said once she was out of earshot.
"What's that?" he asked, looking confused.
"Um, did you not see her wink at you?"
"Oh, well, yeah," Tanner said, his ears turning red, "I guess I just didn't think anything of it."
"Be serious."
"I am," he said, taking my hand and pulling me into his arms. "When I'm with you, no one else exists. Don't you get that by now?"
"I'm starting to," I said.
"You're my world, Daph." The pads of his thumbs brushed my cheeks, "Now, stop being jealous. It's time to ride," he said, giving me an exaggerated wink. I wasn't sure if I should hug him or smack him. Smart ass.
But, his words lingered as we rode our horses slowly through the wooded trail. You're my world, Daphne. And I realized no one had ever said anything quite so sweet. Not ever.
That evening, Tanner and I were sitting in a small church waiting for his cousin Victoria to walk down the aisle. His arm was around me while the other cupped my hand in his. He looked so satisfied to have me on his arm. I was his one and only and the knowledge of this brought me so much happiness.
The Bridal Chorus began and Victoria strolled down the aisle. Her dark hair cascaded down her back, and the lace of her dress matched the delicate veil atop her head. She was a sight to behold.
The service was beautiful and the joy of the newly married couple radiated throughout the chapel. Tanner leaned in closer as the bride and groom exited the church.
"Hope that wasn't too painful," he said.
"Are you kidding? It was gorgeous. I'm a sucker for a beautiful church wedding." I took his hand and we followed the crowd out to the parking lot.
"Really? I pegged you as a get-married-on-the-beach type of girl."
"Nah, I guess I'm more traditional than you think. I've always dreamed of a small chapel like this, my father walking me down the aisle, all that good stuff. What about you?"
I tilted my head to the side as Tanner opened my car door for me and held it open, staring at me intently.
"Honestly, I've never given the actual service much thought. I always thought more about the woman."
He then planted a strong kiss on me before strolling around the SUV to the driver's side. I was left stunned and realized that I was still standing outside of the vehicle as Tanner started the engine.
"Daphne." He laughed. "Want to get in the car, sweetheart?"
"Right," I said, shaking off my bewildered expression.
We spent the next few minutes in complete silence. I was too afraid to speak, my emotions too strong. I was afraid I'd confess my love right here in the car.
No, Daphne, you have to wait for the right time.
"Are you all right?" Tanner asked, breaking my train of thought. "Did I freak you out back there?" He looked perplexed and nervous. He thought I didn't like what he was hinting at, but he was so wrong.
I looked at him and said, matter-of-factly, "Absolutely not. It's just the opposite."
"Oh, thank God."
He sighed. I
was so eager to tell him how I felt. I wanted to ease his fears and my own. But first I had to confess my hidden talents that would surely be revealed at Victoria's reception. Tanner didn't know about my curse.
"So, there's something I really should tell you...even though I really don't want to," I said nervously.
"Go ahead," he said, focusing on the road. He looked tense.
"I sort of have this curse. I um...I catch every bouquet at every wedding I attend even though I don't want to. There, I said it. It's off my chest." I exhaled deeply and pushed my head back into the seat.
"Seriously?" Tanner grinned. "Every time, huh?" I nodded.
"How many weddings?" he asked.
"I'm starting to lose count, to tell you the truth. Nine? Maybe ten?"
"I'm not gonna lie, that's kinda funny. Maybe the universe is speaking to you." I sat up with a start.
"That's what I've always wondered! But honestly, it's been going on for so long now, who the hell knows anymore. I don't want you to be freaked out if I catch it tonight."
"If you catch it?"
"Okay, when I catch it." I rolled my eyes playfully.
"It won't freak me out."
"Really, are you sure?" I asked, giving him my best attempt at a sexy smile.
"Yep. Absolutely certain. It won't freak me out. I promise."
He was so calm and self-assured as he spoke the words. A strong wave of calm spread through me as he pulled his SUV into an empty parking space. He shifted the car into park and gave me a small kiss on the lips.
"Come on, I'm starving. Let's go eat!"
Several hours later, it was time for the bouquet toss. My heart began to race. Normally, I would be thrilled to catch the bouquet. I was in a committed relationship with a wonderful man, a man with whom I could imagine planning a future. I could picture myself walking down the aisle, walking towards Tanner, a huge smile on his face. I could envision him as my husband, but I was growing tired of my curse. Part of me wanted nothing more than to see some other young woman catch that bundle of flowers. But would Tanner be disappointed?
Slowly, I made my way to the dance floor. Several of Tanner's young cousins were on the dance floor, giggling and ready for the main event. My lungs expanded and I inhaled the warm air of the reception hall. Glancing back at Tanner, I positioned myself amongst the cousins.
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