“Maybe she unknowingly encouraged those guys.”
“You wouldn’t say that if you knew your bride.”
Fuck you. “You’re right. I don’t. As June’s friend, you must have done something like defending her. Kicking the other kids’ asses.”
Craig sighed. His eyes reflected hurt as if he could still see what had happened years ago. “We tried. But we had different classes. One time, Vi and I found her in the gym. Her eyes were swollen and her nose was bleeding. Apparently she’d been hit by a volleyball twice by accident. Accident my ass. June’s a good volleyball player. She’d made varsity that year as a freshman. Vi didn’t believe June’s story, so she went after the girls.”
“What did she do?”
“She dumped two gallons of computer ink on them. She got a week suspension from school.”
Henry smiled, imagining the horrible girls covered in ink.
“What about you? What did you do?”
Craig shook his head. “Stood up for her. Denied the gossip. We tried to protect June, but we couldn’t stop the nasty tongue that she’d been sleeping around.”
For some reason, Henry wanted to find those punks and teach them a lesson. “I’m sure her experience has made her tougher.”
“Even the toughest cypress can bend after so much battering from strong winds and storms. She didn’t break but bent. The experience made her shrink inside her shell. She never joined any sports or clubs after that. She excelled in academics, though. What the mean girls didn’t succeeded in doing was changing June—from who she is. Kind, honest, loving, down-to-earth and funny. She has a great sense of humor, you know. Those fucking idiots didn’t take away the best of June.”
Sense of humor, yes. But honesty? He was unsure about that. “You know why we’re getting married, right?”
Annoyance registered in Craig’s face. He flexed his jaws. “I heard. This wedding is stupid and shouldn’t happen.”
“You don’t think that I should marry her?”
“This wedding is against both of your wills, am I right? She should be doing something more important instead of wasting her time here.”
Fuck. You. “Like what?”
“Taking care of herself.”
Henry had been wondering about June’s decision to get pregnant. Maybe Craig could shed light on that. “June is not a for-hire prostitute. She and Vivienne made up that story. Why would a decent woman do that? What did she hope to gain by getting pregnant without a father?”
Craig looked away and scanned the crowd. “I think that’s something you two should talk about. What June should have done is asked me for help. I’d sacrifice everything for her.”
“Ask you to what? To sleep with her or marry her?”
“She should have asked me before meeting you.”
“You love June.”
Craig scowled at Henry. “Yes, I love her. She’s my friend. You don’t love her and she’s not your friend. I think she’s better off with me.”
“Fuck you, you ass.”
Craig faced him. His hands fisted. “Fuck you too. Don’t think I know what you’re doing. You’re marrying June but keeping your girlfriend, who will be your mistress. Don’t fucking deny it. Everyone here can see it.”
“It’s none of your damn business what I do with my girlfriend. Your friend fooled me. She put herself in this position, not me.”
“Yes, she did. She used you. But don’t tell me you’re all about saving your family name and that’s why you agreed to this marriage. That’s fucking bullshit. You’re using her too. So don’t give June crap. What she’s done is probably a blessing to you without her even knowing it.”
Henry stared at Craig. What he’d said was true, but no way in hell would Henry ever admit it.
“What are you three hiding?” Henry asked.
“Does it matter?”
Henry wanted to punch the man so hard. “I think I deserve to know.”
“You’ll find out soon enough.”
“Why don’t you just fucking tell me now?” he snarled.
“She’s a good kid, Henry. Don’t hurt her. She’s going through enough already.”
“Going through tough times? Is that why she pretended to be a prostitute?”
“You talk to her.”
Something was missing and no one was willing to fill him in. “I don’t fucking get it.”
“You will. Swear on your soul that you will not hurt her, Henry, or I’ll fucking kill you. I don’t care about the repercussions.”
“Physically, no. I would rather cut my own dick off than do that. But June knows I’m not ready to play the role of a husband. Her feelings are not safe.”
Craig snickered. “And neither are yours. I’d be careful if I were you.”
Henry pulled himself to his fullest height. “What the fuck are you talking about?”
“She’ll make you fall in love with her without even trying. Then she’ll break your heart—also without even trying. Mark my words.”
It was Henry’s turn to laugh.
* * * *
Henry admired the white gazebo decorated with orchids. He was impressed by how the backyard had been transformed into a fairyland—minus the fairies, of course. But this wedding had no flower girl or ring bearer, just a bridesmaid and a groomsman. However, they had a long list of guests, tons of food, entertainment and a great backyard professionally decorated. Henry smirked. This was his mother’s definition of a simple wedding.
His mom had taken great lengths to make this happen. He’d bet any bride would want a beautiful garden wedding like this one. He wasn’t sure if June would like it, though, especially after what Craig had told him.
Knowing that June had suffered socially in high school didn’t sit well in his stomach. He didn’t like anyone being bullied or treated differently, no matter their station in life. He also hated his suspicion that Craig loved June as more than a friend. If Craig raised his hand and objected to this wedding, he wouldn’t be surprised.
But he sensed something else was bothering Craig. If he were to guess, the man was fighting some kind of inner demon. Maybe the thought of not being able to save June from entering a loveless marriage had kept him awake all night.
“Damn, bro. You look like thunder. It’s your fucking wedding day. Smile.” Trey clapped him on the back.
“Hey, man. Is Nolan here?”
“Yup. Alone though. Couldn’t bring Gypsy. Her dad had a minor heart attack.”
“Damn. Is he okay?”
“Yup. But Gypsy couldn’t leave him in the hospital, so our Romeo won’t be climbing Juliet’s trellis until the old man is back home.”
Henry shook his head. His friend Nolan had been seeing Gypsy for months, but because Gypsy’s dad objected to her having a boyfriend, Nolan couldn’t knock on her door. Instead he would climb the trellis outside Gypsy’s window. “Too bad. I thought we’d be able to meet Gypsy this time.”
Trey adjusted his tie. “Me too. I’m beginning to think she’s a ghost.”
“Where’s Nolan?”
“Trapped in the middle of gorgeous women inside the house. Julian and the fam are here. So, you ready for this?”
“Yup. What’s six months, man? Today I’ll get the money to fund my business.”
Trey shook his head. “For a month you talked about June like you’re halfway in love with her already, Hen. We’re all dying to meet your bride. You sure there is nothing more to you agreeing to this marriage than money?”
“Nah.”
“Uncle Henry!”
Henry was happy for the interruption. He didn’t want to talk about money and the contract right now. “Hey, Sam girl. How’s my beautiful butterfly?” Henry picked up Sam and kissed her on the lips. “I’ve missed you.”
“I missed you too.” Sam wrapped her chubby arms around his neck. “Mommy said you’re having a baby. I want to see.”
Henry looked at Joanie, who had a big smile on her face. “Your mommy is right.
But you can’t see the baby right now. She’s not born yet.”
“Okay. Can I have it?”
Henry laughed. “I love you, my little butterfly.”
“I love you too, Uncle.”
He thought Sam looked like a fairy in her gauzy pink dress and sparkly headband. She smelled of apples too. A knot in his stomach tightened. Soon, he’d have his own little one. Jelly Bean, as June called their baby. “I’m sure you can play with her when she’s bigger.”
“Is she gonna be a baby girl like me?”
“June thinks so.”
“I will like her, Uncle. I’ll be her big sister.”
Henry hugged Sam. “Sounds wonderful, love.”
“Do I get my kiss now?” Joanie placed her hands on her hips like a mother scolding her child. Her expression looked exactly like Sam’s—adorable.
Henry laughed as he put Sam back down. She immediately ran to Julian.
“Yes, Mrs. Lovely Ravenwood. You’d better get your kiss now. Soon I won’t be free to give kisses.” He hugged Joanie tightly. Julian’s wife was a knockout. Simple and yet oozing with sexual charm. Like June.
“All right. Enough mauling my wife, bro, or there won’t be a wedding today.” Julian shook hands with him as soon as Henry let go of his wife.
“Thanks for coming, man.”
“Uncle Henry, I want lemonade.”
“Sure, honey bear. We can get you a glass.”
“I’ll take her.” Joanie took hold of her daughter’s hand. “Come on, bug. Let’s get a drink.”
“I want a butterfly straw, mommy.”
“We’ll see if we can find one.”
Henry watched the mother and daughter walk away.
“Didn’t think it would be you next, brother. Nolan is the one walking around with a hard-on all the time.”
“Hey, you fucking talking about my dick?”
Nolan joined them. Once again, the Blue-eyed Four were together. “You look mighty fine, bro.
“I could say the same thing about you. I’m looking forward to meeting your bride.”
“I want to meet the bridesmaid,” Trey piped in.
“Vivienne? I already told you to stay away from her.”
“I know. I’m just curious to see the mildly drunk waitress who convinced you to unwrap your present.”
“Suit yourself. But don’t blame me when you find yourself agreeing to a marriage you don’t want. She’s a sly, my friend.”
“Come on, man. Not all of us are lucky like you. You’re getting the girl you’ve been talking about and the money you need. Damn, man.” Trey shook his head. “You still want the girl, right?”
“I don’t think he’s really stopped wanting her, Trey. I’ll bet my balls that Henry is already imagining the bride naked,” Nolan said.
Henry shook his head. “June doesn’t want me, remember? Just the baby. And you all know about the contract. This is not the usual wedding, bros.”
“So fucking what? You can still sleep with your wife.” Nolan waggled his eyebrows.
Trey laughed. “Julian said he didn’t want to go near Joanie after their wedding and left her the same day they got married.”
Julian winced. “Please don’t speak of that again.”
“But look,” Trey continued. “He’s got adorable Sam who I just want to put in my pocket and a wife I wish I could fu—”
“Say it and I’ll fucking break your neck, Trey.”
“What? I was just going to say I want to fuss over Joanie.”
“Uh-huh. Dickhead.” Julian shoved his friend none too gently.
John, Henry’s business partner, joined the circle. “Sorry, mate. Been on the phone since this morning. Hi, everyone.”
Henry’s friends exchanged jabs with John.
“I want in on the company shares, Hen. What are you up to, John?” Julian asked as he snagged a wineglass from a waiter’s tray.
“Oh nothing. Just looking forward to spending Henry’s inheritance,” John said, grinning. “The OPA90 Oil and Chemical tanker is worth seven million. Imagine spending that kind of money.”
“Holy fuck!”
“Damn.”
“Wow.”
Julian, Trey and Nolan all exclaimed at the same time.
“What about the new MWG10 General Cargo, Henry? Do you think we could squeeze it in?” John asked.
Henry grinned. His friend was practically drooling. “We can afford both and we’ll add a Ro-ro, which would carry livestock.”
John straightened his tie. “If we add the Ro-ro, we’ll cover everything from coals to cement to chickens.”
“Damn, Henry. Your ships will carry your flag all over the world,” Julian said.
“To Henry’s dream coming true.” Nolan raised his glass.
“A dream come true,” everyone said and clinked glasses.
“By the way, how did Stacey take the news about June?”
Henry looked at Julian. When he married Joanie, he hadn’t known that she was already pregnant. Sam was already turning four when he’d met his baby. Whereas Henry would meet his baby as soon as she was born but would never see her grow up. A painful prick inside his chest made him scowl. What the hell? “Stacey’s pissed. But after I explained everything, she understood. She said she’s willing to wait.”
“You sure about this, bro? A baby’s involved.”
“I signed a contract, man. Dad threatened to ruin my name and my company if I break it. He doesn’t give empty threats.” Henry wanted to rip off his bow tie. He hated wearing a suit. So uncomfortable.
“So, while waiting for your six months, what are you going to do with your wife?” Trey asked.
“Get an apartment in Woodway Highlands. Furnished and everything.”
“Highlands. Expensive, classy. Surrounded by trees, away from everyone. Planning on hiding her?” Nolan frowned.
“Just doing what I’m told to do, bro. Marry June, buy a nice place for her and wait until the baby is born.”
“Damn. Wish Joanie’s dad would’ve asked me to do the same.” Nolan shook his head. “I would’ve married Joanie in a heartbeat.”
“You sure you want to use June, Henry? That’s not you at all,” Julian whispered.
“I’m not using her, bro. June is getting what she wants—my name. She’s not a victim here. I’m just making the best out of this situation.”
“Use your inheritance, you mean.”
“Imagine the number of jobs we’re going to create. People we’re going to help.”
Trey waved at the women who’d been ogling them. “You don’t feel the guilt, because in your book, June used you.”
“She did.”
“But you still don’t know why?”
“Her friends are tight-lipped. All I know is that she wanted a baby.”
“Understandable. All women want babies. It’s in their DNA. Whenever they see a baby, they wanted one too. I think a woman’s biological clock starts when she hits twenty,” Julian explained.
John grinned. “And Henry found one who seems desperate to have a baby. Do you think Vivienne wants one too?”
“Don’t know, John. And I don’t care.”
“Still in love with her?” Julian asked the question so casually.
Henry frowned at Julian, but his friend just started laughing.
The instrumental music he’d personally picked started playing. Henry’s friends shoved him playfully then they took their seats like everyone else. He glanced at his parents. His mom beamed as well as Rebecca, but his dad showed nothing but boredom. Stacey gave him a meaningful smile.
“I’ll meet you at my condo tonight,” Stacey had whispered to him earlier. Crazy, really. Tonight would be his wedding night, but his girlfriend wanted him in her bed.
“Time to take your spot, bro, unless you’d rather we run to the Cabin Tavern.”
“Can’t. I’m ready.” Trey walked with Henry toward the gazebo.
“I’ve been an agent for years, but your ca
se made me scratch my head. June must have another reason for wanting to have a baby. I’d bet my life she would have done it with another man if you weren’t available.”
Henry stopped where he was supposed to stand then looked at his friend. “You think so?”
“I think so. Somehow, you’re the pick of the litter. The question is—what made you the one.”
“Don’t know.”
“Maybe she was already in love with you.”
Henry was saved from answering when everyone hushed them and looked toward the arch doorway where June was supposed to appear. Photographers started snapping pictures. Henry hated those fucking cameras. Some of the pictures would most likely end up in local papers.
“Well, let’s hope your marriage ends up like Julian’s.”
“Don’t know man.” He thought about what Trey had said. June would’ve really slept with a different man if he weren’t so gullible? Damn it all.
“I can’t wait to meet the woman who trapped Henry Colchester and made him achieve his dream in the process.” Trey chuckled.
Henry ignored his friend’s comment. His dream in exchange of marrying a woman with whom he felt unreasoned passion and intense sexual desire. Damn, he needed a drink.
Vivienne first appeared at the beginning of the path covered with scattered orchids. She looked fantastic in her gown, a small flower tucked behind her ear. She definitely got the men’s attention, even the married ones. Henry looked at Trey. Even his friend wasn’t immune to Vivienne’s beauty. Trey openly stared.
Henry elbowed him. “That is Vivienne. The waitress.”
“Fuckin’ A.”
Vivienne gave Henry a big smile, which she quickly replaced with a frown when he raised an eyebrow at her. God, what a brat. He glanced at Trey and caught him winking at Vivienne. She replied by looking heavenward.
“She likes me, Henry,” Trey whispered.
“Bro, she rolled her eyes at you.”
“Which means she likes me.”
“What?”
Trey’s reply was a big grin.
Everyone hushed again.
Then there was his bride, flanked by her parents. Henry couldn’t believe what he was seeing. He knew she was beautiful, but right now, she looked like an elusive mermaid every man wished to see. It must be her hair adorned by a crown of flowers, or the sparkle in her eyes. The gown added little to her charm. She could wear anything and she’d still look like Helen of Troy. Men would do anything to have a taste of her. Unlike him. He wouldn’t have to fight for her. She was his.
The Best of June Page 13