“Why is that thing running?” he demanded, stepping into my personal space.

The smell of stale alcohol and Vanessa’s perfume clung to his lapels.

“I was printing my vows,” I lied smoothly, forcing my heart rate to slow. “I couldn’t sleep. I wanted them to be perfect for you, Adrian.”

He stared at me for a long, agonizing moment.

His eyes narrowed, searching my face for the slightest twitch of deception. Slowly, a smug, satisfied smirk spread across his lips.

He reached out and stroked my cheek. I forced myself not to recoil from his touch.