Radiance (22 page)

“It’s pathetic.” 

“No.”  He smoothed his palm over her cheek.  “Not pathetic.  You’re loving.  We’re taking a lot and neither of us noticed you weren’t taking enough.” 

“I don’t need much,” she whispered.  “Usually I’m okay.” 

“Okay isn’t good enough, Brie.” 

After ten minutes, she didn’t feel as if she was going to shake apart.  Lifting her head, she stared at Harper.  Crawling across the couch, she sat in his lap and wrapped her arms around him. 

He tensed and held her awkwardly. 

“You don’t have to touch me back, Harper.  Just…let me be like this for a little.”  She held the back of his head and inhaled the clean smell of him.  “I know it’s stupid to you.  I know.” 

“You’ve been lonely?”  She nodded against him.  “I’m sorry.  I’m not accustomed to women who have real emotions.  I understand how someone like you would need to be hugged and everything.” 

“Someone like me?”  She was almost afraid to ask.

“Gentle.  Sweet.  It makes sense.” 

“Just give me a minute to remember how you smell, how you feel.”  She hugged him tight and listened to him breathe.  Rubbing her cheek over his shoulder, she planted a kiss at the hollow of his throat and moved to get up.

His arms tightened and held her in place.  “You can stay.” 

Heart pounding, she relaxed against him and wrapped her arms around his neck, petting the hair on the back of his head.  She was careful not to fidget. 

Elijah moved closer, his arm stretching out on the sofa behind them and wrapping his hand around the darker man’s shoulder.  His other stroked through her hair. 

Harper inhaled deeply.  “You’re kind of like a cat.” 

Looking at Elijah, she said, “I hope you
like
cats, Harper.” 

“They’re not bad,” he told her.  “They don’t usually like me.” 

Rubbing her hand over his chest, she whispered, “This one thinks you’re pretty amazing.” 

“I’m sorry.  I was selfish and inconsiderate, Gabriella.  It won’t happen again.”  Then he kissed her temple and settled her more fully in his arms.  The lull of his heartbeat soothed her.

The sun was at a different angle through the window when she opened her eyes and realized she’d fallen asleep.  Harper was asleep on Elijah’s shoulder, his face fully at peace.  She watched him without moving. 

Meeting green eyes, she smiled softly and Elijah winked. 

Only when Harper stirred did she pretend to wake up, stretching and rubbing against him.  Sitting up, she took her time kissing them, her hands on both at all times. 

Taking a deep breath, she held them close and said, “I really needed that.  I hate that we argued.  I’m glad we didn’t leave it that way.” 

Elijah cupped her face in his hand.  “We didn’t
argue
.  I was a misogynist ass and you didn’t let me get away with it.  I’m
more
worried about how lonely you’ve been.  Talk to me when you start feeling disconnected, Brie.  Things move fast day to day.  I don’t want to miss the signs.” 

Hand on the back of his head, she kissed him and whispered, “Thank you.  I love you.” 

* * *

Back in the main room, everyone was starting to file in for dinner when eight male and female members of the crew stepped up on stage. 

They stripped away their uniforms, music started to play, and they performed a highly skilled and decidedly raunchy dance routine to the shock – and clear enjoyment – of the guests. 

Beside them, Tawny said, “As if there weren’t going to be
strippers
at this thing.  I don’t fucking think so.  That shit’s sacred.” 

The redhead had her arms crossed, a smirk on her face. 

“You’re the coolest chick on the planet,” Brie said with admiration.  “You’ve
got
to tell me how you pulled this off.” 

Grinning, she replied, “Contacts.  That one has a
lovely
rack.” 

When the music ended, the room went crazy clapping. 

From behind them, Hudson said sternly, “Tawny.” 

The movie scream and boxing stance
never
got old. 

* * *

Hours later, Brie said goodbye to Harper and Elijah at the pier.  “See you when I see you.  Know I love you.  Coming back safely is important so…make that happen.” 

They nodded and took turns kissing her.  Elijah held her and said firmly, “I never doubt you, Brie.  I’m sorry I hurt your feelings.” 

One more kiss.  “We’re good.  Call me.” 

Then she walked to Hudson and Natalia, grinned up at a smirking Leonard, and got in the back of the car with a shake of her head. 

She carefully kept the conversation to the wedding and her friends didn’t push.  In the lobby, she hugged them tight.  “We’re getting close and I’m so excited.” 

“Seamstress tomorrow afternoon.  I’m taking you to dinner after.” 

“Okay.  Go celebrate your victory.  I’m exhausted and I love you.” 

The moment the elevator to the penthouse opened, Hudson practically lifted Natalia inside and his mouth was lowering to hers as the door closed. 

Waving at Carlo, she went to her apartment and took a quick shower.  Climbing into her bed, her phone went off.  She was shocked to see a text from Harper. 

“You looked beautiful today.  Thank you for being gracious when we fuck up.  It’s a first.  Sleep well, Gabriella.” 

She replied, “You looked beautiful as well.  Love means forgiveness.  Travel safe, Harper.”  Smiling to herself, she sent another.  “Any chance I can get you guys to send me a selfie?” 

Ten minutes later, Harper sent her one of them side by side on what she assumed was his private plane.  “You’d have thought I asked him to sing a fucking show tune in Times Square.  This is a first.  Ever.  For either of us.” 

The photo that downloaded was Harper giving his corporate smile and Elijah being his bodyguard self.  They looked gorgeous and she loved it more than would have made sense to anyone in her life. 

“You have no clue how happy I am right now.  One of me.” 

She held up her phone and took one of herself against her pillows with silly pouty lips.  Her hair was ridiculous but it was clear she wasn’t wearing clothes so…no fucks given. 

Seconds later, he texted, “Pan the fuck BACK, Gabriella.”  Laughing, she sent her first dirty photo ever, showing her breasts.  An almost instant reply.  “Pan back MORE, Gabriella.” 

Sighing, she stood and went into her bathroom.  Using a couple of curvy girl tricks for best results, she took a full body nude and sent it, adding, “Don’t make me regret this.” 

The phone rang and the instant she answered, Elijah said sharply, “One from the back.”  She laughed so hard she almost couldn’t hold her phone as she told him to wait while she took and sent it.  “Fuck.  Yes.  You’re so lovely.” 

“I won’t ask either of you to compromise yourselves and I have my own sketches locked away that are super dirty.” 

“Miss you already, Brie.” 

“I miss you, too.” 

“I’ll call you tomorrow.  I love you.” 

“I love you, too.  Tell Harper from me and then tell him from you.” 

“I will.  Goodnight, Brie.” 

Turning off all the lights, she climbed under her blankets.  She felt
much
better. 

* * *

Disconnecting, Elijah sent the final photo to Harper and he moaned when it delivered. 

“Dear
lord
, that ass.” 

“Agreed.”  He paused.  “She said to tell you she loves you and remind you that I love you as well.” 

Silver eyes lifted to his.  “Lovely of her.”  He saved each of the photos and tucked his phone in his suit jacket.  “Where do you see
me
in this arrangement, Elijah?” 

“I don’t understand the question.” 

“Withdrawn.” 

Elijah considered.  “Are you alright?”

“Of course.”  He opened his laptop as the plane lifted off. 

“Harper.”  Waiting for his full attention, he murmured, “A little longer.” 

“Yes.  Then we’ll see what happens.  I find myself more curious than ever before.” 

For a long time, he stared at his oldest friend and tried to figure out the emotional element of a relationship that had never discussed them, focused on them, or even cared about them in some ways. 

Brie was right.  He had no clue how to navigate it. 

* * *

During last fittings for her bridesmaid gown a few days later, Brie’s eyes widened in shock at the final result of Natalia’s design. 

“Um, this is…” 

“You need to be pure sex, Brie,” her friend explained.  “It’s black, classy, and going to lay over your golden flesh like a second skin.” 

She didn’t usually show so much and her scars made her self-conscious.  “I’m going to have a nip slip in this.  I’m going to bend over and my tits are going to fall out.” 

Raising one blonde brow, Natalia’s response was, “We can only hope, darling.” 

“I can’t be a sex kitten at your
wedding
…” 

“The fuck you can’t.  Leave me alone and let me work.”  She turned to the seamstress and mumbled, “Woman is getting laid if I have to supply the ropes to tie her ass down.” 

Unable to contain the fit of laughter the words provoked, Brie left the shop and waited across the street at the coffee shop. 

She lost all decorum around her friends.  It made her happy.

June 20, 2015 – The Wedding

“I don’t think I should have worn white, Gabriella.  I mean…really.”  Natalia stared at her reflection in the full-length mirror with a small frown between her eyes.  “My mother is probably
scandalized
.” 

Brie snorted.  “Yeah, right.  She’s fabulous and ridiculously chic.  Besides, she told you if you held a black and white wedding and then tripped down the aisle in
beige
– a color she looked ill to say – it would throw off the entire thing.  So!  Rock that designer gown that looks like it was painted on your fantastic body and anyone who doesn’t like it can fuck off.” 

Turning, the blonde took Brie’s shoulders.  “Are you sure you’re okay?  You pushed your recovery.” 

Lifting her hands, she cupped Natalia’s cheeks.  “You and Hudson deserve every single beautiful thing life has to offer.  I’m as anxious and excited as you are and if I pushed myself a little bit, I consider the outcome more than worth it.  I feel amazing.  If I get tired, I’ll sit down.” 

Turning the slim woman toward the mirror, she stared around her shoulder.  “Look at you, Natalia.  You’re dressed in a wedding gown and about to become the wife of the man you’ve loved for more than thirty years.”  She blinked back her tears.  “My happiness for you fills me up.” 

“Don’t make me cry, darling,” she whispered.  Raising a long-fingered hand, she placed it over Brie’s.  “I’m so grateful for you, for your friendship.”

Sniffling, Brie shook her head and gave Natalia’s shoulders a hug.  “We’re so emotional.  Okay!  I have to go check the lay of the land.” 

At the door, she paused and glanced back.  “Natalia?”  The blonde turned and the sunlight caught her just right.  “You are the most beautiful bride I’ve ever seen.  I can’t wait to see Hudson’s face when he sees you.  I’m going to watch him watch you.”

Two slender hands covered her friend’s lower face and she smiled through happy tears.

“Don’t get snot on your gown.”  She winked.  “I’ll be right back.”

* * *

After reassuring her best girlfriend and making sure she had everything she needed, Brie almost started bawling at the damn beauty of everything to do with a wedding she’d been waiting for as anxiously as the couple getting married. 

Closing the door of the bridal suite softly behind her, she walked as quickly as she was able to the other end of the hall and gave a soft tap on the door. 

“Enter.”

The abrupt response made her grin as she swung the door wide.  “Oh sweet
lord
, Hudson.  You look fucking outstanding.” 

Her best friend, a title the man earned every day, was dressed in a tuxedo.  His black hair was brushed back from his forehead and it was getting long enough that the natural waves were evident.

“Gabriella…I am a goddamn
wreck
.  You look lovely.” 

Her eyes widened as she closed the door and stopped in front of him.  “Thank you and we can fix whatever it is.” 

It was then that she realized he was having trouble with his tie. 

“I cannot
count
the number of times I’ve performed this unbelievably simple task.  This is bullshit.” 

She pretended not to notice that his hands shook and gave him a bright grin.  “It’s
clearly
the stupid tie.  Let me.”  Shooing his hands away, she took over until it laid properly.  “There.  Now you’re as perfectly perfect as your stunning bride to be.”

His eyes met hers and she loved the way he gave his complete attention when he talked.  “How is she?  Any sign of cold feet?”

“You damn well know
better
.”  She smoothed his lapel and straightened his boutonniere.  “She’s a little nervous and her emotions are close to the surface but I imagine those are feelings many brides share.” 

“I wouldn’t know.” 

She shrugged.  “Nor would I.”  His eyes flickered with an instant of sadness and she cupped his cheeks.  “If the two of you don’t stop worrying about me, I’ll marry the first man I see.”  Tucking a tiny stray hair behind his ear, she added, “I’m so damn
proud
of you, Hudson.  For so many reasons.”

“That means more than you realize, Brie.  Seeing you back on your feet makes the day that much more special.  I know you pushed so hard…” 

One finger over his lips, she insisted, “I’m
fine
.  Not ready to walk the streets yet…wait, that makes me sound like hooker.”  He gave her a full laugh.  “Anyway, I’m great and you aren’t permitted to worry about anyone or anything on the most important day of your life.  Promise?”

“You remain the most fascinating human being to me.” 

“As you are to me.  In my case, fascinating is often a synonym for weird but I’m cool with that.”  She rubbed her hands together.  “Now!  What can I do to help before we get this show on the road?  Any little tasks you need me to race out and do?” 

Glancing around, she gave a small scream at the sight of Harper and Elijah standing at the far end of the room, watching her. 

Neither had moved or made a sound since she walked in.

“Elijah and Delkin are here,” Hudson explained.  Rather unnecessarily, in her opinion. 

“Jesus.  Yes,
thank you
, Hudson.”  She inhaled carefully against the visceral reaction they caused.  “Hello.  I’m going to…
go
.” 

Pausing in the act of turning toward the door, Brie knew she couldn’t allow the presence of men she thought about more often than was healthy to stop her from saying what she needed to say. 

Turning back, she gave her best friend a gentle smile.  “I can’t express how honored I am to be part of this moment in your life.  You’re the best friend I’ve
ever
had, Hudson.  Thank you for a million things, big and small.”  She hugged him carefully but he wasn’t having it and gathered her tightly to him.  “Don’t be nervous.  It’s all going to be just right because that’s exactly what you deserve.” 

Releasing him, he cupped her face and bent to kiss her forehead.  “It was you.  We won’t forget.” 

“Don’t make me cry,” she whispered.  Squeezing his hand, she turned for the door. 

“Gabriella.”  Glancing over her shoulder, she met his eyes.  “Had Natalia not called dibs, you’d have been
my
best man rather than
her
maid of honor.”  He shrugged.  “As it was, I had to go with my oldest…friend.” 

Looking at Harper, his pewter eyes called to her, as did the green ones beside him.  She refused to think about how good the friends looked in their tuxedos. 

She had shit to do. 

“You made an excellent choice, Hudson.”  She laughed.  “However, I’d have loved watching a seamstress struggle to get
my
ass in a tux.  I’ll see you out there.” 

Just outside, she experienced a fit of nervous giggles barely muffled by her hands.  Finally able to calm herself, she returned to Natalia’s side.

* * *

An hour later, Brie stood on one side of the altar while Hudson and Harper stood on the other.  Elijah sat in the first row.  She could
feel
his gaze.

As Natalia appeared thirty feet away, the guests gasped and murmured about her incredible beauty but Brie kept her eyes firmly on Hudson.  The love, the near
worship
he held for his woman was evident on every inch of his face. 

It made her heart feel full to overflowing. 

Watching every step Natalia took down the aisle toward him, Hudson never blinked. 

Gabriella saw the shimmer of tears in his eyes and understood the journey the couple had taken to get to this place, this moment, in the history of their relationship. 

It was knowledge she treasured and she was overjoyed to be a witness to it.  Searing the moment into her mind, she knew she would sketch it later. 

Handing over her bouquet with trembling hands, Natalia turned to her fiancé.  Within mere moments, after more than thirty years of friendship, they were married at long last. 

Those assembled stood to clap and cheer. 

The newly wedded couple turned and bent as one to kiss her cheeks.  Natalia’s voice trembled with emotion, “Did you
see
?” 

Nodding happily, Brie was unable to stop a tear from slipping down her cheek.  She replied softly, “It was the single most beautiful moment I’ve ever witnessed in my lifetime and I won’t
ever
forget it.” 

They hugged her tightly between them.  “I love you both so much.  Congratulations.  Now go greet your guests as
husband
and
wife
…because it’s about damn time.” 

Laughing, they turned and spoke to Harper before walking up the aisle.  Natalia’s hand was through Hudson’s arm and he held her there securely. 

With her hands clasped over her heart and a smile that felt far too big for her face, Brie watched them take the first steps into their true future together. 

“Gabriella.” 

Inhaling sharply, she met Harper’s eyes.  He held out his arm and she put her hand through it robotically.  His warmth radiated through the expensive fabric. 

He placed his other hand over hers and gently stroked her skin with his thumb.  She glanced up at him and he smiled.  It was the first time she’d seen an expression on his face that neared actual happiness when he looked at her.

It stole her breath.

“Naturally, we’ll be required to dance.”  He winked.  “I’ll be careful with you, Brie.” 

Hudson’s oldest male friend led her toward the waiting limo that would carry them across town to the luxurious reception.  Elijah fell into step at her other side.  They pretended not to hear Riya call her name across the room.

Brie wondered if it was possible for a human heart to literally beat out of a person’s chest.  She knew the next few days would test the theory.

As they gently assisted her into the supple interior, Harper murmured, “Your time is now
up
, Gabriella.” 

The limo door closed quietly and she found herself wrapped in a cocoon with two men who inspired her every sexual fantasy for ten months…and fulfilled many of them without even realizing it. 

They were instantly on her, stroking their hands over and under the thin silk she wore. 

Concealed from the outside world less than ten minutes after her friends said their vows, Brie determined that Natalia had been absolutely right about the dress. 

“I want you naked.  I’ll settle for exposed.”  Harper’s hands slid beneath the straps of the bodice that had a hell of a lot more support than it looked.  He slid them off her shoulders, baring her upper body. 

Her nipples drew even tighter and neither man hesitated to lower their mouths to them.  Arching into them with a low moan, she settled her hands on the back of their heads. 

Releasing the tip with a soft pop, Elijah’s mouth claimed hers with ferocity.  His body pressed along her side and his erection throbbed through the layers of their clothes. 

Their hands stroked her everywhere and she chaotically wondered what they could accomplish before they reached the reception venue.

“Time.  How much time?”  She didn’t recognize her voice. 

“Too goddamn little, however much it is,” Harper said sharply.  She laughed unevenly and he rested his head above her breast.  The heat of the breath sawing in and out of his mouth felt wonderful.  “Fuck, Gabriella.” 

“A wonderful idea but not even a quickie is possible.” 

His answering laugh made her grin.  “I feel like an adolescent.  Complete lack of control.” 

“I’d like to officially say hello and ask how you’ve been.” 

Sitting up, she took them in.  She hadn’t seen them since the yacht party.  She needed a minute to get her breathing under control. 

Gripping her tightly, both men lifted their heads to look at her. 

The skin around Elijah’s mouth and eyes was tight.  “I thought I was going to swallow my fucking tongue when I saw you in this dress, Brie.” 

“Natalia’s selection.” 

“She’s a fucking genius.”  Harper raked his hand through his hair.  “Okay.  We have to get you together, Gabriella.  No way are we escorting you from this limo looking freshly fucked.” 

“If
only…
”  Her tone was wistful.

“Stop
talking
.  Stop
looking
at me like that or we’ll disappoint the newlyweds.  I need to be inside you more than I require social acceptance.” 

“I’ll behave.”  She shrugged the straps of her bodice into place and sat up to straighten the skirt. 

“It’s a crime against humanity to cover those tits,” Elijah said with a sad shake of his head.  He reached out to pet them through silk.  “Don’t worry, you’ll be free again soon enough.”