Page 69 of Island Rescuer

Both women were smiling as if they understood all the secrets of eager brides. Of course they did, both women were recently married and also consistently booked for weddings.

“We can find another place to be,” Knox said.

“I just wanted a few minutes before the chaos breaks out,” Harper admitted.

“There will not be chaos.” Nina said sternly. Her stoic expression cracked when she exchanged a glance with Molly.

“At least none that you know about. Bride’s privilege,” Molly said, her eyes sparkling. “Every wedding has some near-disaster that makes for fond memories.” She squeezed Harper’s hands. “If you want a few more minutes of quiet, avoid the breakfast room.”

“Already?”

Nina and Molly nodded in unison.

“Thanks for the tip,” Knox said. Saluting her with the sandwich, he grabbed Harper’s hand. “And thanks for making our day amazing.”

He rushed her away from her friends and out into the soft early morning air. The ocean was a faint drumbeat, growing louder. “Where are we going?”

“Just far enough.” He led her over a patch of thick grass in front of the dunes, sheltered by stout palm trees.

On a small bistro table flanked by two chairs a thick candle burned brightly inside a glass hurricane shade. A dark lunchbox was topped with a deep pink bow.

Knox pulled out one chair. “For you. To start the day right.”

She sank into the chair. “Knox.”

“Open it,” he said, taking the other chair.

“How did you manage this?”

“Love. Same as you.”

Tears threatened. She blinked them away as she untied the bow and opened the lunchbox. Inside, four glossy truffles were lined up in a row. “These are gorgeous.”

“Try one,” Knox urged, looking as excited as if the gift was his own. “Unless you want some real food first.”

She shook her head and plucked a truffle from the tray. Biting into it, she sighed as the flavors filled her mouth. Chocolate, marshmallow creme, and a crunchy graham cracker crumble blended into a perfect bite. “S’mores!” She tipped the box so he could take one. Enjoying this moment and remembering their night down by the fire pit. “You’re brilliant.”

“I just know where to shop.”

He was too humble. This interlude was so much more. He was right that they were making memories today. No matter what chaos or near-disaster happened today, as long as the minister declared them husband and wife, it would be the perfect start to their married life.

As the sun climbed into the sky, they shared the sandwich and polished off the final two truffles in a breakfast she would treasure forever.

And after a few sweet kisses full of promise, they blew out the candle and went back to the wedding day waiting for them.

* * *