Chapter 91: Chapter 90. Guilty as charged

Chapter 90

Lily

"Rose, leave him alone," Lily said, taking a small nibble of the sugar cookie in her hand.

Rose grinned proudly, flipping her hair over her shoulder. "It's not my fault Levi thinks he's funny when really he's just a walking lecture."

Levi narrowed his eyes, lounging on the couch with one ankle casually crossed over his knee. "Better a lecture than a walking glitter bomb. Seriously, how does someone get that much highlighter on their cheekbones? I'm going blind."

Rose scoffed. "You're just mad because you'll never be this radiant. Don't hate me because I sparkle. And how do you even know what highlighter is?"

"It's not sparkling, it's a safety hazard," Levi deadpanned.

Lily burst into laughter as Rose flung a pillow at Levi's head. He ducked, smirking.

"You missed," he taunted.

"You ducked!"

"Because you throw like a grandma."

"Oh, please, I could hit you with my eyes closed."

"Try it. Maybe then you'll stop putting glitter in your lashes like it's a personality trait."

"Say glitter one more time and I swear I'll—"

Before Rose could finish her threat, a knock came from the front door.

Everyone paused.

Rose glanced toward the hallway. "Were we expecting someone?"

"No," Lily said, still chuckling as she stood.

Just then, Daphne peeked her head into the room with a suspiciously smug smile. "Lily," she said in a sing-song voice, "you should get that."

Lily gave her a puzzled look. "Why?"

Daphne shrugged, all too innocently. "Just a hunch."

Levi narrowed his eyes. "That was shady."

"You're shady," Rose muttered under her breath.

"I heard that," Levi snapped.

"You were supposed to," Rose shot back sweetly.

"Okay, okay, stop," Lily said through her laughter, waving a hand at Levi and Rose as they continued their playful bickering. She shook her head in amusement, still grinning as she made her way to the door.

But the second she opened it, her breath caught—everything in her body stilled.

Gabriel was standing there.

Her eyes widened. For a split second, she just stared, completely frozen in place. Then—She screamed.

A high, breathless squeal of pure shock shot out of her as she stumbled back a step. "Oh my god!"

Before she even processed the rest of it—the bouquet of white lilies in his hand, the way his crooked smile tugged at her heart, the glint of warmth in his eyes—Lily launched herself at him.

"Gabriel!" she cried, arms flying around his neck as she threw herself into his chest. He barely had time to brace himself before she collided with him, burying her face into his shoulder as she practically wrapped herself around him.

He let out a small laugh, steadying himself with one arm around her waist, the other still clutching the bouquet.

"Hi, angel," he murmured, breath warm against her ear. "You miss me?"

Lily pulled back just enough to look at him, her face lit up in stunned joy. "How are you here? I—I didn't know you were coming!"

"You're welcome," came a voice from behind. Daphne leaned casually against the hallway wall, arms crossed and a smug little smile on her face. "I invited him for the wedding weeks ago."

Lily blinked in disbelief. "What?"

"I told him to keep it a surprise," Daphne added with a shrug. "Clearly, it worked."

"You're evil," Lily laughed, turning to Gabriel again, still holding onto him like she was afraid he'd vanish. "Oh my god. I can't believe this."

Gabriel looked at Daphne and nodded in agreement. "She threatened me not to tell you."

"I did not threaten you," Daphne replied dryly. "I persuasively encouraged you."

"Same thing," Gabriel muttered with a grin, then looked back at Lily. "But I'd do it again just to see that face."

Behind them, Rose let out an impressed whistle. "Damn....that's hot."

Lily ignored her, still half-laughing, half-breathless. "I can't believe you're actually here," she whispered again, forehead resting briefly against Gabriel's shoulder.

"I'm here," he said gently, brushing her hair behind her ear. "And I missed you like hell."

Lily didn't even try to stop the smile spreading across her face. "Yeah," she said softly. "I missed you too."

Daphne pushed off the wall with a smile and waved them in. "Alright, come inside before you both freeze."

Gabriel chuckled, still holding Lily close for a moment longer before stepping inside with her. The warmth of the house welcomed them, filled with soft music, faint laughter from down the hall, and the lingering scent of roses.

Lily practically beamed as she turned toward her family. "Okay, um—everyone, this is Gabriel. My boyfriend."

Gabriel gave a polite nod, his smile easy but a little amused as his eyes scanned the room. "Hi."

Rose raised both brows, clearly intrigued as she sized him up. "So this is Gabriel." She took a step forward, folding her arms. "Not bad. You're more handsome than Lily had described you to be. And trust me, I had to endure endless phone calls about how dreamy you are."

Lily rolled her eyes affectionately. "Gabriel, that's Rose—my cousin. And this," she said, gesturing toward the boy lounging on the couch with an unimpressed look, "is not Mason. This is Levi."

Levi offered a half hearted wave. "Hey."

Gabriel gave him a nod. "Nice to meet you both."

Rose's eyes sparkled with mischief as she took a slow sip from her soda can. "I'll be eighteen in a few months, by the way," she said, tone casually loaded.

Gabriel blinked, clearly taken aback, while Lily turned with wide eyes. "Rose!"

Levi chuckled. "Jesus Christ."

"What?" Rose shrugged innocently, but her grin said otherwise. "Just being friendly."

Gabriel let out a small laugh, shaking his head. "Noted," he said dryly, glancing sideways at Lily, who was now red in the face from a mix of embarrassment and laughter.

Daphne sighed from the doorway. "Welcome to the circus," she told him. "Hope you brought a helmet."

"No, shoot," Gabriel snapped his fingers. "Left it at home."

"Brace for impact," Daphne said, steering Rose away. "Lily, help him get settled. I'll let everyone else know he's here."

As they left, Lily turned back to Gabriel, her grin still impossibly wide. "I really can't believe you're here," she said, almost to herself, like she needed to say it out loud to make it real.

Gabriel tilted his head, watching her closely, fondness softening his features. "You keep looking at me like I'm going to vanish."

"You might," she said, still half-laughing. "I don't know, it just feels... unreal."

"Come here," he said gently, setting the bouquet of lilies on the side table and holding his arms open again. "Remind yourself I'm real."

Without hesitation, Lily stepped right into his arms again, wrapping her arms around him and resting her head against his chest. His warmth, the steady rhythm of his heartbeat—it all anchored her.

"I missed you so much," she murmured.

Gabriel pressed a kiss to the top of her head. "I missed you more, angel."

____________________________

Theo and Daphne

Theo stood a little ways off from the rest of the room, arms crossed loosely over his chest, a glass of something untouched in his hand. His gaze had settled—almost unwillingly—on the sofa where Lily sat beside Gabriel, their fingers intertwined between them, subtle but unmistakable. They weren't being overly affectionate, but the glances they kept stealing when they thought no one was looking... the small smiles... the quiet gravity pulling them closer.

Gabriel was talking animatedly with Levi and Luca, something sharp in his tone softened by the way his thumb absentmindedly brushed over Lily's hand. She didn't say much, but her eyes sparkled every time she looked at him, her whole posture relaxed in a way Theo hadn't seen in a long time.

Still, Theo's expression remained tense—hard jaw, narrowed eyes, a flicker of disapproval he wasn't even bothering to hide. He didn't say a word, but his silence said enough.

"Fix your face," came Daphne's voice behind him, teasing but firm as she stepped up beside him.

He glanced down at her with a low grunt. "What face?"

"That face," she said, nudging his elbow. "The one that says you're two seconds away from dragging him outside for a 'friendly chat.'"

Theo didn't respond right away, just looked back toward the couch with that same guarded stare. Daphne followed his gaze and sighed softly.

"You know he makes her happy, right?" she said more gently now, her voice a little warmer. "I haven't seen Lily look like that in a long time. She's glowing."

Theo's jaw shifted again, reluctant. "I don't have to like it," he muttered.

Daphne reached for his hand, curling her fingers around his. "No," she said. "But if you want to see Lily happy, really happy... then eventually, you're going to have to start liking him, too."

Theo didn't answer, but his grip on her hand tightened slightly. His gaze lingered on Lily—on the soft light in her eyes, the way her smile bloomed effortlessly when Gabriel leaned closer to whisper something in her ear.

Maybe Daphne was right. Maybe he didn't have to like Gabriel yet. But maybe he could start trying, for Lily's sake.

Daphne stepped closer, wrapping her arms around Theo's waist and pressing her cheek against his chest for a moment before slipping her hands up to his shoulders. With a playful tug, she turned his face away from the couch, away from Lily and Gabriel, until he was looking only at her.

"There," she said softly, peering up at him with a smile that was half teasing, half affectionate. "Much better view."

Theo's eyes softened the second he looked down at her. The tension in his jaw eased, the stubborn glint in his eyes fading as her presence grounded him. He smiled—just for her—and bent down to kiss the tip of her nose.

Daphne scrunched her face with a little giggle, then brushed her fingers gently along his collar.

"You know," she murmured, "someday we might have a girl of our own." Her voice was light, but the meaning settled deeply between them. "And if you keep being this overbearing, she's going to spend half her life rolling her eyes at you."

Theo chuckled, low and quiet, but there was a flicker of something tender in his eyes—like the idea had taken root somewhere in his chest. He looked down at her with a mixture of amusement and something far deeper.

"She'll be lucky if she's anything like you," he said.

Daphne grinned. "Then be nice to Gabriel. Consider it practice."

Theo chuckled again, his arms slipping around Daphne's waist as he pulled her closer, letting her settle fully against his chest. The warmth between them was familiar and effortless, like slipping into the soft rhythm of something they'd always known.

"Practice?" he murmured, pressing another kiss to her hairline. "You're really trying to domesticate me."

"You make it sound like I found you in the wild," Daphne teased, smiling into his shoulder. "Which... honestly, isn't that far off."

He laughed at that, the sound rumbling through her, and she felt it like a hum beneath her skin—steady, comforting.

"Hard to believe the wedding's almost here," she said quietly, her voice dipping into something softer, more intimate. She pulled back just enough to look up at him again. "A few more hours and we'll be married."

Theo's gaze turned thoughtful, a flicker of disbelief in his eyes, like he was still trying to grasp how quickly everything was falling into place.

"I keep thinking about that moment," he said. "When I'll see you walking down the aisle." His thumb brushed the side of her waist, slow and deliberate. "You in that dress, everyone else just disappearing the second I see you."

Daphne's cheeks flushed at the way he said it, so sure and reverent, like he'd already played it over a thousand times in his head.

"I'll probably cry," she admitted with a sheepish smile. "I'm already emotional and we're not even at the rehearsal dinner yet."

Theo smirked. "You cry at dog food commercials."

"It's sad when the dog grows old, okay?" she said defensively, swatting at his chest.

He caught her hand mid-swat and kissed her fingers instead, his voice softening again. "I'm excited," he said. "For everything. The wedding. The house. The life after." He paused, then added, "The babies we're going to make. Everything with you just... makes sense."

Daphne's heart swelled at his words, and she leaned up to kiss him, slow and lingering, like a promise wrapped in warmth.

"We're going to have a beautiful life, Theodore," she whispered. "Not perfect. Not easy all the time. But beautiful."

He smiled, forehead resting against hers. "As long as you're in it, Sunshine... it already is."

___________________________

Wendy and Mason

The long day crawled to the evening of the rehearsal dinner. Wendy stood in front of the mirror, her fingers brushing over the fabric of her dress, smoothing it down even though it didn't need it. The soft satin hugged her waist and fell in elegant folds, the pale color making her look more delicate than she felt. Her hair was pinned just the way she'd practiced, her earrings caught the light gently, and from the outside, she looked perfectly composed.

But her eyes didn't linger on the reflection of her dress or her makeup. They flicked past it, unfocused, restless. Her fingers tugged at the hem again, then the neckline, then back to the hem.

Mason stepped into the room, pausing in the doorway for a beat before his eyes found her. A slow, genuine smile tugged at his lips.

"Wow," he said softly. "You look so beautiful."

Wendy glanced at him in the mirror and offered a smile, faint but appreciative. "Thank you," she said, smoothing her dress one more time, like she hadn't heard him properly.

Mason crossed the room, slipping his arms around her from behind. He rested his chin on her shoulder, meeting her gaze in the mirror.

"You okay?" he asked, his voice gentle. "You seem a little... off."

"I'm fine," Wendy said quickly, brushing it off with a shrug and a half-smile.

But even as she leaned into him slightly, her mind was far from the warmth of his arms or the sparkle of the evening ahead.

She didn't say what she was really thinking.

She didn't say how weddings always made her uncomfortable, how all the big romantic speeches and teary-eyed vows made her skin crawl. The slow dances, the sentimental toasts, the promise of forever—it all felt theatrical to her, overly sweet, almost hollow. Everyone clapping and smiling like love could fix anything. Like it was some magical cure-all.

Wendy didn't believe in that stuff. Not really. The whole thing made her feel like a fraud standing in a costume, playing a part she didn't believe in.

Still, she smiled, because that's what you're supposed to do.

"You sure?" Mason asked again, watching her expression.

She nodded, eyes back on the mirror. "Yeah," she said softly. "Just tired."

Mason noticed the way Wendy's smile didn't quite reach her eyes, the slight tension in her shoulders, the way she seemed to retreat inward despite standing right in front of him. He wasn't convinced by her words. He knew her well enough to see that something was bothering her, but he also knew she wasn't the type to open up easily when she didn't want to.

A thoughtful pause stretched between them before he spoke, his voice gentle but determined.

"Hey, we don't have to stay here the whole night, you know," he said, his thumb lightly tracing the curve of her arm. "If you're not feeling it, we can bail. Do something you want to do. I'll take you somewhere quiet, anywhere you want."

Wendy blinked at him through the mirror, her lips parted slightly as if the offer had caught her off guard. It was tempting, more tempting than she wanted to admit. Mason always had a way of reading her moods, of offering little escapes when she needed them most.

But she wasn't sure if she wanted to break the tension of the evening just yet. She could feel the pressure of expectations weighing on her, especially with Theo and Daphne counting on everyone being present and in high spirits.

"I don't know," she said, biting her lower lip. "I'll be fine. Just... just not my scene, I guess."

Mason, however, wasn't one to give up easily when it came to Wendy's comfort. He leaned down, his breath warm on her neck as he whispered, "We can sneak out and go do something completely different. No one has to know. Just us."

Her heart skipped a beat at the thought, the idea of escaping the room full of well-meaning smiles, the clinking glasses, the suffocating sentimentality. Her eyes softened as she looked up at him in the mirror, the weight of his words pulling at her.

Wendy hesitated for a moment, but then her shoulders relaxed just a fraction. "You're serious?" she said quietly, her lips curving into a small, private smile.

Mason's grin was a mix of mischief and tenderness, his eyes sparkling with the same quiet confidence that always made Wendy feel like she could do anything.

"Of course I am," he said, nudging her playfully. "If you want to leave, we will leave. I hate seeing you with that frown on your lips."

Wendy chuckled softly, the idea lingering in her mind. But she didn't speak for a moment, letting the idea of a spontaneous escape settle in her chest, giving her a brief flicker of excitement. She smiled again, this time more genuinely.

"Okay," she said, feeling the heaviness of the night lift just a little.

"That's my girl," Mason smiled, kissing her cheek.

_____________________

Lily

The night air was cool and fresh, and the gardens of Daphne and Theo's new home were bathed in the soft glow of string lights draped overhead. Lanterns flickered along the stone pathways, casting warm pools of light on the plants and flowers that surrounded them. The atmosphere was quiet, peaceful, the sounds of distant laughter and clinking silverware barely reaching them as the rehearsal dinner preparations continued.

Lily and Gabriel walked slowly, side by side, through the garden, their footsteps soft on the gravel. The sounds of the party felt far away, as if they were in their own world, a little bubble that belonged only to the two of them.

They paused beneath a large tree, the branches swaying gently in the night breeze, leaves rustling softly above them. Gabriel turned to her, noticing the way she shivered in the cold. He watched as Lily's shoulders hunched slightly, her arms wrapped around herself as the cool night air nipped at her skin.

Without a word, he reached for the lapels of his blazer, pulling it off and draping it over her shoulders with a gentle motion. His hands lingered for just a moment, his fingertips brushing against the soft fabric of her dress.

Lily looked up at him, her heart fluttering as she felt the warmth of his jacket settle around her. She smiled softly, the warmth of his gesture spreading through her chest like a quiet fire. Gabriel gave her a small, knowing smile in return, and before she could say anything, he stepped closer, his hands reaching for her.

"Come here," he murmured, guiding her into his arms with a tenderness that made her heart skip. She hesitated for only a moment before stepping into him, her arms wrapping around his neck as he pulled her closer, their bodies swaying gently in the cool breeze.

The distant sound of piano music from the party reached their ears, soft and melodic, the perfect backdrop for their little world in the garden. Gabriel's hands rested at her waist, guiding her as they slowly began to move in time with the music. Lily let out a soft laugh, her head resting against his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath her ear.

They moved in a gentle, slow dance beneath the tree, the soft light of the lanterns catching on Gabriel's features as he looked down at her, his eyes soft and full of warmth. She felt safe in his arms, the world outside their little bubble fading away with each step they took.

"You okay?" Gabriel whispered, his voice low and warm, his lips brushing her hair as he spoke.

Lily closed her eyes, letting herself get lost in the moment. "I'm perfect," she whispered back.

The music played on, and they swayed together, the garden around them alive with the quiet beauty of the night. The only sound was the soft rustling of leaves and the distant laughter of the party, but in this moment, it felt like they were the only two people in the world.

Gabriel's arms tightened around her ever so slightly, pulling her closer as if he never wanted to let go. And for the first time in a while, Lily felt the weight of everything else fall away, her heart light and free as she danced with him beneath the stars.

"Lily," Gabriel began slowly after a while. "About Vanessa..."

Lily's eyes shifted to the dark lake over Gabriel's shoulder. She knew the conversation was bound to happen, yet she still dreaded it.

"I know what you were probably thinking," Gabriel said, as he brushed his lips over her temple. "I mean after what Jake did..."

Lily's chest tightened, and for a moment, the warmth she felt in Gabriel's arms seemed to fade, replaced by a familiar, gnawing insecurity that crept into her thoughts. She couldn't help it—her mind wandered to all the other girls Gabriel must have been with. Beautiful, confident girls. Girls who knew exactly how to stand out in a room, girls who were everything Lily didn't feel like she was.

Her eyes flickered back to him, feeling a sudden rush of doubt. He'd been with so many girls who were effortlessly glamorous, lively, always the center of attention. And then there was her, a girl who still sometimes wondered if her nose was too big, if she dressed awkwardly, if she was interesting enought. She bit her lip, trying to shake the thoughts away, but they lingered.

"Do you... think I'm boring?" Lily whispered, her voice barely above the sound of the breeze rustling the leaves. Her eyes lifted to meet his, searching his face for an answer she didn't know if she even wanted to hear. "Do I have an ugly nose or do I dress weird?"

Gabriel's hand, which had been resting gently on her waist, tightened around her, pulling her even closer to him. His fingers brushed against the soft skin of her back, the touch both reassuring and tender. He studied her for a moment, as if trying to figure out where the sudden sadness in her eyes had come from. The moment seemed to stretch between them, filled with silence, and for a brief second, Lily feared that maybe he didn't know how to answer her.

But then he spoke, his voice quiet but firm. "You are the most interesting person I know, Lily." His tone was sincere, and his gaze never wavered from hers. "You think I'm still hung up on any of those other girls? I'm not. I haven't even looked at anyone else. I only have eyes for you. You're the one I want, the one I can't stop thinking about. And I think you're beautiful—inside and out."

Lily let out a shaky breath, the weight on her chest easing just a little, but doubt still lingered in her mind, too stubborn to completely let go.

"Jake...." she asked quietly, her voice cracking slightly. "He told me I wasn't pretty enough for anyone. He said I was borning and that I dressed like I was going to church every day."

The words felt like a knife in her chest, even now, after everything. She knew they were cruel, but they still stung, still echoed in her mind every time she looked in the mirror or doubted herself.

Gabriel's expression shifted then, a flash of anger flickering in his eyes at the mention of the name. His arms tightened around her, his body stiffening for a brief moment as if he were ready to do something about it, something to erase the pain Jake had caused her. But instead, he leaned down, his forehead resting against hers, their breaths mingling in the space between them.

"Don't you ever believe that," Gabriel murmured, his voice low and steady. "You're more than good enough. You're more than anyone could ask for. You don't need to measure up to anyone's standards—especially not his."

Lily closed her eyes, her chest rising and falling with a shaky breath as she allowed his words to sink in. She was so used to carrying the weight of those old insults, the ones that had been burned into her mind, that hearing him speak so earnestly made her feel a little lighter.

"I'm here because I want to be," Gabriel continued, his voice soft but insistent. "Because you're incredible."

Lily let his words wash over her, the feeling of his arms around her grounding her. She opened her eyes, gazing up at him with a mix of relief and vulnerability. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.

Gabriel smiled softly, his hand brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You're welcome, angel."

Gabriel's smile lingered as he gazed at her, his thumb gently stroking the side of her cheek. The moment stretched between them, filled with a tenderness that spoke volumes more than words ever could.

Lily felt her heart beat faster, her entire body drawn toward him, her hands resting lightly on his chest as if grounding herself in this moment. The air between them seemed to shimmer, the space filled with quiet intimacy, and all the noise of the world—of insecurities and doubts—faded away.

His eyes flickered down to her lips. Gabriel leaned in slowly, his gaze never leaving hers. He brushed his lips against her forehead, then, with gentle assurance, kissed her lips—soft, almost tentative, as if he was waiting for her to respond.

Lily's breath caught in her throat as the kiss deepened, still slow and tender, like he was savoring every second. His lips moved against hers with a sweetness that made everything inside her flutter, and the touch of his hand on her back, pulling her closer, sent a shiver through her.

Lily leaned into his hard body, letting him hold her weight as she looped her arms around his neck and lifted one feet off the ground.

_______________________

Wendy and Mason

Wendy sat beside Mason at the dinner, the warm glow of the chandeliers casting soft light across the room, the clink of glasses and quiet chatter making up the backdrop. Her fingers rested lightly on her lap, her gaze flickering across the room as Luca stood up, glass in hand, his presence commanding the attention of everyone in the room.

Luca cleared his throat, and the noise in the room hushed instantly, all eyes turning to him. A smile tugged at his lips as he began, the weight of what he was about to say evident in the way he took a deep breath, as though the words had been sitting in him for years, waiting for the perfect moment to be spoken.

"To Theo and Daphne," Luca began, his voice steady and warm. "Love, in all its forms, can be a tricky thing to understand. But when you find the right person, when you find the one you're meant to stand beside, it's as if everything finally makes sense. You realize that love isn't about perfection—it's about commitment, trust, and the quiet, everyday moments where two souls just... fit together."

Wendy shifted slightly in her seat, the weight of his words settling over her like a blanket she didn't want to be under. She had heard speeches like this countless times—words about love and forever, about finding the person who makes you feel like you're home. But it felt... foreign to her, like an idealized version of a fantasy world.

Luca continued, his voice growing softer, more personal. "Theo, Daphne—you two have already shown us all what it means to be partners in the truest sense. You support each other in ways that go beyond anything I could've imagined. Your love isn't just something you feel in fleeting moments. It's something you live, every single day."

The words felt heavy to Wendy, each one stacking up in her chest. She could feel her stomach twist, and she refrained from rolling her eyes, though the urge to do so was strong.

It all seemed too easy, too idealistic. Life wasn't that simple, and neither was love. People were messy. Relationships were messy. So why did they keep selling this idea of love as something flawless, as something everyone should aspire to?

Mason, noticing the slight shift in her posture, nudged her gently with his elbow, offering a knowing smile. She didn't return it, her lips pressed into a tight line as Luca went on, his words about commitment and standing by your partner feeling like a weight she didn't know how to shake.

"Marriage," Luca said, his tone gentle but firm, "is not just a bond between two people. It's a bond that reflects the best parts of us, the parts that we don't always show the world, but that we save for the one we love. And that's what makes it beautiful. The quiet acts of love, the little moments of understanding, and the unwavering promise to always be there for each other—no matter what."

Wendy swallowed hard, forcing herself to keep her face neutral. She didn't want to be the one who ruined the moment, especially not for Theo and Daphne, who were clearly happy. But the longer Luca spoke, the more it felt like a performance—one she didn't feel like playing along with. She couldn't help but wonder how many people believed in those words fully, and how many just pretended.

When Luca finally finished, raising his glass in a toast to Theo and Daphne, the room erupted into applause. Wendy couldn't bring herself to clap. Instead, she sipped her wine, the taste of it almost bitter on her tongue as she tried to shake the discomfort that had settled in her chest.

Mason leaned back in his chair, a satisfied grin on his face as he turned toward Lily and Gabriel, who were sitting across from him at the table. The air around them was still buzzing with the remnants of Luca's speech, and Mason couldn't help but feel a sense of joy.

"That was honestly one of the best speeches I've ever heard," he said. "Dad nailed it."

Lily nodded, "It was definitely moving."

Gabriel, on the other hand, chuckled. "I didn't think he could be such a softie."

Mason leaned forward, clearly caught up in the emotion of the moment. "I know, right? I'm glad Theo and Daphne have that kind of support." He smiled widely, clearly enjoying the warmth of the moment. "Daphne's parents are adorable. Have you met the, Gabriel?"

Wendy, sitting next to Mason, suddenly felt a wave of irritation rise within her. She hadn't been able to shake off the discomfort from Luca's speech, and now hearing Mason talk about it so enthusiastically made her feel like she was the odd one out.

Her fingers tightened around her wine glass, her grip almost reflexive. She knew Mason had always been the sentimental type, but the way he seemed to revel in the whole "love and family" drama made her stomach twist. She glanced at him, noticing the way his eyes sparkled as he spoke, how he clearly got a kick out of the whole thing. He was enjoying all the drama, and that realization irritated her more than she expected.

"Yeah," she said, her voice tighter than she meant it to be. "Nice speech." She forced a smile, but it felt too fake, too strained.

Mason glanced at her, a slight frown tugging at his lips as he noticed her tone. "What's wrong?" he asked, his voice softening.

Wendy shook her head, pretending everything was fine. "Nothing. Just tired." She took another sip of her wine, trying to focus on something—anything—that could distract her from the weird feeling that had settled in her chest.

But the truth was, Mason's enthusiasm for the whole thing only made her feel more like an outsider in a room full of people who bought into this fairy-tale vision of love and marriage. And she hated that it bothered her.

Mason watched Wendy carefully, his brow furrowing slightly as he registered the subtle shift in her demeanor. She wasn't her usual self—there was something off in the way she sat, the way her gaze drifted away from him, as if she was physically there but mentally elsewhere. He could feel the tension radiating from her, even as she tried to mask it.

He reached out and placed a hand on her knee, a simple, comforting gesture.

"Are you okay?" His voice was soft, laced with concern. He could tell it was more than just being tired, but he didn't want to press her if she wasn't ready to talk.

Wendy looked at him, her expression flickering for a moment before she quickly masked it. "Yeah, I'm fine. Really." But her smile didn't quite reach her eyes, and he knew she wasn't being completely honest.

Mason leaned in, a thoughtful expression on his face. "You sure?" His voice was a little more insistent this time, not wanting to let her slip away into herself. "If you're not feeling it, we can leave. I mean, it's your choice. We don't have to stay if you don't want to."

Wendy looked at him. "No, Mason, you should stay for your family," she said, shaking her head lightly. "This is important to them."

Mason didn't miss the way her eyes flickered with discomfort. He smiled softly, giving her knee a reassuring squeeze.

"I'd much rather be with you," he said, his voice warm and genuine. "They can wait. But you... I want to be with you."

Wendy felt a little tug at her heart at the sincerity in his voice. He saw her, really saw her, and yet... she wasn't sure what was bothering her so much tonight.

She opened her mouth to say something, but before she could, Mason gave her a playful nudge. "Come on, let's just get out of here. We can go grab some ice cream or head somewhere quiet. Whatever you want. You don't have to be stuck in this room if it's making you uncomfortable."

For a moment, Wendy felt the weight of it all—the speech, the emotions, the expectations—lift just a little bit. Mason's presence was grounding, as it always was, and the offer of a peaceful escape felt like exactly what she needed. She felt seen, cared for, but also a little guilty for wanting to run away from his family's happiness.

She bit her lip, her gaze falling back to the table, and then back up to Mason's eyes. "Okay," she said, her voice quieter now. "Let's go. I just need a minute."

Mason nodded, his expression softening. He didn't push her further, just let her know he was there, ready to leave whenever she was.

__________________________

Lily

The hum of the car engine was the only sound in the air as Gabriel drove through the quiet streets, the soft glow of streetlights illuminating the road ahead. The city seemed to breathe around them, peaceful and calm after the hustle of the dinner. Gabriel's focus was entirely on Lily, her voice a melody that filled the car as she spoke.

Lily leaned back in the seat, her legs tucked beneath her, her eyes sparkling as she recounted the books Gabriel had bought her for Christmas. She couldn't stop talking about them—the way the stories had pulled her in, the characters she'd grown to love, and the ones that made her laugh out loud. Her words tumbled out easily, animated and full of life, as if she were sharing a piece of herself with him.

"I finished The Night Circus in two days," Lily said, her hands gesturing as she spoke, excitement still clear in her voice. "The magic in it was so... so real, you know? Like, I could actually see it. And the way the author describes everything, it's like you're right there, in the circus, in the middle of all the wonders."

Gabriel smiled, his eyes never leaving the road but his attention fixed on her. He listened to every word with rapt attention, like there was nowhere else he wanted to be, nothing else he wanted to hear. The sound of her voice, the way her face lit up when she talked about something she loved—it was captivating. And he found himself falling deeper for her, in this moment, in her world of words and stories.

"You always get so excited when you talk about books. I could listen to you talk about them forever," he said, his voice warm and full of affection.

Lily laughed lightly, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "Maybe I talk too much about them, though." She shrugged, her smile playful. "I could fill an entire evening talking about the ones I still need to read. But you don't mind, right?"

"Not at all," Gabriel replied without hesitation, his voice rich with sincerity. "I could listen to you talk about anything." He turned briefly to meet her eyes, a small, fond smile playing at the corner of his mouth.

Lily felt a warmth spread through her chest. It made her heart flutter a little, and she couldn't help but smile, even though she was the one talking.

When they arrived at his hotel, Gabriel pulled into the parking garage, and Lily continued chatting as they made their way inside. She was still rambling about the plot twists in the second book of the series when they stepped into the elevator. Gabriel listened attentively, laughing at her jokes, nodding thoughtfully when she paused for a moment to gather her thoughts.

"Wait until you get to the end of this one," Lily said as the elevator doors closed. "It completely changed the way I see storytelling."

"I'm looking forward to it," Gabriel said, his voice soft, as he stepped closer to her. He couldn't help but watch her with a smile on his face, enjoying the way she could get so lost in something she loved.

Lily stepped into Gabriel's hotel room, her excitement from their conversation still buzzing in her chest. But as soon as her eyes fell on the space before her, everything seemed to freeze.

The room was bathed in the soft, golden glow of dozens of candles—each one flickering gently, casting delicate shadows on the walls. Roses in varying shades of red and white were scattered across the floor, forming a path leading further into the room. The petals were perfectly arranged, each one carefully placed as if they were part of a grand design.

Lily's breath hitched in her throat. She stood frozen for a moment, unsure of what to say, her heart pounding in her chest. It was so intimate, so thoughtful, and the realization slowly dawned on her—this wasn't just a night together. This was something different, something special. Something that made her feel like the center of his world.

She heard Gabriel's footsteps behind her, and before she could gather her thoughts, his warmth pressed against her back. His hand brushed her shoulder as he leaned in, placing a soft, lingering kiss on her cheek. His lips were warm against her skin, and the simple gesture made her feel lightheaded.

"Do you like it?" Gabriel asked softly, his voice low and steady, filled with a quiet kind of affection.

Lily's breath caught in her throat as she turned her head to face him. Her heart was beating so loudly, she was sure he could hear it.

"It's... beautiful," she whispered, her voice trembling slightly as she took in the room again.

Gabriel gave her a small, almost shy smile, as if he was waiting for her to approve, but when his eyes met hers, there was something deeper in them—a sincerity that made Lily's chest tighten. He reached for her hand gently, the warmth of his touch making her feel grounded, even as the anticipation hung heavy in the air.

Her thoughts scattered as Gabriel's lips brushed against her ear, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Lily," he murmured, "I want tonight to be special for you."

He pulled her closer, the space between them shrinking as he lowered his lips to her neck, sending a shiver down her spine.

Lily closed her eyes, her heart hammering in her chest as the reality of the situation sank in. They were about to share something so intimate, so new, and Gabriel was making it clear that he wanted to make it special for her. Her hands found his chest, and she could feel the rhythm of his own heartbeat under her fingers, just as wild as hers.

"Gabriel..." she whispered, unsure of what to say next. Everything felt like it was building up to this moment—the roses, the candles, the warmth between them.

Gabriel pulled back just slightly, his gaze soft but intense as he looked down at her. "I'm here with you," he said, his voice full of tenderness. "No more waiting, no rush, no pressure. Just... us."

Her heart swelled, and she gave a small nod, unable to speak as the emotions swirling inside her made her feel lightheaded. She trusted him, fully, and that trust made this moment feel like the most natural thing in the world.

Gabriel stepped forward, taking her hand and leading her further into the room. And with each step, Lily felt herself falling deeper into the warmth of his embrace, knowing that tonight would be a turning point, a beginning. A new chapter that she couldn't wait to write with him.

Gabriel gently cupped Lily's face, his thumb grazing her cheek as he leaned in closer. Her breath hitched, the space between them electric with the tension of what was about to happen. His lips brushed against hers softly at first, tender and slow, as if savoring the moment. The warmth of his touch and the tenderness in his kiss made her knees feel weak, and her heart fluttered in her chest.

But then, as the kiss deepened, Lily felt a sudden surge of shyness wash over her. The intimacy of the moment, combined with the soft glow of the candles around them, made her feel exposed in a way she wasn't used to. She pulled back slightly, her cheeks flushed, her breath coming in quick, uneven gasps.

"Wait," she giggled softly, almost embarrassed by how her body was reacting. Her hands pressed to her lips, still tingling from his kiss.

Gabriel chuckled, the sound warm and rich, and he pulled back just enough to look at her with a playful smile.

"What's wrong?" he teased gently, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

Lily's laugh was light and full of warmth, though her cheeks were still flushed. "I just... I'm nervous."

Gabriel smiled even wider, his gaze softening with affection. He leaned forward again, but this time, his kiss was slower, softer, as if he were giving her time to adjust to the wave of emotion that seemed to crash over her.

"You don't have to be anything but yourself with me," he whispered against her lips before kissing her again, this time with a quiet reassurance.

Lily's heart thudded in her chest as she melted into the kiss, her earlier nerves slipping away. It felt right, like everything was falling into place. And as Gabriel's lips moved gently over hers once more, Lily couldn't help but giggle again, this time because the sweetness of the moment was almost too much to bear. She didn't know why she was nervous, but being with him, in this moment, felt like exactly where she was meant to be.

Gabriel's kiss deepened, growing more urgent, as his hands slid gently around Lily's waist, pulling her closer. The world around them faded, leaving only the warmth of his body pressed against hers, the soft brush of his lips, and the rhythm of their breathing. She melted into him, her hands trailing up to rest on his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath her fingers.

Slowly, they both moved toward the bed, their bodies sinking into the soft sheets, still tangled in each other's arms. The room seemed to grow warmer with every kiss, the tension between them palpable, as if they were inching closer to something that could change everything. Gabriel's lips were gentle against hers, his hands exploring the curve of her back, pulling her deeper into the moment.

But then, as his lips trailed down to her neck, the weight of Wendy's words crept into Lily's mind.

You need to be honest with him, Lily.

The memory of Wendy's voice cut through the haze of desire, making her stomach twist with unease.

Lily's body trembled with anticipation as she felt the heat of Gabriel's touch, his presence overwhelming her every sense. The tension between them crackled, a tangible force, and she could feel herself leaning toward him, wanting him in every way possible. Her heart pounded in her chest, her skin alive with the need to close the distance between them. Every inch of her was screaming for him, for his kiss, for his touch, for everything that he made her feel. The way he looked at her, the way his lips brushed against hers, made her feel like she could lose herself in him forever.

Lily wanted this—God, she wanted this more than anything.

Every part of her screamed to let go, to stop fighting what was so clearly in front of her. Gabriel was everything she had ever wanted—warm, patient, kind. He made her feel seen, understood, and loved in a way she hadn't known was possible.

The guilt twisted inside her like a knot, but the desire to be close to him, to lose herself in the way he made her feel, only grew stronger. She wanted this night more than anything. But she couldn't let herself have him—not yet, not until she could tell him the truth.

Her hands clenched at her sides, fighting the urge to pull him back into the warmth of their embrace. She wanted to surrender, to be with him in every way, but she couldn't—not yet.

Her hand, which had been resting lightly on Gabriel's shoulder, moved to her chest as if trying to steady the rapid thudding of her heart. She pulled away slightly, creating a small space between them, the cold air rushing in to fill the void. Gabriel paused, sensing the shift, and lifted his head, concern flickering in his eyes.

"What's wrong?" His voice was soft, gentle, full of care, but there was a thread of uncertainty running through it. He searched her face, looking for any sign of discomfort.

Lily's breath caught in her throat as her mind raced, her chest tightening with anxiety. She couldn't meet his eyes, the guilt gnawing at her with each passing second. She knew he deserved the truth. He deserved to know that their relationship hadn't started on a foundation of honesty, and that was why, despite everything, she felt so torn.

"I..." She struggled to find the right words, but they caught in her throat, suffocating her. "I don't know," she whispered, her voice trembling as she pulled back further. Her mind raced as she searched for some way to explain it, but all she could hear was the voice of her own doubt. The image of Wendy's face, urging her to be honest, pressed heavily against her. "I....I can't do this...."

Gabriel's gaze softened as he noticed the vulnerability in her eyes. He gently cupped her face, his thumb brushing across her cheek in a tender, reassuring gesture.

Lily closed her eyes, feeling Gabriel's presence enveloping her like a warm, steadying force. His words were soft and understanding.

"It's okay," he had said, his voice low, soothing. "We don't have to do anything. We can take a step back."

She could feel his thumb gently brushing across her cheek, the tender touch grounding her, easing the tightness in her chest. His kindness, his patience—it was overwhelming but in a good way. It made her heart ache, and as she let herself breathe in the moment, something deep inside her shifted.

For the first time, she let herself accept that she had truly fallen for him. Hard.

Not just in a fleeting way, not just for the rush of their chemistry or the intensity of their moments together, but in a way that felt deeper, more real. Gabriel wasn't just some guy—he was who Lily wanted to hand her heart over to.

But with that realization came another wave, one that hit her like a cold splash of water. The guilt.

The truth about how their relationship had started—the lies she'd kept to herself about how Alexa had stolen her boyfriend, how she had turned to Gabriel as a way to escape that pain—pressed against her like a heavyweight. She wasn't being honest with him, and that hurt in a way she hadn't fully understood until now.

She didn't want him to see her as someone who had used him, even if that wasn't entirely the case. She wanted him to see her for who she was now, not just as the girl who had been hurt and had made impulsive choices.

She wanted to be the person he deserved—honest, whole, real. But the fear of his disappointment, the shame she felt about the way everything had started, made it difficult to even speak the truth.

Her chest tightened, a mix of longing and guilt warring inside her. She could feel herself pulling away, torn between the overwhelming need to tell him everything and the instinct to protect herself from the vulnerability that came with it.

"Gabriel," she whispered, her voice barely audible, trembling. She looked up at him, meeting his eyes for the first time since everything had shifted. His face softened, but there was still that quiet patience there as if he was waiting for her to find her words.

"I—I'm so sorry," she said softly, the words spilling out before she could stop them.

Her fingers tightened on the sheets beneath them as she fought to find the words. But the fear gripped her, icy and suffocating. She was afraid of what he would think of her if he knew the truth. Would he hate her for how everything had started? Would he see her as a liar, as someone who had been dishonest all along?

The silence stretched between them, thick with the unspoken. Gabriel's gentle gaze held her, his thumb brushing lightly across her skin. It was as if he was waiting for her, allowing her the space she needed, but the pressure was mounting with every passing second. Her chest tightened, torn between wanting to tell him everything and the instinct to pull back, to protect herself from the raw vulnerability of it all.

"Gabriel," she whispered, her voice trembling as she spoke his name, the sound of it like a confession in itself. She shifted away from him just slightly, her heart pounding in her ears. He noticed the change instantly, his brow furrowing with concern.

"I... I need some time," she whispered, her voice cracking with the uncertainty she felt. "To think. To gather my thoughts."

Gabriel's eyes searched hers for a moment, his lips pressing together in a thoughtful line. Then, with a softness that made her heart ache, he nodded slowly.

"Take all the time you need," he said quietly, his voice steady but full of understanding. "I'm not going anywhere."

His words felt like a balm to the raw nerves that had been exposed, but the guilt didn't ease. She wanted to believe him, wanted to feel the comfort of knowing he wouldn't turn away. But the shame of her secret still hung in the air between them.

She looked at him, her chest tightening with a strange mix of longing and dread. He's so good to me. That thought rang in her head louder than anything else. It would have been easier if he had gotten frustrated, if he had pulled away. But instead, his patience only made her feel more undeserving.

"Lily," Gabriel said again, this time with a soft chuckle as if trying to lift the weight in the room. "It's okay... it's fine. We're fine."

But she wasn't. Not really. And as much as she wanted to believe those words, as much as she wanted them to be fine, she knew things weren't whole—not until she told him the truth. Still, she nodded, trying to smile, trying to keep from crumbling in front of him.

And as he reached for her hand, lacing his fingers gently with hers, all she could think was—He doesn't know. Not yet. And he deserves to.

"Do you want me to take you home?" Gabriel asked.

Lily nodded.

Without saying much, Gabriel pulled back and helped Lily to her feet. He gathered her clutch and her phone before helping her put her heels back on. His fingers remained tangled with hers as they walked out of the hotel room, the silence between them thick but not heavy—just tender, delicate, like a moment waiting to be understood. He didn't press her for answers, didn't demand clarity. He simply stayed close, walking beside her, occasionally brushing his thumb across the back of her hand like he wanted to remind her he was still there.

The drive back was quiet, the city lights flickering outside the windows as they sped down the streets. Lily kept her gaze on the passing blur of buildings and traffic, her thoughts tangled in knots. Gabriel occasionally glanced over at her, trying to read her expression, but he didn't push. He just drove, his hand resting near hers on the console like an unspoken offering of comfort.

When they pulled up outside her parents' townhouse, Gabriel put the car in park but didn't turn off the engine. The quiet hum of the heater filled the space between them.

"I'm sorry," he said softly, breaking the silence. Lily turned to look at him.

He rubbed the back of his neck, his brows drawn together slightly. "If I scared you tonight... with the flowers, the candles, the whole thing—I didn't mean to. I just wanted it to feel special. I didn't want to rush you into anything."

Lily's chest tightened. He looked so sincere, so earnest, and it broke her a little more inside. He thought he'd frightened her with his actions when the truth was so much more complicated.

"You didn't scare me," she said gently, her voice low. "You were... perfect."

Gabriel gave her a small, crooked smile, but his eyes still searched hers, unsure. "Then what was it?"

Lily opened her mouth, her heart aching to say the truth—to tell him everything. But the words caught in her throat.

"I just need a little time," she said quietly.

He nodded, accepting it without protest. "Okay," he said softly. "I'll wait."

Lily held her breath as Gabriel stepped out of the car and walked around to open her door. She quietly followed him up the stairs before he reached for her hand again, giving it a light squeeze.

"Goodnight, baby," he whispered, pressing a kiss to her cheek.

"Good night," Lily whispered back.

How do you think Gabriel will react when Lily tells him the truth? And what's up with Wendy?