Someone Like You

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Brea

My fingers dance restlessly on my thighs, nerves bubbling in my stomach.

I've given myself several mental pep talks this morning as I got ready. Zander's hand moves to my knee, resting heavily on it. I didn't realise it was bouncing until he stopped it. When I look up, his eyes are coated with warmth and encouragement as he gazes at me. My shoulders instantly relax. He seems to have a soothing effect on me.

"You can do this, Angel." Zander murmurs softly, and a slight shiver rolls through at his deep, raspy voice. Ever since we slept together, my feelings for him have only heightened, which I didn't think was possible at this point.

Placing my hand over his, I give it a gentle squeeze.

"I am so thankful you are here."

When he smiles, handsome smile lines appear around the curve of his lips. He should definitely smile more often. It suits him.

The Uber rolls to a stop out the front of a tall, picturesque building that looks like it would cost half my year's salary, if I was hosting my own wedding here. Water fountains are placed elegantly down the path, with gorgeous, white lilies bordering them. It looks like something you would see in the front few pages of a magazine, gossiping about what the latest 'hot spots' are. As much as I hate to admit it, it truly is beautiful.

Exhaling, I step out of the car, holding my dress up so that I don't step on the silk. Heads swivel in our direction as Zander rounds the car, appearing by my side. The warmth of his skin seeps through the thin material of my dress as he lightly presses his hand against the small of my back.

Shock registers on the familiar faces. My friends. Ex-friends.

Zander's hand presses harder into my back, lending me comfort as we walk down the path. Swallowing, I resist the urge to duck my chin and hold my head high, ignoring the stares.

With my new dark hair, and the fiery red dress that fits my body like second skin, I certainly am making a bold statement. The kind of statement that the wedding invite specifically asked us not to do. A part of me feels guilt for stooping low and wearing something like this, knowing it will upset Olivia to the point of us never speaking again after this event, but the other part of me is revelling in the sweet taste of revenge. I've also reached a point that I don't particularly care if I ever speak or see her again after hearing what she has done to me, and how she has treated me and our friendship.

A genuine smile stretches over my face when Gianna strolls down the steps, emptying her champagne glass down her throat with significant speed. She beams when her eyes land on me, and we rush toward each other. The air knocks from my lungs as her long arms tighten around me. I hug her just as hard back, enjoying the feel of holding my best friend once more.

"Thank God you are here," Gianna mutters, stepping back, her grin from ear to ear. "You look fucking sinful, and I am here for it." Turning, her broad smile impossibly brightens as she eyes Zander up and down appreciatively. "And hello to you, tall, dark, and handsome."

Zander chuckles, glancing at me. "Gianna, I presume?"

"I'm sure you've heard everything about me, and I'm here to tell you it's all true," she winks, and Zander's lips twitch, amusement dancing in his eyes. "Now, let's get a drink." Stepping to my side, wrapping an arm around my waist, she pulls me close. "The first of many."