Love Me in the Dark

KREW

Three months later…

I kept my astonished gaze train on her as she watched the bride and groom exchange their vows. Three months felt like it was just yesterday when we were back together and lived under the same roof. When people thought that our lives were perfect, it was indeed. It was not about no fights, no arguments, or we didn’t have problems, it was how we faced and valued lives and time.

She clapped, looked in my direction, and smiled when the couple kissed. Journey and August looked great, but the love of my life had never ceased to amaze me with her lemon-y gown.

At the ballroom hall of the Selik building for the reception, I kept a low profile. I just kept an eye on my woman. They gave speeches, including my sister. She happened to be one of the bridesmaids. Had I imagined myself to be in August’s position someday? My answer was yes. Many times. I loved River with my cells and soul. I always wanted to have a family on my own. Having River in my life was the happiest. I couldn’t think of anything other than to proudly call her my wife.

“Shut that grin off your face. You look like an idiot.”

“Any luck of finding a woman to bang tonight?” I didn’t bother looking at my brother, occupying the seat that was supposed to be for River.

“That’s the thing I don’t do. Not at the wedding receptions?”

“Why not?”

“Because there’s this thing that most people who met at weddings ended up together.”

My brow arched. I finally faced Kai. “And how is it a bad thing? And you believe in that crap?”

Kai shrugged. “I’m a businessman—”

“I know, Kai. Believe me. But you need to get a life out of the business world. You can’t be alone forever.”

“I get it, man. You’re happy, and River is lovely. She loves you. And I’m happy for you. Truly.” There he went again. Kai was gone.

“Good evening, everyone. I’m River. Please, a round of applause for the first dance of the newlyweds as husband and wife.” The music played. I knew what song she was going to sing because she practiced it in her studio. It was an original soundtrack of a box-office movie.

Her vlog had reached 700k subs. The first original song she uploaded has reached one million views in less than a week. I was so proud of my woman.

The couple walked into the center and started their first dance together. I wished I could dance with River, but being the entertainer of tonight, it would be impossible. I winked when she met my gaze. Her smile widened.

River became my center and my light.

***

As soon as the newlyweds left for their honeymoon, River and I went to our waiting car. We also had a flight to catch for our first vacation.

We met Brad in the parking area. Brad and River became closer, and it was heartwarming to see both of them spending time together sharing the same passion. Brad played guitar on one of River’s covers. The fans went crazy when River introduced him to who Brad was.

anything, call Everest or Conner. He won’t be going with us.

think about me. I know River is looking forward to this trip.

him on the cheek. “Take care, Dad. Call

“Go. You need

my arm.

and happiness in his

don’t have to tell

My daughter loves you, and you become the center of her world. As much as it pains me to admit that she has another man in her life now, but I can see how much you care for her, and I know you how much

“That’s not true.

started playing and singing because of you. She’s happy because of you. And I know she’s

not getting married

advance because there’s no reason

That

I joined River in the limousine, she eyed me

“Nosy?”

don’t keep secret from you even the

you? He’s just trying

sat straight, still wearing the yellow gown. When I met her gaze, she widened her eyes.

“You’re beautiful.”

“And?”

“A ripe pineapple.”

burst into laughter as the limousine pulled out of the parking area toward

sweeter when I take this

fixed my seat and thought of something horrible like that last horror movie we watched together on Netflix. It

a selfie, showing the Selik private jet. I knew she had been looking forward to seeing this jet, and as an amazing boyfriend, I wanted to see those big eyes astonished

know what

“Champagne?”

but let me out of this pineapple dress. I’ll be right back.

 smartwatch.”

girl. I don’t know, I just feel

idiot. You don’t have to

sound like a

my suit jacket, uncuffed the links, and rolled the sleeves up to my

at many

shiver. “Put some clothes on before I spread you wide and use one of my many talents right here right now.” I walked out of the suite before I changed my mind

peeped her