Whiskey Wedding (Tasting Nashville series Book 3) Read Online Free PDF Page B

take you up there.”
    “And what’s supposed to happen here? I just leave you behind to deal with the shit?”
    Judy smiles. “Don’t worry about me, honey. I’ll be fine and I’m happy to take care of everything on this end.”
    My insides somersault. At least I know he’s safe. Well, that is until I see him. I’m liable to knock his head off his shoulders for putting me through this.
    “Well, I guess we better hit the road then.”
     
    *
     
    I was silent on the way to Nashville. Not that it would have done any good to try to get information from Rick. The man was in the military and still lives by some kind of code. It was impressive until it was irritating.
    “Anything I should know before we get there?” I ask.
    “Not that I’m aware of ma’am.”
    “Why are we going so slow?” I swear it feels like we’re running at a snail’s pace.
    “Just a lot of cops on the road this weekend. Not taking any chances.”
    I nod, accepting that was the most I was going to get out of Rick.
    My heart races as we get closer. I hate the way my chest is tightening, almost caving in, leaving me struggling for air. I spot the Jeep first.
    “Clive’s here?”
    “I don’t know ma’am.”
    I search the lot. I don’t see Dean’s truck anywhere. “Are you sure this is what Dean asked you to do? You talked to him personally?”
    “Yes ma’am. He’s inside waiting to talk to you.”
    Rick hops out and makes his way around to my side, opening my door like the gentleman that he is.
    He offers his arm, and I loop mine through his. I notice the board over the front door where glass had been. My nerves are shooting off like fireworks. Rick holds the door open. When I walk in, my knees go weak, leaving Rick attempting to hold me steady.
    I can see to the far end of the room, toward the stage.
    Mel wears a tuxedo, to the best of his ability. I see Clive in a suit and bolo tie with his jeans.
    I jump as hands caress my shoulders. I turn to find Dean wearing his tuxedo, the one we had picked out. He looks at me with tears in his eyes.
    He mouths the words, “I’m so sorry” before dropping to one knee.
    My heart is in my throat.
    “Joselyn, you are my entire life, with or without a piece of paper. But this wedding is important, to both of us. I am so sorry for nearly fucking it all up. I’m sorry for causing you pain and heartache. I’m sorry for causing you tears and confusion. You deserve so much more than I can ever offer. But, please, please,” his voice cracks. “Please do me the honor of marrying me, right here where we met.”
    I look around. The place is empty. I hadn’t noticed, but even Rick is wearing a sports coat.
    “I don’t have anything here. I’m not ready.”
    “Sure ya are.” Judy comes from around the corner holding my dress, covered in plastic of course so Dean can’t see it.
    “What about the people at the house?”
    “There’s beer and food with a note that says, ‘Off to get hitched. We’ll be back soon to get quenched’.”
    I laugh. The woman thinks of everything.
    “Yep, Mel’s here to give you away and perform the ceremony. Rick’s my best man, and Clive’s gonna sing. Judy’s your matron of honor. We’re all set, sugar. Just say yes.”
    My hands flew to my mouth, “Oh, yes!”
    Dean picks me up and swings me in circles while planting kisses all over my face. Something he always did when I cried, to kiss away the tears.
    Judy steps in, separating us. “Come on, doll. We’ve got a little work to do.”
    We disappear into the small bathroom. The same bathroom where I used to take sink baths while living out of my car. Now, I’m a bride preparing for my wedding. Surreal.
    “I’ve got your makeup, lingerie, dress, and shoes. Shouldn’t take but a second.”
    I glance around. “Flowers?”
    Judy winks. “They’re being carried in from the car at this very moment.”
    Moisture rushes my eyes.
    “No ma’am. None of that. This is a good thing. You’re like a daughter