“To the newlyweds!” He continued to watch her as she took a drink from her glass and sat back down, most likely glad to be done with her speech.
“Well wasn’t that just peachy. There wasn’t a dry eye in the place.” An elbow found its way to his ribs with his comment.
“I thought I saw you tear up, you always were a softie. That hard military exterior of yours is such a cover-up.” Their eyes met and Anson had to force himself to look away. She was just too damn beautiful and had always been a little too easy on the eyes, in his opinion.
“Mmm yes, I am a romantic at heart.” He clutched his chest in mock gesture then grabbed one of her hands. “Please do me the honor of this dance, my lady.”
“Oh! Of course, Captain! Could I ever say no to you?” They bounded towards the dance floor with perhaps, a little too much playful enthusiasm. Twinkling lights strung above them basked them in soft, white light as Anson found her waist and pulled her to him, joining many other couples with the same idea. She felt so right in his arms. Her skin warm, glowing with his touch, her breath lingering on his neck sent a thrilling sensation down his body. Maybe he was holding her a little too closely, he thought. Maybe, but everything felt right with her in his arms.
“I wonder what happened to him.” Kate’s words broke the spell, and his grip on her waist briefly tightened then loosened, opening the distance between them to look at her. “I thought you had forgotten about him.” His face was serious, losing all playfulness as he looked down at her.
“Just about impossible after his appearance today.”
“Never impossible, Kate.” His reply was only a soft whisper as he drew her closer to him again, locking their eyes momentarily.
They continued to sway to the music of the cover band as a version of Rascal Flatt’s “I Melt” filled the tent. Kate’s head went to Anson’s shoulder again, savoring the sense of security she felt in his arms, banishing thoughts from her mind about Noah. Warmth crept across her body as she felt his hands move lower on her back, bringing her even closer. She lifted her head to say something but was speechless as she caught his gaze. There was something there in his eyes…something she had never noticed before. She stopped dancing, feeling suddenly light headed.
“Are you okay?” His arms were still around her, locking her to him. “I don’t know…I think it’s just the heat and everything I’ve had to drink. I’m going outside for some fresh air.” She walked away at a faster pace than she had meant to, determined to clear her head.
Anson got the hint that she wanted to be alone and let her go. Being that close to her for as long as they had danced had made his body pulse with desire. Thankful for a moment to himself, he ran a hand through his short jet-black hair and loosened his tie and collar as he headed for the bar. It was past time for another drink.
“There you are! Enjoying this extravagant wedding that Kristina dreamed up?” Ben’s hand slapped Anson hard on the back, making him turn around to find a glowing newlywed.
“Well aren’t you all smiles, brother. I think married life is going to suit you a little too well.” He smiled, leaning back casually with his elbows resting on the bar.
“Yeah, I think so too. I’m just ready to get out of here now and head off to Hawaii.” He winked and the brothers exchanged knowing looks. “This place is a mad house but thankfully, the wedding went off without a hitch.”
They both grabbed their drinks and went to an opening in the tent to get a little fresh air while continuing their conversation. Anson scanned the lawn for Kate.
“You leave again Thursday, right? What do you and Kate have planned? I’m sure it’s something adventurous.” Anson laughed at his statement. “Sure do, you know us too well. We are going to do a little kayaking and camping Tuesday and Wednesday. Tomorrow I’m meeting up with some old ROTC guys up by Boulder.” Words were coming out of his mouth but his mind was somewhere else, still looking outside for Kate. That’s when he finally spotted her. But she wasn’t alone.
“So when are you going to tell her how you feel?” Ben’s question was barely audible to him. “What?”
“When are you going to tell her you love her?” Anson heard him this time and he turned to look at him directly. Raw emotion was written all over his face. “Words like that should never be left unspoken.”
“I…” No words came out in protest but instead, Ben cleared the air. “I better get back to Kristina.”
Anson shook his head in agreement and also took his leave, heading in the direction of Kate and the illustrious, Noah Parker.
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