Because (Seven Year Itch #4)(53)

She’s rendered me speechless. I’m afraid to comment, because it will never be good enough. This exquisite woman that stands before me not only holds my heart, but now a part of my soul. I didn’t think it was possible to feel this way. For years she begged me for this reaction. I’ve made many mistakes, but none are greater than looking back and knowing I never made her feel like she was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever laid eyes on.

There’s a difference between love and infatuation. Even lust has it’s way of ripping holes in an innocent heart. There used to be only one kind of love I was able to give. Now it’s painstaking and settled. It’s determined and powerful. It’s eternal. From the deepest parts of me I can feel it radiating as she steps closer.

Ab runs up and I whisk her into my arms kissing her on the cheek. “Look at you. You’re so pretty.”

“Did you see Mom?”

I sit her down and stare at my wife.

“Well,” she starts. “How do I look?”

“Breathtaking.” I take her hand and lift it to my lips. “I’m in awe of you, Shayla Vincent.”

She’s blushing and turns her head to the side. “It’s not too much?”

I’m shaking my head, unable to speak.

“Seriously, Bran. I wasn’t sure about the dress.”

“If it makes you feel better you can take it off and ask my opinion again.”

She slaps me casually on the chest. “Keep dreaming, Mr. Vincent.”

“Speaking of which. How am I to introduce you tonight? I mean, we share the same name. Someone is going to ask, especially with you looking the way you do.”

“Technically we’re still married.” She shrugs. “Say whatever you want.”

I offer my arm on either side to both of my girls. “Please allow me to escort the two of you to your seats.”



I’m proud as we make our way inside the chapel. I feel like all eyes are on us, even though I know this isn’t our moment. I see my parents noticing the girls have arrived. They stand up to make room for them. Aberdeen runs in between the pews and hugs my mom, while Shayla stops and turns her attention to me. “Thanks for walking with me. I was afraid I’d trip in these heels.”

I lean my head in to speak quiet enough only she can hear. “I know someone who gives good foot rubs.”

She pulls away with a smile. “Behave.”

I wink. “Never.”



Weddings for men are different from women. While females get emotional, us men hold in our feelings and look forward to the reception. Until this very moment I never saw this as anymore than a show for loved ones and friends.

When the pastor begins to address the vows something inside of me happens. I’m overwhelmed with feelings. My mind travels back to my own wedding and the promises I made to Shayla. I didn’t keep most of them. I took her for granted and ignored her when I should have been there. I was selfish and distant. I wouldn’t allow her to be my friend, because I felt as if she was trying to take everything from me.

I finally realize how important these vows are. I understand the words and the promises. They mean something to me. I turn my attention to Shayla and Aberdeen. They’re both looking in my direction.

Shayla’s eyes tell me the vows are tearing at her heartstrings. We stare at each other as Toby and Cara recite the words. When it comes to the end I mouth the words ‘I love you’ to her. She doesn’t turn away, but she also doesn’t offer me the same gesture in return. She’s taking it in and digesting what it means; perhaps if it’s real.

I’m eager for the service to finish so I can spend time with Shay. I know I have responsibilities at the reception, but they won’t last the whole time.

The happy couple seals their commitment with a kiss and finally it’s time for me to be able to get close to her again. I feel like a teenager eager for that first kiss. I walk with my designated person to the back of the church and stand to wait for my girls to join me. That’s what they are. My girls.

People take their time congratulating the couple before leaving the church to head to the reception. I know we’ll have to stay for pictures, but since Shayla is going to be my ride she has to stay too.

When I see her walking out with my parents I rush to help her down the stairs in her heels. She seems pleased, as if she feared she was going to plummet to the ground in front of the entire congregation of people. “I’ve got you.”

“Do I look that terrified?”

“No. I guess I recognize that face on you.”

“I’m glad you did.”

“Have I told you how gorgeous you look? I can’t get enough of you.” I reach up and run my hand over a strand of her hair. She’s dyed it back to brown; back to the way she wore it before. “What made you change the color?”

She sort of pulls away, but not totally. “Why? You hate it don’t you?”

“Not at all. It’s you. I prefer it this color.”

“I thought you prefer blondes.”

“Obviously you don’t know everything about me, babe.”

After the photos are taken, we hop in the car and arrive at the reception. I leave Shayla and Aberdeen with my parents and take my seat at the head table. While the announcements are taking place my gaze is fixed on hers. She tries to play it off like she isn’t staring back at me, but I know her all too well to take it as anything but the truth. Shayla is honest to a fault. She’s innocent, and it’s another reason I want to keep her all to myself.