The Work Wife

Queso

After I trudge back through the sand, I make my way to the concierge to set up a quick meet-and-greet with Ana, the hotel's event coordinator. She assures me everything will run smoothly, as they have weddings multiple times a week year-round. The Camden wedding doesn't have any insane requests and only has fifty guests to accommodate. Set up should be fairly easy, and we quickly go through the photographer's shot list and seating chart. She promises to have everything set up early so I have plenty of time to do my hair and make-up with the rest of the bridesmaids. They will lead the ceremony, and then I will help run the reception. 

Overall, this wedding is pretty easy; it's watching the groom get married that's hard. I force myself to imagine them as some random couple who hired me when I go through the checklist with Ana because I want to cry a little every time I see Chase Camden written under "Groom."

Once the initial wedding stuff is in order, I make my way back up to my room to change for dinner. After seeing how cute all the girls have presented themselves already, I could put more oomph into my appearance tonight. These girls are hip, with festive clothing and flawless makeup. I should put some effort into classing it up a bit. That and Chase rarely sees me dolled up since I usually keep the makeup minimal and the boobies covered at events. He is very aware of my business casual attire and might be shocked to learn I actually own a pair of stilettos.

I slip into a silky, blue maxi dress that hugs my boobs nicely and manage to do more to my face than swipe on concealer and mascara. I don't have eyelash extensions like the other girls, so it takes a few coats of lash-extending mascara to make mine look full. 

A sweep of bronzer warms up my skin, sparkly shadow adds just enough shimmer to my lids, and a coat of raspberry gloss makes my lips pop with shine.

When I step back from the mirror, I almost don't recognize myself. For once, I look like I could actually blend in with the polished, effortlessly glamorous crowd I'll be joining.

I gather my long hair, twisting it into a thick, tidy braid that falls over one shoulder. With a final glance in the mirror, a small flicker of confidence sparks in me.

Satisfied, I make my way down to the restaurant nestled to the left of the lobby, my dress swishing around my legs as I walk.

I have no idea what to expect when I meet up with the rest of the group. I left them a few hours ago. Maddie could have hooked her claws further into Logan, and I could be the odd man out again. They may have stayed at the beach, or they could have made it back to the pool bar and tossed back drinks all afternoon. They could be dressy dinner guests or drunken, half-naked shit shows.

The host informs me that some of the Camden party is already seated, and when I round the corner, I see Lauren, Alex, Jesse, Callum, and Logan looking sunburned and exhausted around the table. Lauren has a water bottle in her hand and so do Logan and Jesse. Callum and Alex have cocktails—I don't know how they keep going.

Lauren spots me behind the waitress and gives me a warm, friendly smile. I'm pleasantly surprised when Logan scoots the chair out next to him when he sees me.

"Have a seat," Logan offers, and I don't miss his quick run down as I approach him. I don't get that often, so my confidence soars. I'm also happy that he wants me to sit next to him and didn't leave the chair open for another bridesmaid. 

I can tell he's freshly showered because his hair is still wet. He's wearing another linen button-down, and the cream collar pops against his tanned skin.

"You got some sun today," I tell him as I slip into the seat. "How much trouble did you get into after I left?" I look around the table and find Lauren already looking exhausted, dressed up to go to the dance club after this. Her red hair is also back in a braid, and I think it's going to be the hairstyle of the week.