Every Girl Wants A Moon

Chapter 17: Old Flames

The evening air was cool and crisp as Chase and I wandered through the city streets, taking in the sights and sounds before the rehearsal dinner. The city had a charm about it, with its twinkling lights and the hum of conversation spilling out from cafés and boutiques. It was a quiet kind of energy, the kind that made everything feel alive yet peaceful. I could feel the anticipation of the night ahead, but for now, it was just us—together, exploring the world around us.

Chase had taken my hand the moment we stepped outside the hotel, his fingers warm against mine. We strolled down cobblestone streets, passing by small art galleries and hidden alleyways that seemed to whisper stories of the city's history. I marveled at the little details—how the streetlights cast a soft glow against the buildings, how the scent of fresh bread wafted from a bakery nearby, how the soft murmur of voices added a sense of familiarity to a place I had never been before.

Chase led me to a small park near a fountain, where we stopped to take in the view of the skyline. It was beautiful, the city stretching out before us like a canvas of possibility. I could feel the weight of the weekend ahead, but for now, I was content. No expectations, no pressure—just a quiet moment with him, surrounded by the buzz of the world.

"This place is amazing," I said, looking around in awe. "How do you always find these spots?"

He smiled, his eyes glinting with a playful spark. "I've been here a few times. I know where the best places are." His voice softened. "But it's better when I'm here with you."

My heart fluttered at his words, and I smiled, feeling the warmth of his affection settle around me like a blanket. It felt so natural to be here with him—like I had always belonged in this moment.

We continued to wander through the park, enjoying the evening as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the city in a soft, golden light. But eventually, it was time to head back to the hotel for the rehearsal dinner. My nerves started to stir as the reality of meeting his extended family set in. I wasn't sure why it felt so important to me—it wasn't like I had any idea what I was supposed to expect. But the thought of meeting all of them, especially under the looming shadow of the wedding, was a little daunting.

⸻

The rehearsal dinner was held in an elegant ballroom, filled with laughter and chatter as friends and family gathered together to celebrate Amanda and her soon-to-be husband. The room was grand, with crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and long tables draped with white linen. Soft music played in the background, adding to the sophisticated atmosphere.

Chase had reassured me earlier that his family was warm and welcoming, but it was hard not to feel the nerves tightening in my stomach. I was acutely aware of every little detail—my dress, my hair, the slight tremble in my hands. I had never been in this kind of environment before, and the idea of being scrutinized felt foreign.

As we walked into the ballroom, Chase's hand rested reassuringly on my back, guiding me through the crowd. His presence was a constant comfort, but the closer we got to the long tables where his family sat, the more my heart began to race.

"Don't worry," he murmured, leaning down so his words were just for me. "They're going to love you, I promise."

I smiled weakly, trying to believe him. "I hope so."

We moved through the room, exchanging greetings with his uncles, aunts, cousins, and other extended family members. Each one greeted me with warm smiles and polite questions. Most were curious about my life and how Chase and I had met, and though I tried to seem at ease, I couldn't help but feel out of place. Still, I held my own, trying to focus on the positive.