Valentine from a Soldier by Makenna Jameison Read Free Book Online

grin.  “I can’t believe my little sister is really getting married.  Think that’ll be you and me someday?”
    I laughed as I glanced over at him .  “‘You and me’ as in getting married to each other?   Or just getting married in general?”
    Chris laughed, a deep, rich sound, and I wished that I didn’t see him almost as my own big brother.  He was cute, with a friendly personality and steady job , but there never had been any sparks between us, much to Morgan ’s and her parents’ disappointment.  “I meant in general.  But hey, if you’re asking me to marry you, I wouldn’t turn you down.”
    I elbowed him playfully, thinking there was no end to his teasing.  “I better go bring in the gifts soon.”
    “Gifts?”
    “Yeah, Morgan and Josh have presents for all the bridesmaids and groomsmen.”
    “Well, this night is getting better and better.  My little sister is plying us with alcohol, lavishing us with presents— maybe we should get married, so we can have a big party, too .”
    I eyed him curiously, thinking maybe I’d been reading him wrong.  Even if Chris had feelings for me , though, I definitely didn’t return his affection .  “Right,” I said uncertainly , wanting to change the subject.
    “Hey , I’m just kidding,” Chris said, sensing my discomfort.  “I know you’re pining away for that San Francisco guy anyway.”
    “I’m not pining away,” I protested.  “Seriously, is there anyone that Morgan didn’t tell about Ryan ?  Next time I’m keeping my mouth shut.”
    Chris shrugged, giving me a quick grin.  “You never know.  These things have a way of working themselves out.”
    An hour later the bridal party had opened our presents (matching silver necklaces for the bridesmaids and silver-plated cocktail shakers for the groomsmen) , guests were finishing their dessert and after-dinner coffee, and the evening was beginning to wind down.  “Sarah, this dinner was amazing!” Morgan said, throwing her arms around me in a huge hug.
    “Well, it’s no bachelorette party, but I’m glad that I at least got to celebrate with you at the rehearsal dinner.”
    “Seriously, you’ve done an awesome job with everything.  Thank you so much!”
    She squeezed m y arm as she bounced up and down with joy, and I couldn’t remember the last time I’d see her so happy.  “And just wait for tomorrow,” I said.  “The best is still yet to come!”
    “All right, my bride-to-be,” Josh interrupted , wrapping his arms around Morgan.   “Is this the part where I say that I’ll see you at the altar?”
    “I’m afraid so.  I need to get my beauty sleep and then spend all morning getting ready!”
    “This is one of those times I’m glad it’s easier being a guy.  I plan to shower, shave, and throw on my tux.  Done,” he said with a grin.
    “Just remember that the next time you’re complaining about how long it takes me to get ready.  Men have it easier.”
    “Isn’t that the truth,” I chimed in.
    “Will do,” Josh said good-naturedly.
    “ I’ll see you tomorrow, honey,” Morgan said, twisting around in Josh’s arms to give him a tender kiss goodbye .
    “I still don’t understand why you can’t stay at your condo tonight,” Chris said , confused.  “You guys live together!”
    “It’s tradition,” I said with a shrug.
    “It would be bad luck for Josh to see me tomorrow morning .  He knows that!”
    Josh gave Chris a look that seemed to say, I know this is crazy, but what can I do?
    “So, what, is Sarah staying with you in the bridal suite tonight?” Chris asked.
    “No, silly.   I’m staying in her room.  T omorrow all the girls will get ready together in my suite, but only Josh and I will be staying there.”
    “I sure hope so,” Josh said, wrapping his arms around Morgan’s waist again to pull her close .
    “This is why I’m coordinating the wedding and not you,” I teased Chris.   “You have to understand all the finite