The Texan's Contract Marriage - By Sara Orwig Page 0,33

watching Ashley walk up the aisle.

“This isn’t what we’d hoped for you when Mom and I talked about all of you growing up and marrying, but if you’re all right with it, we will be, too. As long as you’re sure you’re not doing it for the money.”

“Absolutely not. The money is a plus, but I’ve tried to keep that from influencing my decision. This is about Noah.”

“I hope you mean that. Camille, if this marriage doesn’t work, then get out of it,” Anthony Avanole said solemnly. “You’ll have enough money to invest it and never touch it. Use the interest from it and what you have if the amount grows. It’ll be there to give back to Marek if you need to.”

“I know, Dad,” she said, looking at the tall, handsome man who stood waiting at the altar and within moments would be her husband. “Marek and I think this marriage will work. Time and again, I’ve been over all the reasons.”

“The money is a blessing for you and for all of us. It will change our lives, but I don’t want it at the cost of your happiness.”

She shook her head. “It won’t be. I won’t stay in the relationship if it’s unhappy or not the best for Noah, for all of us.” The marriage still dazed her as much as the ring on her finger. She glanced down at her hand as she held the large bouquet of white orchids, lilies and white roses. Her eight-carat diamond with sapphires and diamonds along the gold band sparkled on her finger. The contradictions in her wedding were as numerous as in Marek’s personality. A small wedding, an enormous bouquet and a huge, dazzling diamond. A honeymoon for two people who were almost strangers. She looked again at Marek, feeling her pulse racing. Jess was best man because Pete Rangel, Marek’s father, had asked Marek to let someone stand in for him because of his crutches. His dad had been happy that Marek had asked him, even when he could not accept.

When Camille had asked Marek about it earlier, he had made it clear to her that he was happy to have Jess as his best man.

“It’s time,” the wedding planner said, and Camille and her dad started the walk up the aisle. As she neared Marek, she saw the somber look on his face, a look she recognized. He was fighting his emotions, and she could imagine he was thinking about his fiancée and the wedding he had expected to have.

She hurt for him, wishing she could erase his ache, knowing no one could. He stepped to her side to take her hand, his dark eyes unreadable. He smiled, but it was perfunctory.

She went through the ceremony, repeating her vows, too aware she was taking an enormous risk as well as aware of Marek’s pain.

The moment the minister said, “You may kiss the bride,” warmth returned to Marek’s eyes as he focused on her. His kiss was light, but the look he gave her was reassuring.

When they turned to face the guests and their minister introduced them as Mr. and Mrs. Marek Rangel, her parents smiled at her and her mother dabbed her eyes. Marek’s parents smiled, even though Marek’s mother also had tears.

Marek took her arm to walk up the aisle, and she smiled with relief that the ceremony had ended.

They had pictures with both of their families. Even though it was a small wedding, there were more guests than she had originally thought they would have. They constantly talked to guests, and it wasn’t until Marek began the first dance with her that she was alone with him. He held her lightly, smiling at her, but it was a strained smile. A muscle worked in his jaw and she hurt for him, certain he was thinking of his fiancée.

“You look beautiful today,” he said. His voice sounded labored, and she would be thankful when the reception was over and they could get away.

“Thank you. You look handsome, and your pain doesn’t show very much,” she said, wishing she could do something to help him.

“I’m all right.” He glanced beyond her, looking around the large ballroom. “Our security is tight and I don’t think there are any unwanted people looking for pictures or a story.”

“The security is the best ever.”

“You’re as calm as a summer morning. But then you’re accustomed to going on stage and hiding what you feel.”

“I’ve made my decision, and I’m hoping for the best.