“Someone’s coming.”
The guys focus in on it, then Gunner takes off my top and tosses it at me. “Sucks to be you, sweets.”
Holden helps me with my top, and then I’m practically tossed to Roman. He swims with me in a lazy circle until I wrap my arms around his shoulders. “I thought we were far enough-”
“Still technically a trail, Bambina.”
I finally hear the giggling and laughter while tugging on Roman’s hair and see none other than Matthew and Bella. I curse against Roman’s neck, and he chuckles. “Upset?”
“Well, we can’t just dart off on the bride and groom,” I grumble.
Roman turns to look at them, and I see Gunner’s face twist in frustration. “Did you tell them where we were going?”
“No. But we did have to check-in before going on the trail.” Roman answers.
Holden climbs out of the water and puts on his prosthetic, making me pout. Roman adjusts me in his arms. “It’s okay. He might be able to … never mind.”
Bella looks right at us, and she smiles a nasty smile, waving at us like she knows just what she did. She cups her hands around her mouth. “How lucky we found you!”
“Sure, luck,” I grumble.
“Be nice.” Roman whispers in my ear. “She’s the bride.”
“A bitchy bride. Not letting anyone else have fun. Making everyone as stressed as her isn’t exactly what this is about.”
“Povera Bambina.” Roman pouts at me sarcastically.
I roll my eyes at him.
“Did you hear me, Sophie?” Bella yells, loud enough for anyone else on the trail to hear her.
“Son of a bitch.” I take a few deep breaths as Roman carries me back towards where our clothes are. Gunner stays in the deeper water. “He didn’t bring a suit, did he?”
“Not today.” Roman agrees. “Bad planning on his part.”
“Very.” I agree.
When we get to shore, Roman hands me a towel, prepared as always. I wipe myself down slowly, being sure not to mess up my suit. “Good to see you, Bella. Enjoying the build-up to your big day?”
“Even more now that your dad is here.” There’s a wicked glint in her eyes.
“Oh, good. It’s about time he and Mom show up.” I smile. “They deserve a vacation after everything they’ve gone through this year.”
Bella’s smile melts. “What?”
“Yeah, after Dad was in the hospital for a bit, he and Mom reconnected. It’s nice having a happy family again.” I keep my smile despite Roman pinching my thigh.
Matthew rubs Bella’s shoulders. “That’s great to hear. Miles deserves to be as happy as we are.”
Bella forces a smile that’s so robotic it’s mildly terrifying. “So true. Just like you and Roman.”
“I know a couple in love when I see one. And you’re so lucky.” She leans closer to me then whispers in my ear. “Other than Matthew, he’s the most well-adjusted.”
I purse my lips and take a slow breath. The first rule of weddings is not to piss off the bride, but it would be so easy to do it and defend my men. I don’t want to go through an obstacle course to avoid offending her.
“All the guys are doing well, but I appreciate your concern. I know you know them better than most. We’re all here to support you and make your big day special.”
Roman softens his hand, stroking across my thigh. That means I wasn’t too catty. Good.