Chapter 3

My parents had paid for the reception. I decided that if Mason insisted on making a public event of this, he'd have to hear my answer publicly.

At the second hotel, I waited in a room off the ballroom.

Another poll appeared.

Paige: I invited some old classmates. Should everybody take a piece of Sophie's dress for luck?

I typed NO. I told Mason to keep them out.

His answer came immediately.

It's just a wedding game. Don't embarrass us.

Four votes for yes.

The door opened. Men I'd known in college crowded inside.

“Mason said it was fine.”

“I said no. Get out.”

One caught the skirt. Another pulled at the lace. I heard fabric tearing and couldn't get away from the hands around me.

When hotel staff finally pushed them back, I was on the floor, clutching my damaged dress closed.

Mason arrived and sighed.

“Why are you crying again?”

Paige reached for me. I pushed her hand away. Her bracelet caught against something, leaving a shallow scratch on her hand.

Mason saw that immediately.

“Apologize. She's trying to help.”

Drew said they'd put real effort into my surprises.

I took a robe from the chair and wrapped it around myself. A staff member asked if I wanted medical help. I said yes, and asked her to call security.

Then I got up.

“You've shown me your surprises,” I told Mason. “Now you can hear mine.”

I walked into the ballroom.

Every conversation stopped.