Chapter 21: Chapter 21

The day after Madelyn announced they're moving up the wedding date. Isabella was sitting in an upscale bridal boutique as Madelyn and Ethan find one last minute outfits.

“Why are we here again?” Liam asked her. Isabella shrugged her shoulders. “I was invited.” She answered. And hopefully find a moment alone to talk to Ethan, since they haven't spoken since the previous night. “But I don’t know why you're here.” She took a glimpse at Liam, releazing she haven't been seeing him lately.

“Aw, don't pretend like you're not glad to see me.” Liam teased, making her to roll her eye. “Liam, you're right, I am glad to see you. I've barely seen you since we arrived. I've missed you.” She gave him a tight lip smile as if she meant it. “Wow, look at Ethan.” Liam stated as Ethan walked out of the dressing room.

Isabella gave him a smile that never reached her heart. “You look enticing. You'll be the best dressed groom ever.” Liam scoffed. “That’s cause I haven't got my shot yet.”

Ethan grinned from ear to ear. “Thank you. And I think I'm all set then.” Ethan clears his throat and looks at Isabella. “Hey Isabella, can you--” Madelyn emerges from the back room with a grin. “Great news everyone! John Copping would be thrilled to rush my veil and--” she pauses, gazing at Ethan. “My love! I'm not supposed to see you until the big day! It’s a bad luck.”

“Right, right, sorry I'll go change.” He rushes towards the dressing room. “And stay back there until you're told to come out, okay? I'm going to try on my dress next!” Ethan gives Isabella a long look before disappearing into his dressing room again.

She wished they could get the chance to talk previous night. Or this morning, or anytime. She needed to know what moving up the wedding means for the two of them.

Once the coast was clear, Madelyn follows Ethan into the dressing room area. A few minutes later, she returns, grinning from ear to ear as she pulled her hair back into a chic bun and shows off her dress. “Well? Don’t you just love it?” She did a little twirl, the sheer layers of the dress spinning around her.

“I think you already know how I feel, Madelyn.” Liam commented. He gives her a chef’s kiss and she beams. “Well? Isabella, any shade to throw, or have I finally stunned you into silence?” Isabella shrugs and spoke nonchalantly. “You look fine. It’s a nice dress, and you look like you always do.”

“Hm! That’s not exactly the reaction I was hoping for, but I agree, the dress is nice.” Madelyn stands in front of the mirrored wall, and Isabella looked away, trying to ignore the pang in her heart.

Liam heads out to answer a phone call while Madelyn sauntered into the dressing room to change. Isabella look around the empty room. Her eyes drifts to the other dressing room door, where she knew Ethan was still chasing out of his clothes.

She heaved a long sigh as she thought of sneaking into the dressing room to talk to Ethan while he changes.

She took a deep breath, then slip into Ethan’s dressing room.

“Isabella? What're you doing in here?” He raises his eyebrows when she locked the dressing room door behind her. “We need to talk, and we haven't been able to find a moment alone, so I just thought...” She forced her eyes away from his sculpted body and took a seat on the bench along the side wall. “I get it and I'm glad you're here.” He took a sit next to her and waits for her to gather her thoughts.

“So... three weeks until you're married, huh? Or I guess three weeks minus one day now...” He exhaled sharply, his heart feeling heavy the more he looked at her. “I'm sorry we ambushed you like that. Madelyn thought it’s be fun to surprise our parents with the news.”

“I keep reminding myself that you were always getting married, and even though we never really talked about what we’d do then.” Her eyes welled up, but that wasn't the right time to tear up. “I know, Isabella. It feels like our time is being cut short.” She finally looked over at him, catching his eyes. “I'm sorry. This is harder than I though it’d be.” She swallows back the tears trying to keep her composure.

Ethan reaches out to cut her cheeks. “You have nothing to apologize for. I am the one who's sorry. I'm selfish. And eventually, you are gonna get sick of my bullshit and leave, and I'll have to let you walk away.” He had managed to keep buried deep inside. “Then I’ll only see you when i can’t help but look up your social media, and someday there'll be pictures of your wedding day on there.” He drifts closer with each word. “A wedding I wasn't invited to. To some man I've never met. One I'm sure isn't good enough for you... but is infinitely better than me.” Unhappy lines on his face ether deeply. “Hey... don’t say that. There’s no man for me after you. I'm just gonna focus on my career.”

“Then maybe I'll run into you at a conversation someday. We’d go to the hotel bar, for old times’ sake. Talk about our families, our jobs. Try to keep it professional.” Isabella curved her lips upwards. “Because that always works so well for us. I bet we’d end up fumbling for our room keys while we make out in the hallway.” He couldn't help but chuckle. “I like this version of the future. The one where we end up together, no matter what.” He leans in, brushing his lips softly against hers. Her heart flutters. “I know I'm being greedy. Reckless. Insatiable.” His lips ghost against hers again, leaving her breathless.

“At least we had a few weeks of bliss. I wouldn't trade them for anything.” Her voice cracks as she trip over the realisation that her flirtations have always been doomed. Ethan lifts her chin, so his eyes blazes into hers. “It’s not over, Isabella.” She gave him a half smile. “You’re right. We’d better make our last few days together count.”

He thread his fingers into her hair, pulling her into a fierce kiss that deepens when she gasps. “We should... Madelyn...” But even as she tried to remind herself that she's in a bridal fitting room, with Ethan’s fiancee just down the hall, she finds herself pulling him closer. “Tell me to stop, and I will.” She shook her head, wrapping her arms around his neck. “I never said you should.”

She melts in his arms, her arms guiding him closer so she could draw his body flush against hers.

She sucked at his tongue and run one hands down his body, exploring very thoroughly/ when she finds what she was looking for, she lets her hand wrap around his hardness and give it a playful squeeze. “Isabella... please...” His hips buck up, seeking the friction of her touch. She was tempted, but she reminds herself of her plan. She stroked him as he put all of her passion into her kiss, then she abruptly tear herself away. “Wha- Isabella?”

She smirks as she dance out of his reach. She glance over her shoulder, where she has left Ethan sitting on the bench, hard as a rock for her. “We have to be good, remember?” She teased, giving him a playful smirk. He reached to grab her hand.

“How’s everyone doing in there?” The two of them freeze at the knock on the door.

“Good! Just... finishing up.” Ethan retorted as Isabella giggled softly but only Ethan could hear it. He flashes her a rueful smile as he reaches his clothes. “I guess that’s their not-so-subtle way of kicking us out for their next appointment.”

“It’s probably for the best. We’re lucky we weren't interrupted sooner.”

“Maybe we’ll have to continue this later.” He winks at her. Isabella smoothes her down. “You wish,” she teased, beaming at him. “You're right about that.” He finishes getting dressed but pulls her into one last lingering kiss before she left.

They carefully slipped out of the dressing room one at a time. “Looks like the coast is clear.” His phone buzzes in his pocket, and he glances at the message. “Madelyn says she needs some adjustment to her dress, so she's downstairs getting it fitted.” Isabella nods and look around the store, taking in all the racks of lace and chiffon.

A bridal associate walked up to them. “Hey, do you two need any help?” She asked politely. “No, thank you. We’re just browsing.” Said Ethan. The bridal associate looks between Isabella and Ethan, grinning. “Bringing the future husband with you to buy your dress? Not many brides are as modern as you.” She commented, adoring the two of them. She thought they were together.

“Oh, we’re not a couple.” Isabella set things straight. The lady gave her a skeptical look, then leans in so only Isabella could hear. “If you, uh... change your mind, then you should check out our displays in the back. That's where we keep the best stuff.” She winks afterwards. Isabella nods, her mouth agape. “O...okay I'll keep that in mind.”

Ethan gives her an amused smiled after the bridal associate leaves to help another bride. “What was that about?” Isabella raised her shoulders. “I don’t know, but she seems to think we need to check this stuff out.” She runs her hands over an off-white lace gown, trying her best not to picture wearing a wedding dress for Ethan. “You'd look beautiful in that.” He commented. “Ethan, I wish we were shopping together right now. Maybe then we could pursue the ‘wedding night’ section.” She gestures towards the lacy lingerie in display in the back of the store.

“Is that... a paddle with the word ‘mine’ engraved on it? I had no idea there was so much wedding themed... paraphernalia in the world.”

She cocks an eyebrow at him and lift a red with black lace lingerie set from the closest rack. “I bet we could make pretty good use of this stuff together.” Ethan closes his eyes and swallows hard. She smirks when he finally looks at her again. “Isabella, it’s not nice to tease. You know this will just be another weight for my imagination to carry, huh?” She chuckled softly. “You and me both.” She puts the lingerie back and glance at Ethan.

The two of them share mischievous smile, and for a moment, she forgets about everything else.

That evening. Isabella made popcorn and look for a move to pass the time. “Seen it... seen it... aha! Nothing like drowning my sorrows in latest Zac Efron flick.” She mouthed to herself. “Mind if I join you?” She looks up and fins Ethan leaning against the doorway. “No, bur I should warn you, my main goal tonight is to see a hot guy shirtless.” She teased him. “I think I can handle that.”

She starts the movie, then settle on the couch next to Ethan. They were few inches away from each other, but she draws closer and loser as the movie plays. “Ethan...” She whispered to him. They lock eyes and Ethan extends one finger to skate along her jaw.

She lean forward just enough to close the gap, sighing contentedly as their lips finally touched. He coaxes her mouth open just enough to let his tongue slip inside, his hands coming up to cup he cheeks.

Her heart beats faster as her hand shakes down between his legs. “What're you thinking about that’s got you so real for me?” She asked in a low voice. “You in that lingerie from the store...”

Just them, they hear key in the front door. The two of them spring apart. Madelyn’s brother appears. “Hey, party people. Don’t mind me, I just came to grab the lambo from the garbage.”

Isabella grunted softly, almost forgetting that was Madelyn's family house. “Oh sweet, I've been wanting to watch this movie.” He settles onto the couch between them, digging his hand into the bowl of popcorn. She catches Ethan’s eyes over his head. So much for their alone time.

Eventually the movie draws her in, she was able to ignore the ‘what ifs’ floating around her head.

Early the next morning. Isabella pours herself a cup of coffee and make it outside, hoping to have a minute alone with her thoughts. “Good morning, Isabella. Sleep well?” She stop short at the sight of Madelyn already on the patio, piles of paperwork in front of her, she clearly had an early start to her day. That’s if she ever went to bed. “Madelyn, you scared me!”

“Seriously, you need to stop being surprised when you see me in my own home.” She rolled her eyes and turned away. “Right. Sorry.” She waves away Isabella’s apology as if it means nothing.

“I was hoping to run into you this morning. Turns out, my best friends won't be able to make the wedding on such short notice, thanks to her honeymoon and all. So I was wondering... will you be my maid of honour?”

The day after Madelyn announced they're moving up the wedding date. Isabella was sitting in an upscale bridal boutique as Madelyn and Ethan find one last minute outfits.

“Why are we here again?” Liam asked her. Isabella shrugged her shoulders. “I was invited.” She answered. And hopefully find a moment alone to talk to Ethan, since they haven't spoken since the previous night. “But I don’t know why you're here.” She took a glimpse at Liam, releazing she haven't been seeing him lately.

“Aw, don't pretend like you're not glad to see me.” Liam teased, making her to roll her eye. “Liam, you're right, I am glad to see you. I've barely seen you since we arrived. I've missed you.” She gave him a tight lip smile as if she meant it. “Wow, look at Ethan.” Liam stated as Ethan walked out of the dressing room.

Isabella gave him a smile that never reached her heart. “You look enticing. You'll be the best dressed groom ever.” Liam scoffed. “That’s cause I haven't got my shot yet.”

Ethan grinned from ear to ear. “Thank you. And I think I'm all set then.” Ethan clears his throat and looks at Isabella. “Hey Isabella, can you--” Madelyn emerges from the back room with a grin. “Great news everyone! John Copping would be thrilled to rush my veil and--” she pauses, gazing at Ethan. “My love! I'm not supposed to see you until the big day! It’s a bad luck.”

“Right, right, sorry I'll go change.” He rushes towards the dressing room. “And stay back there until you're told to come out, okay? I'm going to try on my dress next!” Ethan gives Isabella a long look before disappearing into his dressing room again.

She wished they could get the chance to talk previous night. Or this morning, or anytime. She needed to know what moving up the wedding means for the two of them.

Once the coast was clear, Madelyn follows Ethan into the dressing room area. A few minutes later, she returns, grinning from ear to ear as she pulled her hair back into a chic bun and shows off her dress. “Well? Don’t you just love it?” She did a little twirl, the sheer layers of the dress spinning around her.

“I think you already know how I feel, Madelyn.” Liam commented. He gives her a chef’s kiss and she beams. “Well? Isabella, any shade to throw, or have I finally stunned you into silence?” Isabella shrugs and spoke nonchalantly. “You look fine. It’s a nice dress, and you look like you always do.”

“Hm! That’s not exactly the reaction I was hoping for, but I agree, the dress is nice.” Madelyn stands in front of the mirrored wall, and Isabella looked away, trying to ignore the pang in her heart.

Liam heads out to answer a phone call while Madelyn sauntered into the dressing room to change. Isabella look around the empty room. Her eyes drifts to the other dressing room door, where she knew Ethan was still chasing out of his clothes.

She heaved a long sigh as she thought of sneaking into the dressing room to talk to Ethan while he changes.

She took a deep breath, then slip into Ethan’s dressing room.

“Isabella? What're you doing in here?” He raises his eyebrows when she locked the dressing room door behind her. “We need to talk, and we haven't been able to find a moment alone, so I just thought...” She forced her eyes away from his sculpted body and took a seat on the bench along the side wall. “I get it and I'm glad you're here.” He took a sit next to her and waits for her to gather her thoughts.

“So... three weeks until you're married, huh? Or I guess three weeks minus one day now...” He exhaled sharply, his heart feeling heavy the more he looked at her. “I'm sorry we ambushed you like that. Madelyn thought it’s be fun to surprise our parents with the news.”

“I keep reminding myself that you were always getting married, and even though we never really talked about what we’d do then.” Her eyes welled up, but that wasn't the right time to tear up. “I know, Isabella. It feels like our time is being cut short.” She finally looked over at him, catching his eyes. “I'm sorry. This is harder than I though it’d be.” She swallows back the tears trying to keep her composure.

Ethan reaches out to cut her cheeks. “You have nothing to apologize for. I am the one who's sorry. I'm selfish. And eventually, you are gonna get sick of my bullshit and leave, and I'll have to let you walk away.” He had managed to keep buried deep inside. “Then I’ll only see you when i can’t help but look up your social media, and someday there'll be pictures of your wedding day on there.” He drifts closer with each word. “A wedding I wasn't invited to. To some man I've never met. One I'm sure isn't good enough for you... but is infinitely better than me.” Unhappy lines on his face ether deeply. “Hey... don’t say that. There’s no man for me after you. I'm just gonna focus on my career.”

“Then maybe I'll run into you at a conversation someday. We’d go to the hotel bar, for old times’ sake. Talk about our families, our jobs. Try to keep it professional.” Isabella curved her lips upwards. “Because that always works so well for us. I bet we’d end up fumbling for our room keys while we make out in the hallway.” He couldn't help but chuckle. “I like this version of the future. The one where we end up together, no matter what.” He leans in, brushing his lips softly against hers. Her heart flutters. “I know I'm being greedy. Reckless. Insatiable.” His lips ghost against hers again, leaving her breathless.

“At least we had a few weeks of bliss. I wouldn't trade them for anything.” Her voice cracks as she trip over the realisation that her flirtations have always been doomed. Ethan lifts her chin, so his eyes blazes into hers. “It’s not over, Isabella.” She gave him a half smile. “You’re right. We’d better make our last few days together count.”

He thread his fingers into her hair, pulling her into a fierce kiss that deepens when she gasps. “We should... Madelyn...” But even as she tried to remind herself that she's in a bridal fitting room, with Ethan’s fiancee just down the hall, she finds herself pulling him closer. “Tell me to stop, and I will.” She shook her head, wrapping her arms around his neck. “I never said you should.”

She melts in his arms, her arms guiding him closer so she could draw his body flush against hers.

She sucked at his tongue and run one hands down his body, exploring very thoroughly/ when she finds what she was looking for, she lets her hand wrap around his hardness and give it a playful squeeze. “Isabella... please...” His hips buck up, seeking the friction of her touch. She was tempted, but she reminds herself of her plan. She stroked him as he put all of her passion into her kiss, then she abruptly tear herself away. “Wha- Isabella?”

She smirks as she dance out of his reach. She glance over her shoulder, where she has left Ethan sitting on the bench, hard as a rock for her. “We have to be good, remember?” She teased, giving him a playful smirk. He reached to grab her hand.

“How’s everyone doing in there?” The two of them freeze at the knock on the door.

“Good! Just... finishing up.” Ethan retorted as Isabella giggled softly but only Ethan could hear it. He flashes her a rueful smile as he reaches his clothes. “I guess that’s their not-so-subtle way of kicking us out for their next appointment.”

“It’s probably for the best. We’re lucky we weren't interrupted sooner.”

“Maybe we’ll have to continue this later.” He winks at her. Isabella smoothes her down. “You wish,” she teased, beaming at him. “You're right about that.” He finishes getting dressed but pulls her into one last lingering kiss before she left.

They carefully slipped out of the dressing room one at a time. “Looks like the coast is clear.” His phone buzzes in his pocket, and he glances at the message. “Madelyn says she needs some adjustment to her dress, so she's downstairs getting it fitted.” Isabella nods and look around the store, taking in all the racks of lace and chiffon.

A bridal associate walked up to them. “Hey, do you two need any help?” She asked politely. “No, thank you. We’re just browsing.” Said Ethan. The bridal associate looks between Isabella and Ethan, grinning. “Bringing the future husband with you to buy your dress? Not many brides are as modern as you.” She commented, adoring the two of them. She thought they were together.

“Oh, we’re not a couple.” Isabella set things straight. The lady gave her a skeptical look, then leans in so only Isabella could hear. “If you, uh... change your mind, then you should check out our displays in the back. That's where we keep the best stuff.” She winks afterwards. Isabella nods, her mouth agape. “O...okay I'll keep that in mind.”

Ethan gives her an amused smiled after the bridal associate leaves to help another bride. “What was that about?” Isabella raised her shoulders. “I don’t know, but she seems to think we need to check this stuff out.” She runs her hands over an off-white lace gown, trying her best not to picture wearing a wedding dress for Ethan. “You'd look beautiful in that.” He commented. “Ethan, I wish we were shopping together right now. Maybe then we could pursue the ‘wedding night’ section.” She gestures towards the lacy lingerie in display in the back of the store.

“Is that... a paddle with the word ‘mine’ engraved on it? I had no idea there was so much wedding themed... paraphernalia in the world.”

She cocks an eyebrow at him and lift a red with black lace lingerie set from the closest rack. “I bet we could make pretty good use of this stuff together.” Ethan closes his eyes and swallows hard. She smirks when he finally looks at her again. “Isabella, it’s not nice to tease. You know this will just be another weight for my imagination to carry, huh?” She chuckled softly. “You and me both.” She puts the lingerie back and glance at Ethan.

The two of them share mischievous smile, and for a moment, she forgets about everything else.

That evening. Isabella made popcorn and look for a move to pass the time. “Seen it... seen it... aha! Nothing like drowning my sorrows in latest Zac Efron flick.” She mouthed to herself. “Mind if I join you?” She looks up and fins Ethan leaning against the doorway. “No, bur I should warn you, my main goal tonight is to see a hot guy shirtless.” She teased him. “I think I can handle that.”

She starts the movie, then settle on the couch next to Ethan. They were few inches away from each other, but she draws closer and loser as the movie plays. “Ethan...” She whispered to him. They lock eyes and Ethan extends one finger to skate along her jaw.

She lean forward just enough to close the gap, sighing contentedly as their lips finally touched. He coaxes her mouth open just enough to let his tongue slip inside, his hands coming up to cup he cheeks.

Her heart beats faster as her hand shakes down between his legs. “What're you thinking about that’s got you so real for me?” She asked in a low voice. “You in that lingerie from the store...”

Just them, they hear key in the front door. The two of them spring apart. Madelyn’s brother appears. “Hey, party people. Don’t mind me, I just came to grab the lambo from the garbage.”

Isabella grunted softly, almost forgetting that was Madelyn's family house. “Oh sweet, I've been wanting to watch this movie.” He settles onto the couch between them, digging his hand into the bowl of popcorn. She catches Ethan’s eyes over his head. So much for their alone time.

Eventually the movie draws her in, she was able to ignore the ‘what ifs’ floating around her head.

Early the next morning. Isabella pours herself a cup of coffee and make it outside, hoping to have a minute alone with her thoughts. “Good morning, Isabella. Sleep well?” She stop short at the sight of Madelyn already on the patio, piles of paperwork in front of her, she clearly had an early start to her day. That’s if she ever went to bed. “Madelyn, you scared me!”

“Seriously, you need to stop being surprised when you see me in my own home.” She rolled her eyes and turned away. “Right. Sorry.” She waves away Isabella’s apology as if it means nothing.

“I was hoping to run into you this morning. Turns out, my best friends won't be able to make the wedding on such short notice, thanks to her honeymoon and all. So I was wondering... will you be my maid of honour?”