Secrets of Us A Forbidden Love Romance (Alina)

Chapter 68

You Can't Deny It

The ceremony ends just as the sun dips entirely.

The only light comes from the bulbs that hang from the branches. I look around.

It's like something out of a dream, with fairy lights strung between trees and tables draped in pristine white cloth. The air buzzes with chatter and laughter as everyone moves toward the reception area.

I spot my mom and Jake standing near their table, surrounded by well-wishers.

My stomach churns, but I force myself to step forward, weaving through the crowd until I'm standing in front of them.

"Congratulations," I say, my voice soft but steady as I smile at my mother, even as my lips

tremble.

Her eyes narrow, a flicker of irritation crossing her face. "At least you stuck around tonight," she says, her tone sharp enough to slice through me.

I falter, the smile slipping. "I'm sorry-"

"There's no point, Alina. Just save the apologies. They don't mean anything anymore."

Heat rises to my cheeks, embarrassment and guilt crashing together. I nod tightly, not trusting myself to say anything else.

No one deserves to be yelled at on their wedding day.

Instead, I turn to Jake, who's watching the exchange with an unreadable expression.

"Congratulations, Jake," I manage, forcing a smile as I step forward to hug him.

His arms come around me, his hand on my naked lower back. I pull away quick, not

letting his touch linger.

"Thanks, Alina," he murmurs, his voice almost too intimate. His eyes linger on mine for a beat too long, leaving me flustered. I rub the back of my neck as I look around the place

for Aiden.

1/4

You Can't Deny it

table, where Zaid

other side as he

silence stretches as

table instead of having a sweetheart table. The silence is awkward and we all look at each other.

tense

decides to break the silence. He leans forward, arms on the table, and

I'll only be there for a few days. Diana plans to

to my mother in disbelief. "You're staying in Italy for three

well enjoy the time there. It's not every day you get to

say more. Of course, she'd use her honeymoon as

is a

his hand to my mother.

resting my head on his shoulder

Aiden

say happy," I reply, though my gaze flicks to Zaid. He's

and sees me leaning

2/4

You Can't Deny It

tightening.

about my response, and he presses a kiss to

takes the microphone, her smile radiant. "Tonight isn't just about Jake and me. It's

land on us. My mom grabs Aiden,

pounding

people are beginning to join the dance floor

rests lightly on my waist, his other hand holding mine.

It's just... this whole thing is a

closer, his gaze

look at him, wide eyed. His fingers caress the skin of my waist, my dress doing nothing to cover it. My skin prickles and the moment his