“Where’s Anthony?”
Charlotte glanced around and didn’t see him anywhere. A faint pang of disappointment settled in her chest.
“He’s upstairs.”
Helen rushed over, handing her a glass of warm water. “He’s been running around all day with the wedding stuff. He just fell asleep.”
Anthony had insisted on handling all the wedding details on his own. He didn’t want Charlotte getting worn out.
“Thank you, Helen.”
Charlotte took a sip, feeling the warmth spread through her, then headed upstairs with a bounce in her step.
The bedroom door was slightly open and swung back easily when she nudged it. Charlotte held her breath, quietly stepping inside and making her way towards the big, silent bed.
The lights were off. Moonlight slipped through the sheer curtains, making the shape under the covers just barely visible.
She bit her lip and moved to the edge, just about to pull the blanket back when a hand suddenly closed around her wrist.
The lights flicked on. Anthony blinked, taking in the sight of Charlotte’s bright, lovely face.
“Lottie…”
“It’s me.”
She had honestly thought she’d been quiet enough not to wake him, but clearly not.
If she felt awkward, she didn’t show it at all. Charlotte just lifted the covers, crawled right in, and snuggled up to Anthony like a koala. She rubbed her cheek against his chest and spoke in a sleepy mumble. “Anthony, I’m exhausted.”
“Weren’t we told we shouldn’t see each other before the wedding?”
It took Anthony a moment to catch up. He pulled her close and inhaled her scent, his voice rough with sleep. “Why did you sneak back in?”
“They only said the groom can’t see the bride. No one said the bride can’t go looking for the groom.”
Charlotte mumbled from somewhere in his arms.
Anthony opened his mouth, then closed it again, shaking his head with a helpless smile. Of course she’d find a loophole. That was so Charlotte.
“Go to sleep. I’ll take you back in the morning.”

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