Page 114 of Her Dark Lies

We stop by the huge windows overlooking the labyrinth, just out of sight of the landing.

“Are you ready?” Harper asks.

I nod. We’re moving so fast now I don’t have any more time to be nervous. The flowers hold the gentlest scent, and I let it soothe me.

“Okay. We’ll go first. Katie, I’ll lead so I can get my camera out for you, then Claire goes.” To me, she says, “When you see us at the bottom—” she points and I realize that if I crane my neck, I can see the overflowing urns that top the two pedestals of the base of the stairs “—that’s your cue.”

“Got it.”

She snaps another photo. “You really do look beautiful, by the way. I’m glad you didn’t let Jack do photos before. It’s so much more romantic this way.” She pulls the blusher over my face. “When I’m done with the photos, you will have an album to remember.”

“Thanks, Harper.”

The girls disappear, one by one, the heads sinking below the surface of my gaze as if they’re slipping underwater. There is an appreciative murmur from the guests assembled below.

I watch for the floating sea to pass the urns.

One. Two. Three.

It’s time.

65

A Mess of a Dress

The magnificent split staircase is perfectly situated for the dramatic arrival of a bride. Somehow, while I showered and dressed, they’ve been decorated top to bottom in flowers that match my bouquet. I remember the floating floral scent from earlier—they must have been in the breakfast room. Fatima and Ana certainly were busy overseeing things while Jack and I talked.

The wedding guests are arrayed at the base of the stairs. My mother, still a bit pale, and Brian, both smiling up at me tenderly. Katie, finally happy and excited. Harper, the shutter of her camera clicking away. The lawyers, Jack’s friends, appreciative. Elliot, who is looking at me in utter wonder. I feel a stab of hatred toward him.We will deal with you later, jerk. Tyler, and his adorable boyfriend, Peter. Fatima, standing on the far edge of the room. She sees me, nods, and whips away with a satisfied smile on her face. She’s headed toward the kitchens. I assume she’s going to let everyone know we’re on our way and I feel a rush of gratitude. I couldn’t have done this without her.

I stand at the top of the glorious stairs and listen to the gasps. I feel the grateful blush start running up my throat. All brides look beautiful, this is a given, and this dress does look lovely with my gossamer train.

I enjoy the sensation of being admired, letting all eyes find me.

Letting Jack’s eyes find me.

My heart stutters as I realize the murmur that’s started isn’t one of appreciation. It’s the angry buzz of a disturbed hive. Shock starts to register. Mouths drop open. I’ve done something wrong. Something terribly, dreadfully wrong. The grins on Ana and Brice’s faces turn to horrified grimaces.

I look to Jack again. His face, blank for a moment, has drained of all color. In a heartbeat that feels like it lasts an hour, his eyes meet mine and the pain I see there is overwhelming, visceral. He is angry with me, so angry that I recoil in shock.

He bursts into motion, bounds up the stairs, Ana right behind him. I flinch as he grabs my arm and pulls me away from the stairs, down the hallway.

“Jack, what is it? What’s wrong?” I stumble on the runner and he hauls me upright. He doesn’t speak until we get to our rooms.

He throws open the door and shoves me inside, then attacks.

“What are you playing at, Claire? Are you trying to get back at me? Take it off. Take it off right now.”

“What? What’s wrong? What are you talking about?”

He stops and faces me, shouting, roaring at me: “That’sherdress.”

Herdress.

Oh, my God. I search for words, at the same time trying to find the zipper. I want it off as much as he does.

“Jack, I—”

Ana takes my hand, her voice steady. “Come with me.”