Paulie Hajek has loved weddings since childhood, so naturally it makes sense that his current job is in the wedding planning business. Unfortunately, that also means he works with Van Tremaine, his boss’s brother and a former bed partner who refused to commit to something permanent, like marriage. Paulie has been heartbroken for a year, but he’s not giving up on happily-ever-after, though the gloss has dimmed somewhat.<br><br>Van has a lot to prove to Paulie, whose love-tinted view of the world once struck fear in his forty-five-year-old heart and made him act like a fool. It doesn’t help that Paulie catches him with an intern in a compromising position, either.<br><br>To prove he’s changed, Van resorts to a bit of trickery which, in the end, may or may not give Paulie what he’s always wanted, if he can forgive Van for being an idiot. Will he say yes?

Paulie and the Wedding Bell Grouch

“That’s been over for a while. He was convenient and willing, and I was callous enough to use him for that very purpose. I haven’t been with anyone since him.”


I was surprised. “Why? You have a healthy sexual appetite. I know you don’t really like being alone for long periods of time.”


“Well, you haven’t been screwing around either, but I don’t hear you complaining,” he retorted.


“You keep saying that. What you need is someone in your life to help you makethe time.”


Whatever. “This is a ridiculous conversation.”


Van sat back and closed his eyes briefly. “I’m sorry. I just worry about you.”


My eyebrows hit my hairline. “You never did before, that I know of, and there’s no need. I’m fine, really.”


He didn’t say anything else after that and focused on his meal. What was all this about, and why the sudden interest in my welfare?


Chapter 9