I drop them into his hand, holding back a cold metal coin in my fist. When I open my palm, my chest thunders, my heartbeat accelerating to its highest level.

“What’s that?” Keith asks, looking down at the triquetra symbol on the coin.

“It’s a symbol of eternal love,” I whisper.

He hums before getting into the driver seat.

39. Autumn

39

AUTUMN

“You look lovely, Autumn,” Maya gushes as I walk into her bridal suite.

“Thank you, but that should have been my line.” I smile as she stands before me in her white bridal gown. “Andy is very lucky. You’re breathtaking today.”

“Thank you so much.” She holds my hand and leads me away from the ladies of her family. “I really mean it. This is the wedding I’ve always wanted. Away from the paparazzi, just family and friends. It’s a dream come true.”

My chest fills with warmth as her eyes shine with tears. “I’m very happy to hear this. But no crying.” I squeeze her hand.

She nods and smiles. “Will we see Lukas today?”

His name makes my breath hitch, but I try to hold back the anguish and nod. “Yeah, he’ll be here.”

“Good. Andy and I want to thank you both together. Without you guys, it wouldn’t have been possible.”

“I’m so happy for you both. You’re perfect for each other.” I give her a final squeeze before leaving her suite.

I’ve been a part of so many weddings at this inn, and never once has my own wedding day come to mind. But today, watching Maya surrounded by her family, her friends, I realize I’d had none of this.

I lean back against the wall outside the bridal suite, trying to push the image of seeing Lukas for the first time out of my mind.

The way he stopped his Harley and kicked the bike stand before getting off. Then, he took his helmet…

“Auttie!”

I open my eyes to find Chiara standing before me, her lips pursing into a thin line as she watches my tears. “Sorry.” I quickly wipe my face and turn away from her.

Thank God she’s the one who found me like this.

Before I can run farther, she holds my hand and pulls me toward the small balcony.

“Why the hell is Lukas coming today?” She doesn’t let go of me.

“Because Andy invited him.”

“I don’t like it, Autumn. I don’t like this at all. He can’t just disappear and then waltz into your life whenever he likes.”

I pull my hand away, and at the last minute, stop from digging it into my forehead in a failed attempt to alleviate the headache. “I don’t think he’s interested in my life, Chi.”

Her gaze shoots to me. “Then Lukas Spencer is the most stupid person I know.”

I give her a sad smile, but her face remains serious.