Wildflower Wedding by Luann McLane Page B

course you stand over a wind tunnel,” she added with a grin. “Oh, but seriously, put a few curls in your short blond hair and you will actually do a pretty good impression of a young Marilyn Monroe. Rock some red lipstick and you will be the belle of the ball.”
    Gabby turned back to the mirror and held the full skirt out and then pivoted to see her back. She bit her bottom lip between her teeth.
    â€œIt’s no different than the sundresses I’ve seen you wear.” Addison pointed to the bed. “I see some dresses in there that show just as much skin. There’s just something about this iconic style that is sexy. But in a classy way. Put on those strappy heels over there and you will complete the look.”
    â€œOkay, I’ll wear it!” She twirled around, causing Addison to laugh, and then walked over and gave Addison a hug. “You’ve become such a good friend. What do I owe you for the dress?”
    Addison waved a hand. “Nothing! Just talk up From This Moment for me and we’re even. I’m carrying more than just wedding attire, and this dress showcases that for me.”
    â€œThanks so much!”
    â€œNow I’m going to get out of your hair so you can get ready. Have fun, Gabby! I want a full report over coffee soon. Or maybe a glass of wine? I love my husband, but I could use a girls’ night out.”
    â€œYou bet.” After Addison let herself out, Gabby hurried into her bathroom to do her makeup and hair. Fifteen minutes later she had soft curls in her layered hair and her bangs lifted off her forehead in a retro style. She added more drama to her eyes with a smoky shadow and black liner. Rummaging through her makeup drawer, she couldn’t find deep red lipstick but spotted a dusky rose in a free promotion she’d gotten with a purchase. Gabby blotted her lips and shook her head at her reflection. Although she wouldn’t normally have chosen such a dramatic shade, it was perfect for tonight.
    After spraying on a light floral scent, she went back into her bedroom and slipped on white sandals that added a few inches to her height. She put a few essentials in a little beaded clutch purse and decided that she was ready.
    â€œPhew!” She took a deep breath and glanced at the clock again. Reese was a little bit late, but she tried not to worry. He most likely worked up until right before he had to leave.
    Gabby glanced shyly into the mirror and was surprised at the glamorous woman staring back at her. She put a hand on her chest and felt the rapid beat of her heart. When had she been this excited about the evening ahead? “Probably never,” she murmured, and then suddenly wondered what Reese would think. Was this look a little bit too much? Would he think she was be coming on too strong?
    A moment later the doorbell chimed. Swallowing hard, Gabby smoothed her skirt and then fluffed her hair.
    She was about to find out.
    With each step that she took toward the door, Gabby tried to calm her heartbeat and was mildly successful until she swung open the door. “Oh my . . . ,” she breathed, and then felt a stab of panic when Reese turned around. “Wh-where are you going?”
    â€œI must have the wrong address. I don’t have a date with Marilyn Monroe.”
    Laughing, Gabby put a hand on his shoulder, tugging him back around. “Don’t go, Joe DiMaggio.” She hoped he thought the breathless sound of her voice was an imitation of Marilyn, but in fact she was just . . .
    Breathless.
    When Reese entered her kitchen she leaned against the sink and said, “And I thought I had a date with James Dean.”
    â€œAre you disappointed?”
    Her heart thudded when she looked at him. “Not in the least.” Reese seemed to fill the room with his presence. It wasn’t that he was tall, dark, and supersexy. What drew her to him was the humor, the intelligence shining in his eyes.