A Wedding to Remember

By K L Snider

Liliana Carmichael and Thomas Westbrook have both suffered personal tragedies and are unwilling to trust love. Will Lily's devastating secret destroy her last chance at happiness? Can Thomas open his heart again and invite someone to share his life? His children's lives? Join them on their journey to release the past and brave what the future can hold, in K.L. Snider's second installment of the Westbrook Trilogy

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Jul 30, 2016
• ISBN: 9781365295119

Book preview

A Wedding to Remember

A Wedding to Remember

By K.L. Snider

Copyright 2016 by K.L. Snider

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Distributed by Lulu.com

Cover art by Emily Howard Photography

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

To my friends and family

who inspire me and who

have supported my crazy ideas.

Thank You, KLS

Prologue

Liliana Carmichael is an energetic professional woman.  She is a corporate financial adviser with an eclectic client list, helping the very rich and the startup businesses alike.  She is active in her community, volunteering at the local no-kill animal shelter and the Detroit Girls Outreach.  She has recently purchased a stylish loft in the heart of Ferndale, Michigan and is content with her daily life.  She has friends and is always sociable, attending many upscale parties and events.  She is an avid exerciser, usually kickboxing and yoga.  She is beautiful and outgoing, but not truly happy.  Her life is seemingly wonderful, so why is she not happy?

After earning her Bachelor's in Finance degree at Northwestern University Kellogg Program, Lily met Alastair in a study group.  They were both studying for the FINRA series 65 exam, and she was also studying for the series 7 and 66 exams on her own.  She and Alastair both graduated from the Kellogg program and anticipated successful careers in finance.  They had much in common and were instantly attracted to each other.  After they both passed their exams and were registered with the SEC, they set out to multiply money.  Their passion for their careers transferred into passion for each other.  Within two years, they were living and working together in Manhattan.  They were engaged promptly after Alastair's first promotion and married within the year.  The expected marital bliss was short lived, and they were divorced two years later. 

Lily was emotionally drained and exhausted after her divorce, so she moved back home to the Detroit area to rebuild herself and her career.  That was ten years ago, and today her career is flourishing.

Her emotions have not recovered as well. To survive the heart break and disappointment of her marriage, Lily has disconnected her emotions.  She doesn't accept love of any kind from a man.  This tactic has made life easier but lonely, which was perfectly acceptable... until now.

Lily is at the most beautiful wedding she has ever seen.  The ceremony was in the Crystal Gallery at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA).  The reception is in the Great Hall with dancing in the Rivera Court, also at the DIA.  The strolling dinner is scrumptious, the champagne is heavenly, and the guests are jovial and inviting.  She has already danced with a dozen single men.  Most of which seem to be related, since they were all very wide and muscular with black hair.  There was even a cowboy. 

She and the bride Francesca, she calls her Frankie, have been friends for years.  Both women have been single all that time, and now Frankie has found true love.  She is extremely happy for her friend and maybe a bit envious.

The bride is being twirled around the dance floor by one of these gorgeous men, and they are coming her way.  They stop right in front of her, both laughing.

Thomas, I would like you to meet my friend Lily.  Lily, this is JD's brother Thomas. Frankie introduces her to one of these gorgeous men who is the groom’s brother.  They shake hands.  Then the bride is swept away by the groom, leaving Lily standing alone with Thomas.

Lily waves to her friend then turns to talk to the divinely handsome man standing in front of her.  So, you are Frankie's brother-in-law?

Yes, we all love her very much.  Thomas replies, he feels nervous unexpectedly.

She watches him sneak glances her way.  Swaying slightly to the music she says, Oh, this is such a beautiful song.  Would you mind?  Lily holds out her hand and smiles at Thomas.

He looks from her hand into her eyes, she is stunning. I would be honored.  He takes her into his arms and guides her to the Rivera Court. How do you know Francesca?

We have been in the same kickboxing classes for years.  One day we decided to introduce ourselves and we have been friends since.  Lily feels the magical night is influencing her so she summons her courage to speak openly with this man.

Thomas is apprehensive and excited at the same time.  As they move together to the music, he is aching to hold her closer.  When she turns her head, he smells her hair and it smells like warm sunshine.  She leans in and his heartbeat starts to go wild.

Lily wants to be nearer to him, but he isn't pulling her closer.  She leans in a bit, then when he smells her hair she leans in a bit more.  She can almost lay her head on his chest.  His broad muscular chest.  Inhaling his very manly cologne, her eyes are closed and she is smiling.  She feels his body heat and focuses on his hand in hers and the other on her back.  The sensation of his breath in her hair is alluring.  She has danced with a handful of gorgeous men tonight, but this one is different.  She feels his arms are made for her.  She can almost sense a vibration between the two of them.

All at once, the spell is broken.

Daddy, daddy!  Thomas looks down at his two kids pulling on his tuxedo and pushing between he and Lily. Can we go with grandma?

Oh, sorry.  He says to Lily.  Then looking down at his children he says, of course you can.  Let's find grandma together.  He disentangles himself and grabs each kid by the hand.  I have to find my mother, but it was nice meeting you Lily.  Thank you for the dance. Reluctant to leave her, he looks into her eyes for a moment then adds, kids apologize to Miss Lily for your interruption and say goodnight.  The twins shyly comply. 

No problem.  It was nice meeting you too Thomas.  Bye kids.  She waves to the children who drag their father away.  Lily sighs and meanders to the bar for another glass of the heavenly champagne.  Marveling at the ornate ceiling and light fixtures of the Great Hall at the DIA as she strolls.  The romantic lighting is making the medieval suits of armor shine.  When she steps in line for a drink, she meets another handsome man.

Hello again, you need a drink too?  The man says.

Again?  Have we met?

We just danced, am I that forgettable?  He points to the Rivera Court.

I was just dancing with Thomas.  Who are you?  Lily is getting confused and annoyed.

Oh, you don't know who I am?

I think we have established that.  She replies impatiently.

I'm sorry.  I am Thomas' twin brother, Edward.  We're identical, see?  He puts his hands up expectantly.

No, I don't see.  You two cannot be identical.  I mean, you look different.  She doesn't want to hurt his feelings, but Thomas is definitely better looking.  She smiles weakly.

Well, I am sorry to bewilder you.  Thomas and I have been playing that game since we were kids.  I apologize if I offended you. Edward is watching her closely.

Thank you for the apology.  I do not appreciate games as others may.  Lily is annoyed but she doesn't want to get angry.  The Great Hall is enchanting and has a calming effect on her.  I enjoyed meeting your brother and I am happy for your family.  Frankie is wonderful, she and JD will be very happy.  She smiles at Edward and shakes his hand, then picks up her glass. Nice to meet you.

As she walks away, Edward sees Thomas across the room staring at her.  He is following her with his eyes.  Edward observes his brother for a few minutes, then walks back to his wife Zoe.  Have you seen Thomas?  I think he has a crush.  He nods towards Lily.

Zoe follows her husband’s line of sight to find Lily in the Rivera Court studying the murals.  She is standing under the Baby in Bulb fresco and she seems to be frowning.  She is stunning, that is who Thomas likes?  How do you know that?  She asks her husband.

His face was peaceful when they were dancing, and he was staring at me when I was talking to her.  He looked jealous.  He turns to his wife smiling. She can tell us apart.  She didn't believe we're twins.  He explains to his wife.

Zoe raises her eyebrow speculatively.  I think I will investigate your theory, she sets down her glass and says, watch the kids I'll be right back. 

Lily is standing at the Rivera Murals, lost in thought. The Baby in Bulb fresco by Diego Rivera has always spoken to her.  She is staring up at the eastern wall with painting of the fetus inside a plant bulb indicative of the human connection to the earth and new beginnings. She hears someone asking her a question about the murals and turns to meet Zoe. 

Hello I'm Zoe, Edward’s wife.  I didn't mean to disturb you.  You seem lost in thought.

Oh, no it's fine.  I'm Lily.  The women nod to each other, then both look back at the murals. I am always drawn to this piece, Baby in Bulb.  I am fascinated by the whole process of creation.  Feeling that she is saying too much, she stops talking immediately.

Zoe notices her agitation and wonders why she is compelled to stare at this particular piece. Do you have children?  Are you married?

No. Lily turns to face Zoe. Would you like a glass of champagne? I am going for a refill.

Zoe looks down at Lily's glass and it's full.  Sure, I'll walk with you.  They turn and walk out of the courtyard through the Great Hall to the bar area.  So you are friends with the bride?  I don't know her well, but I really like her.  She has a quiet way and she is passionate.  We are lucky to have her in our family.

She really is wonderful.  She and JD look so happy.  Lily surveys the bar line.  I am sorry if I was rude to your husband, he just caught me off guard.

He and Thomas played that trick on me when we were dating.  I agree, it's not funny.  Don't worry, Edward needs to be put in his place every now and then.  Zoe smiles at her.  What do you think of Thomas?  She is openly inspecting Lily's reaction.

He is handsome and charming.  We really didn't have time to talk.  Lily says looking down.

Zoe didn’t miss the twinkle in Lily’s eyes when she said he is charming. There are a lot of handsome and charming men here tonight, have you found anyone else to your liking?

Everyone is agreeable and you are probably related to most of them.  She smiles at Zoe who nods in confirmation.  I am just here to support Frankie. I mean Francesca, I call her Frankie.  Besides, I'm not worried about finding a man.

Zoe waves her hand dismissively. Of course not, but a wedding is always more fun with a little romance.  Zoe is studying Lily’s face and body language. She is almost unreadable.  Maybe she is shy.  Zoe wants Thomas to have fun, so she takes a chance.  The family is staying at the Book Cadillac Hotel, and I am sure there will be an after party.  We Westbrooks can't seem to end a party when we all get together.  You should come by, so I can introduce you to everyone.

Lily ponders the invitation.  A little romance she says, one night with a gorgeous man sounds good. Besides, she’s not ready to go home.  Why not?  That sounds fun.  Lily and Zoe clink champagne glasses.  

Chapter One

Thomas rolls over in bed and awakens to a quiet house.  The sun is shining through his bedroom window and streaming across his bed.  He lifts his hand and wiggles his fingers through a ray of sunshine.  Smiling and throwing back the covers, he gets out of bed to start his peaceful day.  Yawning and stretching, he peers out of his bedroom window.  Through the bay window he has a perfect view of the three-acre pasture on the east side of his property.  It's January so his yard is snow covered and glistening.  Even though it's only twenty-five degrees outside, it looks beautifully pristine from inside.

Thomas has seven-year old twins, so a sublimely peaceful house is a rare occasion.  The children are at his in-laws for a long weekend and have only been gone overnight.  He has a list of things to get done while they are away, starting with cleaning their rooms.  He pads down the stairs in his pajama pants and socks to get a cup of coffee and plan his day. 

Thomas leans against the counter, while the Keurig is brewing.  He scratches his naked shoulder and yawns again. Surveying the kitchen and dining areas, he realizes he may need to add more to his to-do list.  The walls need a fresh coat of paint, the windows need to be cleaned, the base boards need a scrub, and the list goes on.

Sighing, he grabs his coffee and heads back upstairs to the twins’ bedrooms. He goes into Molly's room first.  She has dolls and art supplies on her table and desk, but the floor is cleaned up. That's my good girl, he says smiling.  He moves things around on the desk to look at her latest masterpiece.  A pencil drawing of the barn and pond in their yard, very nice.  She is always doodling then running through the house to show off her drawings.  Her room is acceptable, so he goes into his son's room across the hall.

Damn, the bomb went off in here!  Thomas laughs and kicks at the toys and clothes on the floor.  Using his toe to lift a board game, he finds the other shoe Tommy was looking for last night.  Nodding and smiling, he leaves the room to find his cell phone.  He sits on the edge of his bed and scrolls through his phone.  No messages from the in-laws, the kids must be behaving.  He reads a text from his brother JD in Detroit and decides to call him while he does his farm chores.

That all sounds boring, you should visit us for the weekend.  You won't believe how big the babies are already, and Dominick has designed us a new house.  JD tells Thomas hoping to lure him for a visit to Detroit.

Your son is quite ambitious so he must get that from Francesca. Thomas says teasingly.  I really have a lot to do around here.  He is trying to convince himself to stay home and get some much needed work done.  Thomas really wants to see JD and Francesca, and he always has a great time at their house.  He hasn't seen their twin babies in a month.  He ponders this while walking around his snow covered yard and talking to JD on the phone.

Francesca really wants you to come over, maybe you can finish what you need to do and fly out first thing tomorrow.  JD slyly turns his invitation into a compromise, and it can't hurt to add the wife’s wishes.

Well, I guess I can get a lot done today.  Maybe I can finish the rest another time.  He sounds sulky, but he wants to go.  He distractedly feeds the chickens and closes the coop, then goes into the barn to move the cows to pasture.

I tell you what big brother, you come this weekend and we will visit you for winter break in February with the kids.  Dominick and I can help you get whatever you need done then.

You drive a hard bargain little brother.  Thomas closes the gate to the pasture and leans on it.  What is Francesca making for dinner tomorrow?

Always thinking with your stomach. What would you like?  JD asks, while his wife is whispering to him.

Anything he wants, just get him here. Frankie whispers to JD.

Those beef roll things were amazing, maybe that?  Giving in, he sighs.  Okay, you have talked me into it.  I will see you tomorrow.  I'll rent a car at the airport.

JD laughs heartily and gives his wife the thumbs up. We will see you tomorrow.

The light snow swirls around Lily's head as she gets out of her car and closes the door.  She is at her friend's house to pick her up for an afternoon of shopping.  Standing on the porch, Lily brushes the snow off her shoulders and rings the doorbell.

Lily, come in come in.  JD waves her inside the house.  He is tall with a wide muscular build, black hair, blue eyes, and very handsome.  JD is her friend Frankie's husband.  Francesca, Lily is here, he yells over his shoulder.

Oh, thanks JD.  Lily replies as she steps into the house and he takes her coat.  How is everyone today?  I don't hear any crying.  She smiles at the silence.

They are asleep, thankfully.  JD ushers her into the living room.  Do you want some coffee or tea?  It looks cold outside.

It's not too bad.  No thank you, I’m fine.  She sits on the couch just as Frankie comes running down the stairs.  Looking up at her friend, she surveys her face and clothes.  Usually Frankie has dark circles under her eyes and baggy clothes on, since she is supremely busy with her three month old twins.  Today she looks more rested and put together.  Are you ready to shop 'til we drop? 

I am indeed.  I’m thinking Somerset and a pedicure, after lunch of course.  Frankie smiles at her.  Then turning to her husband, she asks, are you sure you'll be okay?  Do you want me to take one with us? meaning a baby.

No my love, I can handle this.  You two go and have a great time.  Relax, shop, enjoy.  JD kisses Frankie sweetly and wraps a large bicep around her shoulder, then turns to Lily. I'm counting on you to make her have a carefree relaxing day.

You can count on me!  We're going to have a blast.  Your credit card might not make it back alive, but I will fulfill my mission.  Lily stands erect and salutes him, they all laugh. 

Frankie and Lily start their very girlie day at The Capital Grille for lunch, then shop from the inside out.  They begin at Soma Intimates, with both women trying on bra and panty sets.

I cannot believe you gave birth to twins less than four months ago!  You look great.  Lily exclaims when Frankie steps out of the dressing room stall.

I don't feel very beautiful.  My body has drastically changed, much more than after I had Dominick sixteen years ago.  The stretch marks alone make me feel ugly.  Frankie is trying to cover her belly and hips, while standing in front of the large mirror.  She is very curvy and voluptuous for her five foot four-inch frame.  Look at you! She motions towards Lily, you should model.

Lily is wearing a lavender lace bra and panty set that compliments her creamy skin and blonde hair.  She has an athletic build with subtle curves and is taller than Frankie standing at five feet eight inches. Stop.  I'm just taller, that's all.  You are beautiful, besides you have always embraced your curves. She replies to Frankie then asks, what does JD say?

That I am the most beautiful woman in the world, but I think he has to say that since we're married.  Frankie smiles at Lily, then realizes what she said and tries to cover. I think he is just being nice.  Looking down she feels awful, she remembers the stories of Lily's horrible ex-husband.

"Well, today we're going to get you something that you will believe that you're his most beautiful woman, ever."  Lily ignores her earlier comment and encourages her friend.

You're a great friend.  She straightens up and smiles. Okay, dress me irresistibly.  I warn you, he may carry me away and leave you to babysit.

Eek!  Lily throws a pair of panties off the rack at her. Forget it then, let's get out of here!  They laugh and Lily finds a sales woman to measure Frankie.

The rest of the afternoon is jovial and wonderful.  They chat while they shop, catching up on each other’s lives. The pair pick out a few new bra and panty sets at Soma.  They venture over to Saks Fifth Avenue to select a few pieces of very sexy lingerie.  Then over to Kate Spade and Ann Taylor for everyday outfits, and lastly to BCBG so Lily can find a dress for the International Auto Show of Detroit.  It's a big event worthy of the sexy black cutout gown, since Detroit is the Motor City.  The two women are shopped out, tired, and hungry.

We should get back. I need to feed a baby before I explode.  Frankie motions to her enlarging breasts.  We didn't get our pedicures, damn. Her shoulders slump a bit.

Next time we will make it a spa day!  Lily raises her eyebrows.  How are JD and the babies? She asks when Frankie looks at her cell phone again.