Free Unbridled Pursuit (Novak Springs Book 2) by Dawn Brower

shut. Vitoria sat in one of the chairs scattered around the circle of mirrors. Peggy returned carrying a garment bag. She placed it on a hook outside the room where Ginny was changing into her wedding gown.
    “Is Ms. Zeiss inside?” She motioned toward the door.
    Vitoria nodded in the affirmative.
    “Yes, Peggy, I’m in here. Can you come in and button up the back of the dress?”
    Peggy opened the door and went inside. Vitoria could hear them rustling around and the quiet tone of their voices as they spoke. She couldn’t hear the actual words, but she got a happy vibe from their exchange.
    Several seconds rolled by, leaving Tori with time to think about the previous night. Wes and his hot punishing kiss. Why had he kissed her? What did he expect to gain from such an action? It frightened her how much passion he managed to stir inside her in such a short time. How could someone claim to hate her and then kiss her as if she was the only thing that mattered? It left her confused and unsure how to proceed.
    The first moment she saw him, her heart had pounded in her chest in a rapid staccato. She didn’t believe in love at first sight—but with Wes she’d been willing to find out if it was true. Then he opened his mouth and ruined all her fantasies. He’d taken an instant dislike to her. Tori had wanted to strip him naked and get to learn every inch of him.
    Wes seemed to have other ideas—like flaying her alive.
    He needed to decide if he wanted to take her to bed or decimate her life.
    Who was she kidding? He’d destroy her either way. Tori knew one thing for certain. Wes either had to leave her alone or jump all in. If he couldn’t leave her in peace, they would be constantly at each other’s throats. It wouldn’t bode well for their shaky truce. If he continued to randomly kiss her, it could lead them down a path neither one of them wanted to go.
    Ginnifer’s laughter interrupted her thoughts. She walked out of the dressing room, a vision in ivory satin. The gown had a classic sweetheart neckline embellished with silver and sparkling jewels down the center. The skirt was full and covered in a rich, embroidered-lace appliqué. It flared at her hips with a short lace train down the back. The veil she chose had a similar gorgeous lace appliqué as the skirt of her dress. It skimmed the edges of the sheer material and trailed down to  fingertip length.
    “Do you like it?” Ginnifer asked as she spun in a circle.
    “Oh, it’s absolutely perfect!” Vitoria gasped at how beautiful her best friend looked in the gown she chose. It suited her in every way possible. She glowed with delight as the skirts swished around her.
    “I’m glad you like it. I knew it was the one for me as soon as I saw it. Once I tried it on, I was in love—not as much as I love Dallas, but damn close.” Ginnifer’s laugh floated around them, coating them with her resounding joy.
    “I don’t believe you could have found a dress that fit who you are any better. You’re going to blow Dallas away.”
    “Oh, I certainly hope so.” Ginnifer trailed her fingers across the delicate lace of her gown. “I suppose I should take it off now. They’ve already prepped it for the needed alterations.”
    “Yes, you should. You wouldn’t want anything to happen to it before you’re big day.”
    Ginnifer scrunched her nose up, and a small giggle gurgled from within her. “Yeah. Can you believe it? I’m getting married. Something I never thought would actually happen.”
    “I’m in awe of you. I’m not surprised Dallas swept you up as soon as he saw you. You’re the best person I know.” A well of emotion swept through her. Vitoria waved her hand in front of her trying to gain control of her sudden need to cry. “He’s so lucky to have you.”
    Ginnifer pulled Tori into her arms and hugged her tight in her embrace. “You’re special too. Don’t ever forget it.” Ginny released her and stepped back. “Now I’m going to go take off