Free Do Overs by Cerian Hebert Page A

died before it could completely form. The heartbreak pulled her down, along with the black anger.
    Her fingers tightened around the lacy skirt of her gown. If only it were Brian’s neck.
    She leaned back against the wall, closed her eyes, and relaxed her fists in a half-hearted attempt to squash the fury simmering deep inside. She wanted to block out any reminder of what was supposed to be the happiest day of her life, like the sight of the bouquet she’d hurled against the wall after reading Brian’s letter. She had no idea where the one-carat diamond engagement ring she’d sent flying across the room had gone. She didn’t give a good goddamn, either. Slowly, in the silence broken by Will’s even breathing, Lori let her anger recede, if only for a moment.
    “Why did he do this, Will? Why like this?”
    “I have no idea.”
    His voice was close. She opened her eyes and found him sitting on the floor next to her. “I had no clue he was unhappy or even seeing someone else. I feel like such an idiot.” Anger flashed hot in her belly again.
    “Don’t, because you’re not.”
    “Easy for you to say. You’re not in my place right now.” Despite the warmth in his gray eyes, she didn’t want comfort. Misery raged inside, pushing at her chest, and stuck in her throat until she thought she would choke on it.
    Will lifted her hand in his and held it, his thumb stroking gently.
    Reluctantly, Lori allowed him the contact and concentrated on the soothing touch, letting it sink into her skin. A long moment passed. Her heartbeat slowed from a rapid hammer to a steadier rhythm.
    “I guess I can’t hide here all day. Won’t solve anything.” She drew in a breath and slowly released it to disperse the tension that had her heart in a stranglehold. “Gotta face all the people out there. It’s going to be horrible.”
    Will squeezed her hand and bumped her shoulder with his. “They love you and they’ll be fine. You’ll be fine.”
    She grimaced at his promise. “I don’t want them to feel sorry for me.”
    Will pushed himself to his feet and held his hand out to her. She didn’t accept it for a long moment, but regarded him with interest, wondering why he’d been able to calm her. If one of her bridesmaids were here, no doubt she’d whip Lori into a frenzy. Instead, Will managed to steady her. She accepted his hand, allowing him to help her to her feet.
    “First I’m going to change out of this thing.” She fingered the skirt of the gown she’d chosen for this day. Her dream gown. Her dream wedding and her dream man. What a damned joke. “Tell everyone out there to stay put.”
    He nodded and leaned forward to kiss her gently on the cheek. Warmth filled her at the simple gesture. Leave it to Will to help her get through. She knew she could count on him. Silently, he left the room.
    Read more of The Better Man when it’s available May 2013.