31

July 17, 1919

Wedding Reception of Ann and Marty Hill

“You don’t think we’re attracting too much attention away from Marty and Ann, do you?” Josephine took small steps as Geoff foxtrotted her across the dance floor. “It is their wedding day.”

“If we are, it’s Marty’s fault for insinuating that you were attacked by a bear. And of course, there’s the fairy tale you wrote about me—making me out to be the hero of Belleau Wood. Julia hasn’t stopped apologizing for not understanding my circumstances. Not to mention, since I returned to Juneau, I can’t walk down the street without someone thanking me for my service.”

“I was honest about the struggles of your recovery but maybe a bit too generous with my praise. You’re getting almost as much fan mail as me now.”

“I think you’re worrying about nothing,” Geoff said, leading her in a calculated step. “Ann looks stunning in that creation of yours. People haven’t taken their eyes off her or that dress. But I have to say, it’s the bridesmaid in the orange gown that takes my breath away.”

“It’s peach. And it’s amazing the designs you can buy when your employer is generous with your pay.” She gazed up at Geoff and tightened her hold on his shoulder. She caressed the nape of his neck.

“You’re leaning,” he said with a satisfied grin.

“Would you like me to stop?”

“No.” His mischievous eyes scanned the circle of men around the dance floor. “I like the hint of envy on their faces. I’ll take envy over pity any day.”

He guided her to the center of the dance floor oblivious to the rhythm of the music. “Are you coming for Sunday dinner? My father and Julia are anxious to discuss wedding plans with your mother.”

“What a shame. Ann will be on her honeymoon,” she kidded. “But I don’t know about tomorrow. It might be a late night with all the festivities?”

“Can I tempt you with chocolate cake?”

“You don’t need cake to entice me, but if you want to spoil me, how about chocolate cake with strawberry filling.”

He pulled her closer. “Sounds good together.”

“Always.”