Read Online Accidentally Married by Victorine E. Lieske - Free Book Online Page B

make him happy, honey. That’s worth so much more than the price of this dress.”
    “I’m sure we can find a cheaper one.”
    A frown crossed Irene’s face. “But this one…look at it. So beautiful. It looks like it was made for you.” Irene put her arm around Madison and gave her a small hug. “I know this rushed wedding can’t be what you imagined, but if you can’t have the wedding of your dreams, at least you can have the perfect dress.”
    “But I—”
    “Not another word.” Irene motioned to the sales woman. “We’ll take it.”
    Madison swallowed. What was she going to do? Maybe she could pay Irene back. After she found a job, of course. She’d save up. Maybe even sell the dress. Yes, she’d find a way to give the money back.
    “Thank you,” she whispered, emotion making it difficult to speak. Irene was welcoming her into the family, no questions asked, no conditions. Just open arms. The feelings this brought to the surface were strong, and Madison struggled to bury them. This was only an acting job, she reminded herself. This wasn’t going to be her real family.
    Ten minutes later, they were leaving the dress shop with two wedding dresses ordered. Even though it was getting to be late in the day, the August heat hit them when they stepped outside. Patricia couldn’t stop talking about the wedding, and her excited chatter made Madison feel a little better.
    As they pulled up to the house, Patricia sucked in a quick breath.
    “What?” Irene asked.
    Patricia, staring out the passenger window, narrowed her eyes. “That’s Veronica’s car.” A yellow Jaguar convertible sat on the driveway.
    Madison wasn’t sure if she should know who that was, but decided to take the chance and ask. “Who’s Veronica?”
    Patricia turned a serious face to her. “Jared hasn’t told you?”
    “Um, I don’t think so.”
    “That’s not good.” She chewed on a fingernail, worry lines etched into her forehead. “She’s Jared’s ex. Come on, we’d better go inside. I’ll tell you about her later.”
    Patricia hopped out of the car and dragged Madison up the walkway and through the house. They found Jared in the living room, sitting on the couch next to a busty brunette wearing cute shorts and a trendy top. Gold bangles jingled on her arms. Her legs were crossed, and her feet were adorned with expensive-looking strappy heels. She was draped over him, and they were looking at what appeared to be a high-school yearbook.
    “Remember that? I can’t believe your hair.” She laughed, a deep throaty sound.
    “Hey, it was cool back then.” He blushed.
    Patricia folded her arms. “Veronica, what brings you here?”
    The sound of her voice made them both jump, and Jared’s blush deepened. He stood. “Um, Veronica, I’d like you to meet Madison, my fiancée.” He rushed over and put his arm around her waist.
    Veronica closed the yearbook and stood. “Aw, she’s adorable.” Her gaze flickered over Patricia. “Good to see you again, Patty.”
    Patricia stiffened.
    Veronica fanned herself. “Jared, I’m a bit hot. Do you mind being a sweetie and getting me a glass of ice water?”
    “Sure.” Jared left the room.
    Veronica meandered over to Patricia, doing a perfect hip-swaying thing. Long red fingernails adorned her hands, which she rested on her hips. “You look good, Patty. Love the haircut. Have you lost weight? You looked a little porky last time I saw you.” Her gaze turned to Madison. “And Maddie.” She said it like she might address a child. “You’re nothing like I thought you’d be. Jared usually goes for the more…sophisticated type.”
    Patricia’s lips tightened into a thin line. “Veronica—”
    “Don’t worry. I won’t get in the way of your wedding plans. I know you have lots to do, with such a rush and all.” She eyeballed Madison. “I’m sure there’s a good reason for the quickie wedding.” She patted Madison’s belly, tsked, then crossed the room.
    Madison was