Page 60 of Don't Fall For Your Fake Boyfriend
I notice Willow and Anya walk back into the room, but they stand by the door, not wanting to distract from Callum’s speech.
“Paxton, growing up with you has been an adventure I wouldn’t trade for anything. From building forts in the backyard to playing endless games of catch. From the days when you used to follow me around, trying to keep up with my every move, to becoming the amazing man and beer rep you are today. Growing up, Paxton was always the thoughtful one, the one who would go out of his way to help others, and that’s something I’ve always admired about him.”
He smiles at the crowd, and then continues, “And then there’s Hartford. You’ve been a part of our lives for so long that it’s hard to remember a time when you weren’t. From the first day of kindergarten, when you and Paxton became instant best friends, to all the school projects, summer vacations, and countless sleepovers, you’ve been like a sister to me. You’ve always been there for Paxton, through thick and thin, and I couldn’t have asked for a better person to be by his side.”
My eyes find Willow’s and I smile at her. I’m rewarded with her gorgeous smile in return. I nod toward Callum, silently telling her I’m impressed with his speech so far. It’s amazing to me that she understands, nodding her head.
“Seeing your friendship blossom into love has been a beautiful journey to witness. You two complement each other perfectly. Paxton, you bring a sense of adventure and spontaneity into Hartford’s life, while Hartford, you ground Paxton with your kindness and wisdom. You also put up with all the Atwood’s and that is a feat of strength in and of itself.”
Callum gets a big laugh from that and continues with a smile on his face. “Together, you’re an unstoppable team, and I’ve never seen either of you as happy as you are when you’re together. Paxton, I’m so proud of the man you’ve become. You’ve found someone who loves you for who you are, who understands you in ways only a lifelong friend can, and who will stand by your side through everything. Hartford, thank you for loving my brother, for being his confidante, his partner, and now, his wife. You’ve always been family, but today, it’s official.”
Callum raises his glass, staring at Paxton and Hartford. “So, let’s raise our glasses to the bride and groom. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and countless adventures. May your days be filled with joy, your hearts with love, and your lives with endless happiness. To Paxton and Hartford, congratulations! I love you both."
I’m beyond impressed and proud of Callum. That speech was so much more than I imagined it would be. Paxton and Hartford clearly feel the same, as she wipes her tears as they all hug.
I grin at Willow and take a step in that direction when the microphone buzzes loudly from someone tapping on it. Everyone looks over to see Lake standing there with a smug look on his face. He looks distraught and slightly disheveled as he grabs the microphone.
“What the fuck?” I whisper, looking around at all the confusion in the room.
The room falls silent as everyone stares at him.
“Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m Lake Spriggs, a friend of Paxton’s. I wasn’t planning to speak tonight, but there’s something I need to get off my chest. Something that everyone here deserves to know.”
Willow’s eyes are bouncing from Lake to me and an uneasy feeling creeps through my pores. I’m frozen in place, unsure what the hell is happening when Lake looks directly at Willow.
“Willow and I used to be together. And I know it might sound like I’m bitter or that I’m trying to stir up trouble, but that’s not it. What I’m about to say comes from a place of hurt and betrayal, not malice.”
The guests exchange nervous glances, whispers starting to circulate through the crowd. My eyes widen as I look at Willow who stares at Lake with tears shining in her eyes.
This son of a bitch.
“I found out that Willow and Brock’s relationship has been a lie. They’ve been faking it. This whole thing has been an act to fool everyone. I don’t know all the reasons behind it, but I know for a fact that it’s not real. They’ve been pretending this entire time, making everyone believe in this perfect love story. But it’s all just a façade.”
He turns to Paxton, his voice softening. “Paxton, you’re my friend. You deserve to know the truth. Your brother is a liar and you took his side when he hit me over a woman he’s not even dating.”
Willow’s face pales, and I’m visibly tense. The guests are stunned, some looking at Willow and some looking at me in disbelief, others turning their attention to Paxton, waiting for his reaction. My mother is staring at me, shaking her head, hurt visible on her face.
“I’m sorry it had to come out this way,” Lake continues. “But I couldn’t stand here and watch this charade any longer. Everyone deserves the truth, especially on a day like this.”
He steps away from the microphone, the room buzzing with shocked murmurs and uncertain glances. The once joyous celebration has taken a dramatic and unforeseen turn, leaving everyone to grapple with the revelation and its implications.
“Brock, is it true?” Paxton asks.
I glance at Willow seeing the uncertainty on her face.
“Yes, it’s true. I’m so sorry,” she says through her tears. And then she’s gone. Anya chases after her, and I’m left shell shocked, unable to even move. .
“Fuck,” I say, running my hands through my hair.
Two things are certain. I need to talk to Willow and I need to kick Lake’s ass.
Chapter 27
Willow
“Willow, wait,” Anya says, rushing after me.
I lean against the sink of the women’s restroom and stare at the tears streaming down my face. I look awful, but I feel even worse.