Page 287 of Champagne Nights

“Looks like we have a wedding to plan. You are going through with it this time, right?”

I let out a chuckle. “Yes. You know I am. By the way, thank you for talking with Ellie. I really appreciate it, even though she wouldn’t tell me what you said.”

“That’s because it’s between her and I. You don’t need to know, son. All you need to do is love her and take care of her for the rest of your life.”

“I’m going to.”

“And the two of you better give me some grandchildren. I’m not seeing that anytime soon from your sister.”

“I’m sure we will, Dad. We both want kids.”

“Well, hurry it up. Your mother and I aren’t getting any younger.” He gave me a wink.

“Congrats, big brother.” Addison threw her arms around me.

“Thanks, sis. How is everything going with you and Jack?”

“Great. I think he’s the one.” She grinned.

“I think so too.” I pulled her into me.

“Um, did Ellie tell you what dad said to her?”

“No. Did she tell you?”

“No. The only thing she said was they had a really deep conversation. Is that even possible with him?”

“Apparently, it is.” I laughed.

“Whoever would have thought.” She shook her head.

Chapter Forty

ONE MONTH LATER

Ellie

“Happy birthday, sexy.” I grinned as I planted small kisses across his face.

“Thank you. You are the best birthday present ever,” he signed as he kissed my lips.

“I have two presents for you,” I said as I reached over and pulled a small, wrapped box from the nightstand. “Open this one first, and you’ll get your second gift.” I smiled as I reached down and stroked his hard cock.

“Damn, Ellie.” He quickly tore the wrapping off.

He opened the box, pulled out a small card, and studied it.

“What’s this? Did you make me an appointment for something?” His brow arched.

“That is the date and time of my surgery for a cochlear implant.”

He stared at me for a moment as if he didn’t understand a word I said.

“Ellie. You don’t—” He started to sign.

“Shh.” I placed my hand on his. “I want to. I’ve been thinking about it since that night, and I want it, Henry. I want theimplant. I want to hear your voice when you speak to me. I want to hear music, and I want to talk to you on the phone. I want to hear you say our wedding vows and hear the waves crash against the shoreline. But most importantly, I want to hear our children’s laughter.”

A tear fell down his cheek as I took my finger and gently wiped it away.

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