Page 51 of Taking Chances in Cedarwood

“We’re pregnant,” Maddie blurted. She held up her left hand. “And we’re engaged.” Her diamond ring sparkled, and Nic beamed. “I needed to tell Dad he wasn’t walking me down the aisle. I don’t want him there.”

Ouch.He stared at his stepsister. “Did Dad want to know?”

“When he found out, he spewed a line of profanity to make anyone blush,” Nic said. “He hates me, said I was terrible for her and he refuses to return to Ohio.”

“He hates everything.” Andrew shrugged. “Dad isn’t the best at hiding his feelings—even for the sake of a big event.” He paused. “Did Dad say anything about us having to accept his new squeeze before he’d come back to the farm?”

“He did.” Maddie frowned. She groaned, then leaned into Nic. “That figures. He’ll only accept us if we allow him to do what he wants. He can insult Nic and Cain and our moms, but we have to accept him.” She rubbed her forehead. “Enough about him. We’re all here because I wanted to tell everyone in person that I want you, Andrew, to walk me down the aisle.”

“Me?” He wobbled, despite sitting. “Maddie?”

“You’ve been there more than Dad ever was and you tried, even when I was a pain in your ass. You’re the brother I never thought I’d have and the one I don’t deserve. You walking me down the aisle is what I want.” Tears slid down her cheeks. “It’d mean a lot to me if you’ll accept. Will you?”

He didn’t have to think about this. “Yeah, I will.”

Maddie sobbed. “Thank you.” She threw her arms around him. “I was afraid you’d say no.”

“Why?” What was it about him that made everyone think he’d be upset? Was he that much of an ogre?

“Because you’re not—you don’t subscribe to marriage.” Maddie wiped her face. “I was afraid you’d tell me not to get married.”

“Never. I’m happy for you and honored to be there for you on your big day.” He’d make sure her wedding was beautiful.

Maddie let go and tucked against Nic. “Thanks.”

Nic held on to Maddie. “Andrew? We have a favor to ask.”

Cain grinned. His eyes sparkled.

“Okay?” He hated the concern dripping into his mind. What did they want from him now?

“We’d like to get married at the farm in the orchard,” Nic said. “In April. We’ll plan it as much as we can so it doesn’t interrupt planting season. May we use the space?”

“Of course.” He couldn’t tell them no. They’d probably have rain or mud, but whatever worked.

“Good.” Maddie dried her face again. “Whew. I thought you’d say no.”

“Never.” He’d spoil her rotten, just like he had once he’d found out she was part of the family. “Am I that much of a grouch? Everyone thinks I’ll be upset.”

Cain eased over to Andrew. “These are big decisions and they’ve all thought of the worst outcome in order to brace themselves. No one thinks you’re a grouch.”

Deborah hugged Maddie, then Nic. “It’s all worked out.”

“It did.” Maddie sighed. “Liam invited us to tour the sets and have dinner with him and Stone. I guess they’ve turned this building into a soundstage and a whole selection of sets. Who knew?” She composed herself. “We should go or we’ll be late.”

Joan hugged Andrew. “I know it’s a lot to take in, but I’m proud of you. I knew you’d make the farm into something special and you’d be successful. I did.”

“Thanks, Mom.” She’d always told him she was proud of him, but hearing the words again helped.

“And I knew you’d find this guy and be happy.” Joan grasped Cain’s hand. “Don’t let anyone take that away from you.”

“I won’t.” Cain hugged her.

Andrew’s head spun. He hadn’t embraced anyone or anything so much in his life.

Maddie waved her hand. “We should go. We’re late.”

“Come along,” Joan said. “You have to see these sets.”

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