Page 26 of More Than a Silly Crush
“I wanted you to have a ring before we started inviting people. We can start at dinner.” He grazes his fingers over my hair. “And we don’t even have to make a big announcement because Mason videoed the whole thing, and he just flashed a thumbs-up and ran off. By the time we walk into the mess hall, everyone will know.”
Now I won’t worry about who knows what. The only secret left, the biggest one, will stay that way. People will make assumptions, and I’ll let them believe what they want.
I slide my fingers into his callused hand. “We should head that way. It’s been over an hour since I ate.”
Parker is perfect husband material, but I never noticed because he’s so much younger. The age difference doesn’t seem like a big deal now, thankfully. I just hope he doesn’t grow to regret his decision. It seems to me that I’m the only one benefiting from this arrangement.
He leads me up the path and back to the mess hall. Ava is standing in the doorway, and it’s clear the news has been broadcast based on the smile etched on her face.
She props her hands on her hips. “Here comes the happy couple!”
Parker squeezes my hand. “Surprise!”
“Well, we are.” She laughs. “Good thing a little bird gave me a heads-up. I have a cake to celebrate.” Without waiting for a reply, she heads toward the kitchen.
“Mad Dog must’ve mentioned it to her. I talked to him earlier about officiating. He’s happy to do it.”
“Oh, good.” I’m glad he’s holding my hand.
As soon as Parker and I step through the door, a cheer erupts.
Mason runs over and hands Parker his phone. “Got a video of the whole thing.”
“Thanks, buddy.” Parker tousles his hair, and a funny feeling explodes in my chest.
But I don’t have time to sift through feelings right now. Everyone wants to give us best wishes and congratulations. Being the center of attention stresses me, and I grip Parker’s hand a little tighter. I’m thankful he did the ring part without a big audience.
Poppy grins and opens her arms. “Big hug! I’m so happy for the two of you. Seriously beyond thrilled.”
Kent laughs. “Guess this romance stuff is a bit contagious.”
“I think so,” Parker says.
I smile, hoping the deception isn’t visible in my expression.
He drapes an arm around me. “Almost as soon as I found out she broke it off with that other guy, I dropped to one knee. I’ve been crazy about her forever.”
Poppy rubs my shoulder. “I’m excited for y’all. Have you set a wedding date?”
“A week from Saturday.” Parker glances down at me. “That’s the plan.” He raises his voice to be heard over the hum of conversation. “Mark your calendars for a week from Saturday. Y’all are all invited to our wedding.”
More hugs and congratulations take up the next few minutes. But the aroma of dinner is making me hungry, and if I don’t eat soon, I’ll be sick, and then there will be an even bigger surprise, one I’m not yet ready to share.
When Dag is in the middle of a joke about a ball and chain, Parker holds up his hand. “Hold that thought. Or don’t. We’re going to get some dinner.” He pats Dag’s shoulder as he leads me to the table. “Have a seat, and I’ll get you a plate.”
“Thank you.” I ease onto the bench, hoping the nausea will stay at bay.
Goldie drops down next to me. “I’m so sorry about Dag. He truly thinks he’s funny.”
“It’s okay.” I pay close attention so I can see if Parker is right about Goldie liking Dag.
“He’ll be thirty-five in two months, and he still acts like a teen.” She shakes her head. “I’ve tried to tell him.” She watches him across the room as he chats with the other guys. And maybe Parker is right. There is a bit of sparkle in her eyes when she talks about him and when she watches him. How have I never noticed?
What else haven’t I noticed?
Parker slides a plate of food in front of me. “I’ll be right back with a drink. Start eating.”
I dig in, needing to fill the void in my stomach.
