Several brothers are working on bikes in the garage, others lounging at the bar.
The energy shifts when we walk in—something about the way we're all grinning probably gives it away.
"Family meeting in five," I called out. "Someone get the women."
"What's going on?" Tor asks, abandoning his bike.
"You'll see," I say, trying to keep the smile off my face.
People gather quickly, curious about the impromptu meeting.
Meghan appears with flour in her hair—she must have been doing something in the kitchen.
Starla comes from the office. Others drift in from various corners of the compound.
"What's this about?" Runes asks once everyone's assembled.
I stand, pulling Dasha up with me. The girls flank us, practically bouncing.
"We have an announcement," I start.
Cali explodes, unable to contain herself one second longer. "Daddy and Dasha are getting married!"
The eruption is immediate.
Meghan screams so loud I think glasses might break.
Women swarm Dasha to see the ring.
Brothers pound my back hard enough to bruise.
The girls are swept up in hugs, basking in the attention.
"About fucking time!" someone shouts.
"Finally!" This from multiple sources.
"Let me see that ring!" Meghan demands, grabbing Dasha's hand. "Oh my God, it's perfect!"
"The girls helped pick it," Dasha tells her, pulling our daughters close.
"Of course they did," Starla says warmly. "This is a family affair."
"When's the wedding?" someone calls out.
"Soon as possible," I answer, pulling Dasha close. "Don't want to give her time to change her mind."
"Like that would happen," she says, kissing me to hoots and hollers.
"Bachelor party!" Tor announces. "I'm planning it. It's going to be epic."
"Strippers?" someone suggests.
"Kids present!" multiple women scold.
"What's a stripper?" Cali asks innocently.
"Someone who takes paint off furniture," I say quickly. "Very boring job."