Page 87 of The Rules We Broke
We got tangled in ribbon and wrapping paper, laughing until our sides hurt. It was probably the most fun I’d ever had wrapping presents.
But it was more than just fun.
At one point, we were sitting on the floor, surrounded by a sea of bright paper and half-tied bows. I looked up and watched him trying—really trying—to make a decent bow.
And I felt it. That overwhelming rush. The kind that fills your chest and makes your heart ache in the best way. He caught me staring and gave me a sheepish look, probably thinking I was about to tease him.
But I didn’t.
I just said, “I love you.”
“I love you more.”
I believed him.
After we finished wrapping the gifts, I realized I still hadn’t bought anything for Brady or Benjamin.
“What do you want for Christmas?” I asked.
He gave me that look. “You know what I want.”
“A puppy it is, then,” I teased.
He pulled me onto his lap, wrapping his arms around me.
“The only soft, warm creature I want on my lap is you.”
I snuggled in closer. “I don’t know . . . think how happy you’d make Caroline if you had a puppy at your house.”
He grinned. “I think she’d be happier if I had an Aunt Ellie at my house.”
I liked the sound of that—being Caroline’s aunt. But I liked the sound of being Brady’s wife even more.
Still, I needed time. Time to be sure Aunt Lu could accept him. Maybe even love him.
Brady seemed to read my thoughts.
“Don’t worry,” he said. “I have a plan to win your aunt over.”
“You shouldn’t underestimate her.”
“And you shouldn’t underestimate how serious I am about making you my wife.”
I didn’t. I knew how sweet and charming Brady could be. But I also knew he didn’t fully grasp the pain his parents had caused Aunt Lu—or how hard she was trying not to let that pain interfere with my happiness. Or his.
Still, despite the uphill battle ahead, OperationGet Aunt Lu to Call Brady by His God-Given Nameofficially launched the next day.
Brady planned to take a half-day off and meet me at the hospital.
I arrived early to make sure Aunt Lu’s hair and makeup were just how she liked them. He wouldn’t win any points if she didn’t feel like she looked her best.
I even brought her new Auburn-blue satin pajamas. They were soft, elegant, and just flashy enough to make her feel like herself again.
I got her as dolled up as I could, considering she was still in a hospital bed. To me, she was beautiful with or without cosmetics. But what mattered most was howshefelt.
Brady arrived around noon. I heard his knock and took a steadying breath before opening the door.
My country boy had transformed into a city gentleman—dark suit, tie perfectly knotted, and holding a stunning gardenia plant. To call him handsome was an understatement.
