Page 15 of The Mountain Man's Mail Order Surprise
Gia nods, but I can see the worry in her expression. She's scared of being judged, of not being accepted. I get it. After years of being made to feel like she wasn't good enough, the thought of facing my family probably feels overwhelming.
"What if we start smaller?" I suggest. "Just Silas and Jordyn first. Let you get used to the idea of people being on your side."
"You'd do that?"
"Sweetheart, I'd do anything to make you comfortable. This is about you feeling welcome, not about showing you off like a prize."
Though I do want to show her off. I want everyone to see what an incredible woman I've found, how lucky I am that she chose me.
"Okay," she says finally. "Silas and Jordyn first. Then we'll see about the rest."
"Perfect." I finish my omelet and reach for my coffee. "Now, let's talk about the fun stuff. What kind of wedding do you want?"
"I told you, simple is fine."
"Simple doesn't have to mean forgettable." I lean back in my chair, studying her face. "Come on, humor me. If you could have any kind of wedding, what would it look like?"
She's quiet for a moment, and I can see her wrestling with whether to share something vulnerable.
"I used to think about getting married on a mountaintop," she admits finally. "Somewhere with a view that goes on forever. In a simple dress, with a simple ceremony, but surrounded by people who actually cared about us being happy."
"That sounds perfect."
"Really?"
"Really. I know just the spot too. Up at Iron Vine Estate, there's this overlook that shows the whole valley. Sunset views that'll make you cry."
"The estate your cousins inherited?"
"The same one. And before you ask, yes, they'd be honored to host our wedding. Family is everything to the Kanes."
She smiles, and for the first time since she arrived, it reaches her eyes completely. "A mountain wedding sounds pretty perfect."
"Then that's what we'll do." I stand and start clearing our plates. "But first, we make it legal. Can't have you changing your mind and running off on me."
"I'm not running anywhere." The certainty in her voice makes something settle in my chest. "I'm exactly where I want to be."
"Good. Because I plan on spending the rest of my life making sure you never regret ending up on my doorstep."
"Even when I'm huge and cranky and can't see my feet?"
"Even then." I wrap my arms around her from behind, my hands settling on her belly. "Can't wait to watch you get rounder with our baby."
She leans back against me, and I can feel some of the tension leaving her body. "This is really happening, isn't it?"
"This is really happening." I press a kiss to her temple. "And it's going to be incredible."
My phone buzzes again, this time with a call from Silas. I consider ignoring it, but legal advice might be useful right about now.
"Kane."
"Rosco. I did some research on those services we discussed last week. If you're serious about pursuing that option, I have some recommendations."
I glance at Gia, who's listening with obvious curiosity. "Actually, the situation has evolved. I need to schedule an appointment. Today, if possible."
"Oh?"
"I need to discuss marriage licenses, asset transfers, custody law, and restraining orders. Possibly all at the same time."
