Page 25 of Mountain Man's Naughty List
A fresh chuckle ripples through the room and tears burn in the back of my eyes, unshed.
“Number three: I’ll build you a fire when you’re cold, and if that doesn’t work, I’ll let you steal my hoodie.
Number four: I’ll take you to tree lightings and singSilent Nightevery Christmas Eve, no matter where we are.
Number five: I’ll love you with every part of my heart the rest of my life.”
My vision blurs. He folds the list and slips it into my hands. “I promise to be the best husband anyone ever had.”
But all I can do is whisper, “That’s the best list you’ve ever made.”
With a few more words, the officiant declares us husband and wife. Thatcher cups my face and kisses me. It’s slow and certain, sealing the promises we’ve made in front of everyone we love.
The crowd cheers and someone starts the first few notes ofWhat Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?
We walk back down the aisle together. My heart is so full it might burst.
Halfway down, I tug his hand to make him stop.
“What’s wrong?” he murmurs.
“Nothing,” I say, smiling. “I just wanted to tell you… I made a list too.”
He raises a brow. “Yeah?”
“Up first,” I say, tipping my head toward the doorway arching in mistletoe, “kiss under the mistletoe.”
He laughs, that low rumble that still makes my knees weak, and pulls me close. When our lips meet, the crowd cheers again, and the bells chime outside.
It’s Christmas Eve, and this time, I know exactly what’s on the list.
Forever.
