Page 105 of Unexpected
“I think we’re well past the point of no return,” I teased. “But I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
“Okay. Preston, you and the photographer can head downstairs. Take your place at the front like we rehearsed.”
He nodded then turned to me. “I’ll be waiting for you.”
When I reached the bottom of the stairs, Sophia was already there. Juliana handed me my bouquet with a watery smile, and I took a deep breath. She spoke into her headset, and then it was time.
The doors opened to reveal the dark-paneled club I remembered, but it had been transformed. Chairs flanked a central aisle, and white flowers perfumed the space, while candles cast a warm glow. It was romantic and sophisticated, yet relaxed all at the same time.
Family and friends smiled as we passed, including Sam and Indy, but I only had eyes for one person—Preston. He stood at the altar, hands clasped before him and a grin that split his face. After Sophia “gave me away,” we recited our vows. The entire time, I felt as if I were living a dream or someone else’s life. And when we were pronounced husband and wife, well, I didn’t think I’d ever been so happy.
Preston scooped Sophia into his arms, carrying her down the aisle as he held my hand. After we’d posed for some family pictures, it was time for dinner and dancing. Though we’d kept some traditional wedding elements, we’d ditched others. There were no bridesmaids, no groomsmen, and there would be no tossing of the garter.
The food had just been served when Hunter stood, clinking a fork against his glass to get everyone’s attention.
“Preston may have opted out of having a best man, but we all know who he would have chosen.” With his hand still wrapped around the microphone, he pointed at himself, and everyone laughed. “You know, when Preston started working as a manny, I gave him so much shit.”
“When did you stop giving me shit for it?” Preston asked, drawing another wave of laughter.
Hunter waved a hand through the air, his movements loose from the alcohol. “But I have to say, after watching Sophia for a day—love you, girl—I do not know how he did it. And—” he turned to Preston “—I have a newfound respect for you.
“You are an incredible man. I’ve watched you overcome so many obstacles. And I’m honored to call you my friend. Alexis—you’re good for him. And I wish you both so much happiness. So please raise your glass to toast the bride and groom.”
Everyone lifted their glasses, and I raised my glass of sparkling water.
“To Alexis and Preston—health, wealth, and happiness.”
“Health, wealth, and happiness,” everyone repeated.
Dinner was delicious, and the cake…the cake was the same tiramisu I’d tasted the night of our first date. Though the club had made it gluten free so Sophia could enjoy it as well. The dessert was just as good as I remembered, and this time, I didn’t hesitate when Preston raised his fork to my lips. I licked off the excess cream, noticing the way his eyes darkened.
“Keep doing that,” he said. “And we’ll be leaving our reception early.”
“Tempting.” I smirked. “I just hope I don’t pass out on our wedding night.” I patted my belly, knowing that I tired more easily now that I was pregnant. And today had been a big day.
“Don’t worry.” He grinned, smoothing his hand up my thigh. I tried to keep my expression neutral even as my breathing quickened. I had a flashback to the last time we were here. “I promise to keep things interesting.”
“Was that part of our vows?” I teased. “Spice up the sex life?”
“No, but it should be.” He removed his hand, and I immediately missed his touch.
I laughed. “Deal.”
“Now…” He stood, offering me his hand. “I believe I owe you a dance, my beautiful wife.”
“I believe you do, my handsome husband,” I said, allowing him to lead me to the dance floor.
As he twirled me around, I saw the faces of friends and family. Juliana, Lauren, and Harper, but also, Preston’s friends and even his parents. I’d been worried they’d freak out when they found out about us, but they’d only ever been supportive. They didn’t seem bothered about our age difference or the fact that he’d been Sophia’s nanny. And they adored Sophia, doting on her and giving her the type of love only grandparents could.
Before I’d met Preston, my life was perfect—at least, from the outside looking in. I had money and success, but I was lonely. Perhaps even more than I’d realized. It wasn’t until Preston showed me what I was missing that I knew what I really wanted—a partner.
Someone who would be there, cheering me on when I was struggling. Someone to celebrate the highs and commiserate the lows. Someone to love, and who loved me in return. And that was what I’d discovered in him.
He picked up Sophia, holding her in one arm as he wrapped his other around me. I smiled up at him, pressing my lips to his, with our child fluttering in my stomach. And I knew that no matter my age or what challenges life threw my way, I didn’t have to do it alone. Because I knew without a doubt that he would be at my side, every step of the way.
Sophia dropped her head against his shoulder, and the three of us swayed to the music.
“What three things are you grateful for?” I asked Preston.
