Page 182 of Lavender Lake
“No, you didn’t,” Cas agreed. “I’m sorry we weren’t upfront about our relationship.”
“That’s my fault,” I said. “I asked Cas to keep it quiet until after the wedding. I had no idea Amber would—anyway, I’m sorry too.”
Declan shook his head. “Don’t apologize, Salem. Hadley told me why you kept the news a secret. Still, it would’ve been nice to be clued in. Then we could’ve had double the celebration.”
I looked at Hadley.
She smiled. “Told ya. We would’ve been fine with an extra dose of happiness.”
I glanced at Muddy, and then at Dad. “So I guess that’s it then. We’re all good?”
“No, there’s more,” Dad said. “Your grandmother and I gave Hadley and Declan acreage on the ranch to build their house. When you officially get engaged, we’ll do the same for you. But not until I see a ring on that finger. You understand?”
I raised my brows. “Yes, oh traditional one, I understand.”
“Don’t worry, sir. I’ll wear her down.” Cas shot me a wink.
“Speaking of engagements, why don’t you till your own soil?” I said to Dad.
“What do you mean?” Dad asked.
“Seriously? Jane, Dad. It’s not right that you’ve had the woman move in without the promise of marriage and a future. In fact, living under the same roof without the same last name is a little hypocritical, don’t you think?”
Muddy cackled. “She’s got you there, Connor.”
“We’re not talking about me,” Dad said.
“Let’s talk about you,” Hadley said with a grin. “I think next spring would be a great time for you and Jane to tie the knot.”
“It’ll give him time to recover so he can stand at the altar,” I agreed.
“Wait a second—” Dad interjected.
“What do you think, Muddy?” I asked. “You good with a spring wedding?”
“Perfect. We might have to do it inside though. Rainy season and whatnot,” she said.
Dad rubbed his head. “Are you all finished?”
“For now,” I said with a laugh.
Hadley took Dad’s free hand and gave it a squeeze. “This is our way of giving you our blessing.”
Dad looked at Hadley, and then at me.
I nodded. “She’s right.”
“Well, shit,” Dad stated. “I better shop for a ring.”
“You’re still awake,” Cas said from the doorway of the connecting bathroom.
I looked at him and lowered the book I was reading to my lap and smiled up at him. “It’s nine o’clock.”
He padded over to the bed, and then all but flopped down next to me. “I like coming home to you after a wild night out.”
“And by wild, you mean . . .”
Cas laughed. “One beer with Declan at the Copper Mule.”
