She laughs. “At least his heart was in the right place.”
“Mason is the best. And check out that massive rock on your hand,” I say, holding up her hand.
She giggles. “I’ve never been happier. Thank you for always being here for me. And that’s why I’d love for you to be my maid of honor. I had to ask you now before Mason tries to steal you as his best woman.”
Here come the tears again. Bless the person who invented waterproof mascara. I’d be surprised if I have any makeup left on my face.
“Of course, I’ll be your maid of honor,” I shriek. We give each other a long hug. And in this moment, I’m overcome with joy. My best friends are getting married, and Cam is here with me. It’s Eliza’s birthday, but I feel like I’ve been given the best gifts.
“As your maid of honor, I have one request,” I say.
She smiles. “Of course you can bring Coach Cam to the wedding.”
“Okay, two requests,” I continue. “Can I be there when you tell your cousin that Carlie King is planning your wedding?”
She lets out a wicked laugh. “Yes, definitely. Mason already contacted her, so it’s official.”
I look up and see Cam waiting for me.
“I think someone wants to talk to you,” she whispers. “And by the way, we start looking for dresses tomorrow.”
“I’m ready.”
“I’ll let you two talk while I go find my fiancé,” she sings before dashing off.
Cam walks over and wraps his arms around me.
“So I’ve been invited to a big family dinner at Eliza’s grandmother’s tomorrow,” he tells me.
“You should go. Those dinners are always entertaining.”
“Maybe we could go together?” he asks.
I smile. “Sure.”
“And speaking of families, I was wondering if I could introduce you to my parents—as my girlfriend.”
My stomach does a flip. I’m thrilled Cam wants to take this step but also nervous about how they’re going to react.
“Yes, if you think they’re ready to meet me.”
Cam’s mother was nice when I met her at the event. Although that day I was just another teacher at the school not the woman who’s replaced Lilly in her son’s life. I’m sure Lilly’s mother will have plenty to say when she finds out.
He shrugs. “I’m not worried about it.”
“Okay, if you’re not worried, then neither am I.” I give him a slow, meaningful kiss.
The party is finally winding down. It was a smashing success, and I’ve never seen Eliza happier. Mason is so relaxed. I’m sure he’s relieved the night is over. And the best part is Caitlin and Dean made an early exit. Caitlin’s probably pouting about sharing the family spotlight. This makes me want to attend every family dinner from now on.
Before we leave, Cam asks to speak to Mason. I watch as they move to the side of the room and talk then Cam holds out his hand and they shake.
“Everything okay?” I ask when they return.
“All good,” Mason says, grabbing Cam’s shoulder. “The coach and I had to discuss a few things.”
I give Mason a tight hug. “Thanks, Mase.”
“Thank you for putting up with me over the past week,” he says.