Page 103 of Cross My Heart

Jameson was at the center of our family’s circle at the bar, laughing and talking. No matter what things he’d seen at work, he could easily brush it off and be the charming guy everyone loved. “I wonder if he’s hiding what he’s going through.”

“Or you’re imagining problems where there aren’t any.” Aiden’s voice was soft and reasonable.

I relaxed in his arms. “Is it wrong that I want all my siblings to be happy like I am?”

Aiden pulled back slightly to look at me. “Your brothers might be a lost cause, but Daphne is settled.”

I laughed. “You’re probably right. My brothers don’t have any interest in what we have.”

Aiden fell silent for a few seconds while we swayed to the music. Then he said hesitantly, “I wanted to let you know that I’ve thought about expanding our family. We have our wedding in December, and we’re not getting any younger.”

My heart rate picked up. “Are you serious?”

“Our house will be finished in the spring or summer, and we’ll be moving. It’s the perfect time.”

“I wasn’t sure if you were ready.”

He’d been talking to a therapist about his parents, and Marley attended with him from time to time. But I didn’t ask what they discussed. I just knew he felt more confident about himself and the boundary he’d set with his parents.

His gaze rested on mine. “I’m not my parents. I’m going to be a good dad.”

“You’re going to be great. Should we practice in the meantime?”

“How much longer do we have to stick around?” His hand gripped my hip tighter, and I knew he was anxious to be alone.”

“It’s our party.”

His head dipped, and his lips hovered over my temple. “So not much longer?”

I tipped my head to the side, enjoying teasing him. “The anticipation makes everything so much better.”

Aiden’s gaze was intent. “I’ve waited for you since we were eighteen. I can wait a little longer.”

I wrapped my arms around his neck, bringing my body flush against his. “That’s what I was hoping for.”

Then he kissed me, and I didn’t care who saw. I was happiest here in his arms, in the inn we were renovating. We were building a future together, and I couldn’t be more excited for it.

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