Page 62 of The Boss's Hideaway Baby

“Your mommy is going to become my wife today.” My heart races at the thought. “Can you believe it?”

Grace doesn’t respond, of course, and I’m a little sad that she won’t be able to remember this day. I don’t want to wait any longer to marry Maria, though. I’ve lived decades without her as my wife, and I don’t want to spend another day that way.

I walk back towards the cabin, noticing how many cars are parked outside. It seems everyone we know has come to Montauk to celebrate our wedding day. The excitement in the air is palpable.

“Mommy’s going to look so beautiful when she walks down the aisle,” I continue. “And you, my love, will get to watch it all from the front row.”

I look down at Grace. Her brown eyes are wide, taking in everything around her. Just like her mother, she never misses a thing.

As I approach the cabin door, it suddenly swings open, revealing Kelsey. Her eyes widen at the sight of me.

“You shouldn’t be here!” She plants her hands on her hips. “You can’t see the bride before the wedding!”

“Relax, Kelsey. It’s just a superstition.”

“Tradition or not, you shouldn’t risk it!” Her brow furrows.

It’s too late, though. Maria appears in the yard, dressed in a silk robe that hugs her curves. Her brown eyes light up upon seeing us, and she rushes over.

“Nathan, what are you doing here?” She tries not to smile, but it’s impossible. Her lips are turned upwards, her eyes dancing at the sight of me.

“Couldn’t wait any longer to see my beautiful bride,” I confess, my heart swelling with love for her.

Maria gives me a big kiss, her mouth warm and inviting. The taste of her sends shivers down my spine, and I know I’d break any tradition just to be near her. She steps away and scoops Grace into her arms, showering our daughter with affection.

“All right, lovebirds, break it up.” Kelsey claps her hands, trying to regain control of the situation. “Maria, you need to get into your dress.”

“Fine.” Maria sighs, her eyes locked on mine. “But I’ll see you soon, okay?” She hands Grace back to me and kisses me once more before slipping back into the cabin.

Kelsey gives me a stern look. “Now, go to your spot. We’re starting soon. And no more sneaking around!”

I chuckle and nod my agreement before heading down the road toward the beach. My heart flutters with anticipation as I imagine Maria walking down the sandy aisle toward me. As I reach the beach, I’m greeted by the sight of our friends and family gathered near the water’s edge. The altar, adorned with delicate seashells and soft, flowing fabrics, stands waiting for us to begin our new life together.

It might seem odd that we’re having a wedding so early in the morning, but Maria and I didn’t want to disrupt Grace’s schedule. Even on a day like today, her well-being is the most important thing to us. An early morning ceremony means that she’ll be awake for it.

As far as our guests, we were able to book them all rooms at the hotel right by the beach, so everything has worked out. The day is perfect.

As I stand there, taking in the scene, my thoughts drift back to the first time I met Maria, when she came in for a job interview. She was beautiful and smart, but I never let my thoughts stray any further than acknowledging that.

I never could have imagined our journey would bring us here, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Our love has grown stronger with each passing day, and now, with Grace in our lives, I feel like the luckiest man in the world.

As I approach the gathering of friends and family, Corey spots me and strides over with a wide grin. He pulls me into a side embrace, thumping my back in typical best-man fashion.

“Today’s the big day, man!” He pulls away to tickle Grace’s cheek. His excitement is infectious, and I can’t help but return his grin.

“Thanks, Corey.” I cast a glance at his new wife, Michelle, who stands nearby, beaming. “You two set a high standard with your wedding.”

Michelle laughs and gives Corey a loving nudge. “We’re just happy to share this special day with you guys.” She glances around at the gathering crowd, a mix of coworkers and friends we’ve made since moving to Montauk. “Everyone’s here to celebrate your love.”

A familiar warmth fills my chest at her words, and I nod my appreciation.

“Here.” Michelle takes Grace from my arms. “I’ll take her to the front row.”

I watch as she carries my daughter to Maria’s mom, who takes the baby gently in her arms. The ceremony is about to begin.

“Ready?” Corey asks as we take our places at the altar. I look down at the sand beneath my feet, feeling its warmth, and then out to the ocean waves crashing in the distance. The salty breeze tugs at my hair, and I take a deep breath, savoring the moment.

“More than ready,” I answer, meaning it with every fiber of my being.

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