Page 63 of The Boss's Hideaway Baby

The music begins, soft and romantic, as Kelsey appears on the sand, her bridesmaid dress flowing gracefully with each step she takes down the aisle. Her smile is radiant, and I can’t help but think of how far our friendship has come since that first day we met. She gave me a hard time at first, for sure.

Not that I blame her for it. As Maria’s sister, she’s only doing her job by being protective. Plus I didn’t exactly set a good track record for myself leading up to Maria and I officially getting together.

Since then, though, she’s welcomed me into the family. Though Maria’s parents have also been friendly, it’s been different. Their affection is removed, while what Kelsey offers is that of a real family. Together, she, Maria, and I have built our own brood with Grace. In doing so, the disappointments with both sets of our parents have started to feel far behind us.

My pulse quickens as the music shifts, signaling Maria’s arrival. Guests rise to their feet, craning their necks for a glimpse of the bride.

There she is. The love of my life, looking absolutely stunning in her wedding dress, a vision of beauty framed by the sun and sea.

“Wow,” Corey whispers beside me, echoing my thoughts exactly.

“Tell me about it,” I murmur back, unable to tear my eyes away from Maria.

Every step she takes, every flutter of her dress, etches itself into my memory. I am completely captivated. And as she draws nearer, my heart swells with anticipation, knowing that soon, we will be united as husband and wife.

Maria’s eyes sparkle like the ocean behind her as she gracefully walks down the sand, one delicate step at a time. I can’t help but drink in every detail of her — her soft curls cascading over her shoulders, the way her dress catches the sunlight, and the warmth of her smile that reaches all the way to her eyes.

“Are you ready for this?” Corey whispers beside me, his voice barely audible over the crashing waves and the gentle strumming of the guitar.

“More than anything.” My heart pounds with anticipation.

As Maria reaches the altar, she lets out a long, happy sigh. I know what she’s feeling — satisfaction at the end of a long path. And I feel the same way.

Our fingers intertwine, and I squeeze her hand reassuringly, reveling in the electricity between us.

“Welcome, everyone,” the officiant begins, his voice warm and inviting. “We are gathered here today to celebrate the love between Nathan and Maria…”

Throughout the ceremony, I find myself lost in Maria’s eyes, basking in the love we share. When it’s time to exchange handwritten vows, Maria goes first, her voice carrying the weight of her emotions.

“From the moment we met, I knew there was something special about you, Nathan. Your kindness, your humor, your deep support… you’ve shown me what true love looks like.”

Tears prick my eyes. I’m about to make the most important promise of my life, and I simply can’t wait. When it’s my turn, I take a deep breath and pour my heart out to her.

“Maria, you have changed my life in ways I never thought possible,” I say, my voice steady despite the overwhelming emotion coursing through me. “You’ve given me love, hope, and the greatest gift of all — our beautiful daughter, Grace. I vow to always cherish and protect you, and to be by your side through the good times and the bad.”

As we exchange rings and seal our vows with a passionate kiss, the world around us seems to fade away. It’s just Maria and me, lost in our love for one another.

“Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Colton!” the officiant announces, and the guests erupt into cheers and applause.

Hand in hand, we make our way to the big tent where our reception awaits. The sun casts golden rays across the grass as we step onto the dance floor for our first dance as husband and wife.

“Maria.” I pull her tight to me, but I still can’t get her close enough. “I want you to know that I will never let you go. You and Grace are the best things that have ever happened to me.”

Her eyes twinkle mischievously as she leans in, a playful smile dancing on her lips. “Don’t you mean me, Grace… and the new baby?”

My heart skips a beat, my mind racing to catch up with her words. “Wait — are you saying…?”

She nods, joy radiating from her. “We’re having another baby, Nathan.”

My jaw drops. “But… it’s…”

“I know.” She nods. “It’s soon, and we weren’t planning on it…” She shrugs.

“But I couldn’t be happier.” I kiss her softly. “Are you?”

“Yep.” Her eyes glisten. “I know it’s a lot, but the new baby will be close in age to Grace. I’m only a few weeks along.”

“It’s perfect.” I kiss her again.

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