Page 10 of Reckless Vow

If only the conversation in the room would finally move to the most pressing issue.

While they continue to yap away, I consider my options.

Is there a place online where I can find a husband? Like mail-order brides? There might be some sort of a modern alternative. Or I can order a bride. That would upset Granny’s need for tradition.

The thought almost cheers me up. It would if the man I pretend is not here wasn’t staring at me.

Or I think he is. While he converses with the others, I can feel the burn of his attention.

“I’d suggest that you”—Dominic looks at Paris and Sydney—“since you’re living together anyway, get hitched at the city clerk’s office now to comply with the paperwork and then have the weddings you planned later.” He looks at London. “I got us an appointment at city hall already.”

She grins at him. “I love you.”

Finally, my turn.

“Great, and now that we’ve resolved the issues that weren’t pressing since you were going to get married anyway, can we focus on me?” My tongue trips a bit.

Just how much of that wine did I have? And shouldn’t alcohol cheer me up?

Nobody rushes to offer suggestions. It doesn’t feel like my family is looking for a solution. The silence screams of their pity and my desperation.

But someone is thinking of a solution, and his words floor me.

“I’ll marry you.”

Chapter4

Baldo

What the fuck is wrong with me? Did I just offer to marry my stepsister?

Everyone seems to be stunned to silence. Well, I think Brook gasped. Or maybe it was my mother.

I can’t look at them.

It’s the worst idea ever.

Someone should protest. Immediately. It’s not like I can squeal “just kidding.” That would be cruel.

But someone needs to point out how stupid this is.

What was I thinking?

I wasn’t.

Visiting home, seeing everyone, meeting the new members of my family… It’s all overwhelmed me way more than I expected.

WhatwasI expecting?

An emotional reunion with my mother. That’s what.

I was hoping to hug my mom, and if I got lucky avoid my stepdad, Micah.

I didn’t expect a happy reunion. I didn’t count on all the memories rushing in the minute I stepped foot on the property.

I was so unsure about actually ringing the bell that I climbed the fence. Really mature. In my thousand-dollar suit, no less.

Just like the old times. The climb. Not the suit.

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