Page 52 of The Cousins and the Brunette

His words faded into the background, drowned out by the thundering of my own heartbeat. I found myself lost in a whirlwind of memories—the first time I’d met each of the cousins, the gradual blossoming of our relationships, the challenges we’d faced together, and the love that had grown between us. It seemed impossible that we’d come so far, with me from the harsh streets of New Boston to this moment of pure, unbridled happiness.

Sebastian’s thumb traced gentle circles on the back of my hand. I glanced up at him, drinking in the sight of his handsome face, his expression one of tender affection. To my left, Joel stood tall and proud, his usual intensity softened by a rare smile that made my heart ache with love. And Braxton, ever the charmer, winked at me when he caught my eye, his smile so bright it could have outshone the sun.

The pastor interrupted my reverie. “Then by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband, husband, husband, and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

A cheer erupted from the crowd, but I barely heard it. Sebastian was the first to reach for me, his hands cupping my face with infinite tenderness. His lips met mine in a kiss that was soft and sweet, full of promises for the future. I melted into him, my hands coming to rest on his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath my palms.

Once we parted, Joel stepped forward, his green gaze smoldering with an intensity that made my knees weak. He pulled me close, one hand tangling in my hair and he claimed my lips in a way that spoke of passion and devotion. I clung to him, dizzy with the force of his love, my body tingling from head to toe. He released me and I smiled at Braxton.

Braxton swept me into his arms, his cute grin giving way to a look of pure adoration. His kiss was sweet and heartfelt. I smiled wider against his lips, my heart so full it felt fit to burst.

We broke apart, I was instantly enclosed in a group hug, surrounded by the warmth and love of my new husbands.

“I love you,” I whispered, the words seeming wholly inadequate to express the depth of my feelings. “All of you, so much.”

“And we love you, Brynn.” Sebastian pressed a kiss to my temple.

Joel’s arm tightened around my waist. “More than anything in this world.”

“Or any other world, for that matter.” Braxton slung an arm over my shoulders.

We turned to face our guests, and I caught sight of Marla in the front row, her face alight with happiness. My little sister was bouncing in her seat, ad clapping.

The reception that followed was a whirlwind of music, laughter, and celebration. I danced with each of my husbands in turn, reveling in the unique connection I shared with each of them.

Sebastian led me in a graceful waltz, his movements sure and elegant. As we swayed together, he leaned in close, his breath warm against my ear. “You’ve made me the happiest man alive, Brynn. I promise to spend every day trying to make you just as happy.”

I tilted my face up to his, my heart swelling with love. “You already do,” I whispered, stretching up on my toes to kiss him softly.

Joel’s dance style was more intense, matching the passion that always simmered between us. He held me close, his strong arms guiding me through the steps with surprising grace. “Never thought I’d be the marrying type. But with you, Brynn...it just feels right.”

I laid my head on his chest, listening to the steady thump of his heart. “No, it feels perfect.”

Dancing with Braxton was pure joy. He twirled me around the floor with exuberant energy. “You know,” he said, dipping me dramatically, “I always knew you’d end up as part of our family. Though I have to admit, I didn’t quite picture it happening like this.”

I giggled and he pulled me back up, my cheeks flushed. “Life has a funny way of surprising us, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

As the night wore on, I found myself constantly surrounded by love and family. Kay hugged me tightly, her young face shining with happiness. “I’m so glad you’re happy, Brynn. You deserve this all of this.”

I blinked back tears, pulling my little sister close. “We both do, Kay. And we’ve finally found it.”

Once the reception began to wind down, I was drawn back to my husbands. We stood together, fingers entwined, surrounded by the love of our family and friends. The future stretched out before us, full of endless possibilities. Sebastian squeezed my hand gently.

“Ready to start our new life together?” Joel’s arm slipped around my waist, pulling me close.

Braxton’s trademark grin was softer now. “I’m ready for our honeymoon suite shenanigans. Last one there has to give the first massage!”

I looked at each of them in turn, my heart so full of love it felt like it might overflow. “Race you there, boys. Winner gets to pick the first position.”

As we made our way out of the ballroom, showered with rose petals and well-wishes, I felt a sense of completeness I’d never known before. The harsh realities of New Boston seemed a distant memory now, replaced by the warmth and security of my new chosen family.

Joel scooped me up into his arms when we reached the threshold. “I’ve got a head start on that massage, darling.”

I wrapped my arms around his neck, breathing in his intoxicating scent. “Mmm, I might just let you win this one.”

Sebastian chuckled, his fingers trailing along my bare arm. “Don’t count me out just yet. I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve.”

Braxton darted ahead, calling over his shoulder, “Catch me if you can, slowpokes!”

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