Page 51 of Claiming My Cocky Boss

Carla turned to me, signaling it was time to share our vows. I took a deep breath, feeling the emotion rise within me as I spoke.

“Liam, when I first met you, I could never have dreamed I’d be standing here today, in this beautiful cabin we built together, surrounded by our closest friends. You entered my life during a time when I didn’t even know I needed someone as extraordinary as you. You taught me that true love doesn’t diminish our independence; it magnifies it, making us stronger together.

“You’ve been my anchor, guiding me to grow in ways I never imagined possible, both in my heart and in my career. With you, I've discovered a partner who believes in me and who lifts me up even when I falter. As I stand here with you, I feel an overwhelming joy about our journey ahead. I can’t wait to weave our dreams into reality, starting with this magical moment and every beautiful moment that follows. Together, forever, is just the beginning.”

Liam’s eyes softened as he reached for my hands, taking them in his own as he began his vows.

“Mia,” he said softly, his voice laced with emotion, “before I met you, I lived in a whirlwind, convinced I had all the answers and that my life in Dallas was complete. But then you entered my world and illuminated something I hadn’t even realized was missing. You taught me that home isn’t merely a place—it’s a beautiful bond between two hearts. You are my home, Mia. You’ve shown me the true depth of love and how it transforms a man. Your strength and independence inspire me every day, and I admire the way you bravely face whatever life throws at you. I can hardly express how grateful I am to share this journey with you as my wife. Together, I know we can create a lifetime filled with love and adventure.”

I could feel my eyes welling up with tears, my heart full as Liam finished speaking. This moment, standing here in thecabin we had dreamed of, felt so real, so right. Everything about this day was perfect—small, simple, and full of love, just the way we wanted it.

Carla gave us a knowing smile before she spoke again. “Mia, Liam, by the power vested in me as a notary and justice of the peace, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Liam, you may kiss your bride.”

Liam leaned in, his lips brushing mine softly at first, and then with a deeper tenderness that made me feel like the world around us had disappeared. As we kissed, I could hear Tessa clapping softly, and Derek letting out a quiet cheer.

When we pulled away, I caught sight of Daisy, now wagging her tail furiously as if she were celebrating along with us. I laughed, bending down to give her a scratch behind the ears. “Guess we’re all in this together, huh?” I said softly.

Liam grinned, pulling me back into his arms. “It’s official. We’re all a happy family.”

Behind the small rustic bar nestled in the corner of our recently finished cabin's spacious great room, I arranged an assortment of trays laden with delectable dishes. With anticipation shimmering in his eyes, Liam carefully selected the champagne bottle we had been cherishing for this special occasion. With a smooth twist, the cork popped, and the fizzy sound of bubbles filling the glasses added a light, celebratory touch to the moment.

“Perfect pour,” he said with a grin, handing me a glass. I took it, and our fingers brushed, sending a spark of excitement through me. Carla, standing nearby, smiled warmly at the two of us. “You two sure know how to make your wedding day intimate and unforgettable.”

I laughed, taking a sip of the champagne. “It’s hard not to with a setting like this.”

Tessa knelt down, giving Daisy a gentle scratch behind the ears before looking up at me with a bright smile. “I’m so happy for you and Liam, Mia,” she said, her voice soft with emotion. “This is exactly the kind of day you both deserve.”

I smiled back, reflecting her kindness. “Thank you, Tessa. I’m so glad you’re here. How’s everything going at the park? I know you’ve been busy.”

Tessa straightened, brushing off her dress, the fringe swaying with the movement. “It’s been great. I’m really growing into the chief ranger role, but... I still miss having you around. It’s not quite the same without you.”

I nodded, touched by her words. “I miss it too, but I couldn’t be happier with where life’s taken me. And seeing you thrive in the position makes it all worth it.”

Her eyes sparkled with pride as she gave me a small, knowing smile. “Thanks, Mia. It’s a big job, but I love it, especially now with the museum addition. Still, nothing beats moments like this—standing here, watching you and Liam start this new chapter. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.”

Derek, standing with a more reserved smile, nodded. “It’s good to be here. Things are looking up for me too. I’ve been attending a support group for my gambling addiction... and, well, I feel hopeful about the future.” He glanced at Liam with a sense of gratitude. “Thanks for believing in me.”

Liam poured another glass, offering it to Derek with a nod. “You’re doing the work, Derek. That’s what counts.”

As the celebration proceeded, a sense of lightness filled the room. It was one of those quiet, perfect moments where everything felt in balance—our lives, our love, and the friends who had become family.

“Speaking of important people,” Liam said, turning to Derek with a grin, “Cory’s going to be here tomorrow. He couldn’t make the wedding, but he didn’t want to miss out on our fishing trip.”

I laughed softly and added, “Of course, he never misses a chance to fish.”

“Especially with our new boat,” Liam added.

“I’m looking forward to that trip.” Derek raised his glass in a salute.

I could already picture the four of us out on the water, the sun glistening on the lake. It felt like the perfect way to celebrate this new chapter in our lives with our closest friends nearby.

As we clinked glasses with our small circle, toasting to the future, I felt a deep sense of peace settle over me. Everything had fallen into place, just as it was meant to.

As the soft light of early evening settled over the cabin, I hugged Tessa goodbye, feeling a swell of emotion. She’d been my best friend for so long, and seeing her so happy filled me with pride.

“You did it, Mia. But I need to go. I have a date with Brit tonight,” she whispered in my ear as she pulled me in tight. “But I’m so proud of you.”

I smiled, squeezing her one last time. “I couldn’t have done it without your support. Have fun with Brit. You’re next.”

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