Page 81 of Worship Him

"You've really outdone yourself," I say, popping a piece of sushi into my mouth.

He leans back, looking pleased with himself. "I aim to please. You deserve all this and more."

We chat and laugh as we eat, the conversation flowing as easily as the champagne. The moon rises higher in the inky black sky, casting a silver glow over the city, and Adam stands and offers me his hand.

"Dance with me?" he asks.

I take his hand, letting him pull me close as we sway to the music. As the song ends, he steps back, his eyes intense.

"Destiny," he says, his voice low and serious. "I've made a lot of mistakes in my life, but loving you was never one of them."

My breath catches as he drops to one knee, pulling out a small velvet box. Inside nestles a stunning diamond ring, accented with rubies.

"Will you marry me?" he asks, his voice steady and sure. "Again?"

Tears spring to my eyes as I nod, unable to speak for a moment. Finally, I manage to whisper, "Yes. A thousand times, yes."

Adam slides the ring onto my finger, then stands and pulls me into a passionate kiss. As we break apart, both breathless, I can't help but laugh.

"What's so funny?" he asks, raising an eyebrow.

I grin, holding up my hand to admire the ring. "I was just thinking... we really do get to have our happily ever after."

He pulls me close again, his lips brushing my ear. "Baby, this is just the beginning."

31

DESTINY

Istand in front of the full-length mirror, smoothing down my dress for the hundredth time. It's a simple, elegant gown I designed myself—off-white with delicate lace detailing. My hands are shaking slightly, but it's not from nerves. It's pure excitement.

"You look stunning, Des," Jackie says, adjusting my tiara. "Adam's gonna lose it when he sees you."

I grin at her reflection. "Thanks, Jackie. For everything. I don't know how I would've made it through this past year without you and Barrett."

"That's what friends are for," she replies, giving my shoulder a squeeze. "Now, let's get you married. Again."

We step out of the room and into the hallway of the small, rustic venue Adam and I chose for our intimate ceremony. As we walk, I spot Barrett holding Avery, who's dressed in an adorable white onesie with a tulle skirt.

"There's my girl," I coo, reaching for her. Avery giggles, her tiny hands grasping at my face.

"Careful now," Barrett warns, "don't want to mess up your makeup before the big moment."

I laugh, kissing Avery's chubby cheek. "Worth it."

The music starts, and my heart races. Jackie takes Avery, and Barrett offers me his arm. "Ready?" he asks.

I take a deep breath and nod. "More than ever."

I would have loved to have my dad walk me down the aisle again, but he and my mom took an impromptu vacation to Asia at the worst possible time.

Well, Barrett is a fantastic replacement and this wedding is more of a symbolic affair, so I’m not too disappointed.

We step into the small garden where our guests are gathered and my eyes lock onto Adam. He stands tall and proud at the end of the aisle, looking devastatingly handsome in his tailored suit.

When we reach him, Barrett places my hand in Adam's. "Take care of her," he says, his voice gruff with emotion.

Adam's grip tightens on mine. "Always," he promises.

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