Page 44 of Love, A Curvy Girl's Guide

As for goodbyes, I’m grateful we had that time together in the hospital and that you brought your young man. That boy loves you, Haley. I saw it in his eyes long before he even realized it himself. But when he came to me, sitting in that uncomfortable chair beside my hospital bed, looking nervous as hell and asking for your hand, I knew without a doubt that he was the right man for you.

He told me he didn’t want to wait, that he couldn’t stand the thought of me not being there. Said he wanted to do it at the hospital if he had to—just so I could walk you down the aisle. That truly meant the world to me, Bug. That’s the kind of man I want taking care of my baby girl.

But, Haley, I don’t need to walk you down the aisle.

Because I plan on walking with you every step of the way for the rest of your life.

I’ll be there when you stand at the altar. I’ll be there when you share your first dance, and those brothers of his tell everybody what terrors the two of you were growing up. I’ll be there when you cut into your wedding cake, and throw your bouquet. I wouldn’t miss that for the world.

I’ll be there when you and Ian welcome your first child into this world—when you hold that tiny miracle in your arms and finally understand the depth of love I’ve always had for you. I’ll be there for every scraped knee, every late-night cry, every moment you feel like you can’t do it—because, sweetheart, you can. And you will. And I’ll be so damn proud of you.

I’ll be there during the good times—the belly laughs, the midnight kitchen dances, the quiet moments of love so strong it takes your breath away. And I’ll be there during the bad times, too. When life throws you curveballs, when things feel impossible, when you miss me so much you can hardly breathe—I’ll be there, Haley. Right beside you, always.

You were the best thing that ever happened to me. From the moment I held you in my arms, I knew my purpose in this world was to love you, to guide you, and to make sure you knew how incredible you are. And now, I need you to do something for me.

Live.

Love Ian with your whole heart. Laugh loudly. Take risks. Make mistakes and learn from them. Be stubborn and kind and brave, just like you’ve always been. And when you need me, just close your eyes, sweetheart. I’ll be there.

I love you, my sweet girl. Always.

Dad.

By the timeshe finished reading, tears streamed down her face, landing in silent splashes against the letter. Her chest ached, her breath coming in uneven gasps.

Ian didn’t speak. He didn’t try to tell her it would be okay, didn’t offer hollow reassurances. Instead, he took the letter from her shaking hands, set it carefully on the nightstand, and pulled her into his arms.

Haley sobbed against his chest, gripping his shirt like it was the only thing keeping her grounded. And maybe it was.

Minutes passed, or maybe hours—time didn’t matter. Ian held her through it all, his hands running up and down her back, his lips pressing soft kisses into her hair. He didn’t rush her grief. He let her feel it, let her break apart in the safety of his arms.

Eventually, the sobs slowed, her breathing evening out into hiccupping gasps. She pulled back slightly, her red-rimmed eyes meeting Ian’s.

“You asked him to marry me?” she whispered, her voice raw.

Ian nodded, his fingers gently brushing a tear from her cheek. “Yeah. I wanted him there, Hales. I wanted him to see us get married, to be part of it.” He swallowed hard. “I’m so sorry he couldn’t be.”

Haley shook her head, a sad, watery smile tugging at her lips. “He will be.” She placed a hand over her heart, her father’s words echoing in her mind. “He’ll be with us—he promised. Every step of the way.”

Ian pressed his forehead to hers, his hands cradling her face like she was something precious. “You’re incredible, you know that?”

She let out a shaky laugh, her lips trembling. “Not even close.”

He kissed her softly, slowly, like a promise. “You are to me.”

Haley closed her eyes, leaning into him. The pain was still there, the grief still heavy. But wrapped in Ian’s arms, she knew—somehow, someway—she was going to be okay.

EPILOGUE

The forest glowed under the soft afternoon sun, golden light filtering through the canopy of trees. Twinkling fairy lights were strung between the branches, their soft glow adding to the magic of the moment. Wildflowers lined the natural aisle, the scent of lavender and jasmine thick in the warm air. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves, carrying whispered blessings through the trees.

Haley stood in the packhouse, staring at her reflection.This was it.Her wedding day.

The dress was everything she had wanted—elegant yet simple, with delicate lace along the neckline and sleeves, hugging her curves before flowing into a soft train. Her hair was styled in loose waves, tiny pearl pins scattered throughout.

She smoothed her hands down the fabric, breathing in deeply.

It was perfect.

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