Page 38 of Off-Limits

"Jake," I begin, my voice steady despite the emotions swirling within me. "From the moment we first met, you've challenged me, inspired me, and made me feel like the best version of myself. You've shown me what it truly means to love someone with every fiber of your being, and for that, I will be forever grateful."

I pause, taking a deep breath before continuing. "Today, I stand before you not just as the woman who loves you more than anything in this world—but also as your partner, yourconfidante, and your greatest adventure. We can beat whatever life throws at us and I promise to never give up on us. Not today, not tomorrow, and not for as long as we both shall live."

As I finish my vows, a single tear slips down my cheek, and Jake reaches out to brush it away gently with his thumb.

"Mia," he says, clearing his throat. "You've shown me what it means to love without fear, to trust completely, and to cherish every moment we have together. You are my heart, my soul, and the very air I breathe."

He takes a deep breath before continuing. "Today, I promise to be the husband you deserve. One who supports your dreams, challenges you when needed, and loves you fiercely through every trial and triumph life throws our way. I vow to protect you, honor you, and always make you feel like the most incredible woman in the world, which you truly are."

As Jake finishes speaking, a soft murmur of approval ripples through the congregation, and we both share a private smile before turning back to face the officiant.

"By the power vested in me," she says, "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride."

Jake doesn't need any further encouragement; he leans in immediately, pressing his lips softly against mine in a tender, loving kiss that promises a lifetime of happiness together. As we pull away from each other, I can't help but grin widely at the sight of him—my husband.

"Ladies and gentlemen," the officiant announces, "it is my pleasure to introduce for the very first time... Mr. And Mrs. Morrison."

Jake's Epilogue

12 years later…

Twelve years have passed since that fateful day when Mia and I exchanged our vows, and our lives have transformed in ways we could never have imagined back then. As I sit here on the porch of our sprawling farmhouse, sipping my morning coffee while watching the sunrise paint the sky with hues of orange and pink, I can't help but reflect on just how much things have changed.

The first few years were a whirlwind as we navigated the challenges of married life together. Mia completed her MBA while working part-time at a local marketing firm, eventually landing her dream job as an advertising executive in the city. Meanwhile, my security consulting business took off faster than I could've ever anticipated, requiring me to travel frequently for work.

Despite our busy schedules, we always made sure to prioritize each other and maintain an open line of communication. We knew that trust and honesty were thefoundations of any lasting relationship, and we weren't about to let ours crumble under the weight of careers or distance.

One of the most significant changes in our lives was becoming parents. Our daughter, Macy, arrived six years into our marriage, and she's been the light of our lives ever since. From the moment I held her tiny body against my chest, I knew that nothing would ever be more important to me than being a good father to that precious little girl.

Macy has grown into a vibrant and intelligent girl, with a spirit that reminds me so much of her mother. Her curiosity and energy make us incredibly proud.

Our son, Max, came along five years after Macy, completing our little family unit. He's the spitting image of me, complete with my hazel eyes and dark hair, but he has his mother's warm heart and quick wit.

As I take another sip of my coffee, my thoughts drift back to Ryan. It took some time for him to accept our relationship fully, but eventually, even his protective big brother instincts couldn't compete with the love and happiness Mia and I found together. Nowadays, we're closer than ever before, with Ryan being a constant presence in both mine and Macy's lives.

He even helps me take care of Max, much to our little guy's delight. The three of us spend countless hours together, laughing and bonding as we help Max explore the world around him, teaching him about love, patience, and the joy of being together.

As for Mia and me, our love has only grown stronger with each passing year. We've faced numerous challenges along the way, but through it all, our bond has remained unbreakable. There isn't a day that goes by where I don't thank my lucky stars for having her in my life.

In just a few short hours, we'll be celebrating another milestone together: our twelfth wedding anniversary. Mia has no idea what I have planned for her tonight—a surprise dinner at the very same restaurant where we had our first real date all those years ago—but I can already feel the anticipation bubbling inside me like champagne waiting to be uncorked.

I finish my coffee and stand up, setting the mug down on the table beside me as I prepare to head inside and get ready for work. But before I do, I pause for a moment, taking in the sight of our property stretched out before me—the acres of rolling hills and fields that have become our sanctuary over these past twelve years.

???

As I walk into the kitchen later that day, still lost in thought about how our lives have unfolded over these past twelve years, I'm greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly brewed tea and something sweet baking in the oven. Mia must be making her famous blueberry muffins—my favorite.

I round the corner to find her standing at the counter, her back to me as she pours a cup of tea for herself. She's wearing an apron over her work clothes—a simple pencil skirt and blouse combo that always makes my blood run hotter than it should when she's just going about her day.

As if sensing my presence, Mia turns around, a soft smile playing on her lips as her gaze meets mine. "Hey there," she says warmly, handing me the mug of tea she prepared for me without even asking.

"Morning," I reply, taking the cup from her and leaning in to press a quick kiss to her cheek. "Something smells amazing."

Her smile widens as she turns back to the oven to retrieve the tray of muffins. "I thought I'd make some blueberry muffins for Max's lunchbox. You know how much he loves them."

"I do indeed," I say, watching as she places the hot pan down on a cooling rack before turning her attention back to me. "And I also know that they're not the only reason you are here now."

Mia raises an eyebrow at me, a hint of mischief dancing in her eyes. "Oh yeah? And what might that be?"

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