Page 28 of The Hero's Bride
“I’m glad he rescued Vivienne then. She can make the darkest situations seem brighter.”
“I have a feeling we’re all exactly where we’re meant to be. Well, maybe not Sully. At least not yet.”
“Is everything okay?” Both of her hands landed on his chest, and he wrapped his arms around her shoulders.
“He’s fine. Just got a phone call from our lieutenant commander in California, though. He’s being assigned to the Virginia SEAL Team to help with an upcoming mission. He’s still going to fly with us to Virginia tomorrow, but he’ll need to go right to the Navy base.”
She tilted her head, brows drawing together. “Does he need anything before he leaves? Should we get him some snacks to take with him?”
He laughed again, and the realization that he hadn’t been this happy in a long time struck him. “He’d appreciate you thinking of him, but he’ll have everything he needs for the mission packed in his rucksack by the time they fly out. He’s catching up with his family and getting some rest, so it’s just me and you tonight. We can stay in the suite or if you’d prefer, we can go out to dinner somewhere.”
She bit her bottom lip, but not before a bashful smile teased her lips.
“What is it?” he said swaying gently from side to side as he held on to her. “Just tell me and I’ll make it happen.”
“Jude mentioned that the suite has a private pool upstairs. I’ve been swimming in a river and in the ocean, but never an actual swimming pool.”
“I’d love to go swimming with you. There are a few shops down in the lobby. While we’re grabbing you some clothes for the flight tomorrow, we can pick up a bathing suit, then come back up here.”
Her lips came together in a grimace, and she shook her head. “If it’s only me and you I can swim without the suit. I trust you.”
He stopped his easy sway and gave her statement his full focus. “Grateful you trust me, and I promise you’ll always be safe with me, but the clothes and the suit are a matter of necessity. Iron’s home is right on the water, and I want to make sure you have everything you need if you and Vivienne decide to go for a swim or to lie out on the sand. I’m not exactly prepared for the beach either, so I’ll pick something up, too, if it’ll make you feel better.”
She avoided his gaze, opened her mouth to speak, then closed it again.
“What are you thinking?”
She blew her cheeks out, released a quick breath, and took a step back. He much preferred to have Thalia in his arms but understood she might need space if she was feeling vulnerable.
“You’ve already bought me the most beautiful dress I’ve ever owned. This ring that I can’t stop looking at. Not only because it’s beautiful, but because of the kindness behind it. I don’t want you to see me as someone you have to provide for. I want to make my own way and contribute somehow.” Her shoulders slumped. He hated the idea that she felt like less. Inadequate because she needed some help getting on her feet.
“And you will but you’ve got to cut yourself some slack. You’ve been through hell. Plus you’re probably not going to be comfortable walking through the airport in a terry cloth robe from The Ritz.” He smiled and smoothed her hair away from her face, before gently pinching her nose. “I live simple. I have more than enough money to support us both. If you decide you’d like to have a job once we get settled, I won’t stand in your way. For now, though, it’s my pleasure to make sure you have what you need.”
Her expressions softened and she laid a hand over his heart. She nodded, eyes glowing with gratitude. “Thank you, Mason. I want to work and earn my own money. I promise to pay you back.”
He had no intention of letting her do that, but he nodded. “Get your shoes and let’s head down to the lobby.”
She unbelted the robe revealing his T-shirt and shorts underneath.
“Just a minute.” She darted back into the bathroom and returned with the sandals on her feet. Maybe it made him seem chauvinistic, but the satisfaction he felt seeing her wear what he’d given her made his chest swell. Holding hands, they took the elevator to the lobby where Jude had mentioned there were several boutique stores. He’d offered to pick out a few items and bring them up to the room, but he hadn’t been sure of her size and preferences.
The elevator dinged when they reached the main floor, and the doors slid open. Red was aware of the way her smile faded when they entered the sophisticated lobby, and he pulled her against his side tucking her in protectively as they walked past the lounge. He spotted the boutique and gently led her to the glass storefront. Small trinkets and bobbles glinted in the display. Colorful dresses, shirts, and shorts lined the walls. The other side of the small store held bathing suits, jewelry and a small selection of men’s clothing.
She paused outside the store. “Can I go in there dressed like this?”
“Absolutely. There is not a thing wrong with the way you look.”
When they stepped inside, a woman who appeared to be about his mom’s age greeted them and Thalia’s shoulders relaxed beneath her warm smile.
“Hello there. Welcome to the Boutique at The Ritz. Please let me know if you need anything.”
Thalia’s gaze darted around the store. “There is too much to choose from. I don’t know where to start.”
The woman came out from behind the desk. “Are you shopping for a specific event, dear?”
When Thalia said nothing, he placed a hand on her shoulder. “Some essentials. Jeans, shorts, shirts, and a bathing suit.”
“I know just the right things. Why don’t you go on back to the changing room and I’ll bring you some items I think you might like? If you hate it, hand it back, and I’ll find something new. Don’t be shy.” The woman winked at him. “She’s in good hands.”
