Page 8 of Forever Oblivion

Nash settled his silverware next to his empty plate. “I’ve already talked to them. I’d like them to be in the wedding party.” He hesitated. “And your dad.”

My mouth dried. I fumbled my glass and gulped down about half the contents. “My father?”

“Yes. It’s traditional to get the father’s blessing.”

He fidgeted a little, but I understood. So many of those traditions had been stripped from his life, and he craved them, just as I’d been desperate for roots, a true home.

“Let me guess. He didn’t give it to you.”

“He did.”

I gawped. He gently closed my mouth.

“I was surprised, too. But he said if I made you happy, he wasn’t going to stand in the way.”

“That’s…” I shook my head. A thought occurred to me. “How much money did you give him?”

Nash appeared sheepish. “Too much, but definitely not enough to make him be a decent person.”

“You’re right. Maybe he realized he’s been a terrible father.”

Nash turned thoughtful. “Maybe. I mean, I worked things out with Steve, so I can’t say never—even in your dad’s case. But that doesn’t mean I like him.”

I smirked. “Me either.”

Night had fallen, and deep blue shadows swirled around the soft roil of the waves, the white foam brighter against the dark sea.

We settled into a warm, contented quiet. I leaned my head against Nash’s shoulder. “Thank you.”

He turned to look down at me. “For?”

“Protecting me like you said you would. For loving me despite my fears. For fighting for us.”

“You did, too,” he said. “All that. Even when I was being a dumbass, pushing you away instead of dealing.”

I began to shake my head. He used his free hand to lift my chin, bringing us as close to eye level as he could.

I smiled, happiness causing me to laugh. “I’m going to ask Steve to walk me down the aisle.”

“That’s remarkably touching,” Nash said. “And a sly dig at your father. I’m down.”

I laughed again. “Figured.” I sobered. “What else did my father say?”

“He’d like to attend the wedding, if you’re okay with that.”

I sighed. “I don’t know.”

Nash splayed his hand over the back of my neck. “I get it. More than likely he’s being nice just to curry favor with us.”

I nodded. “I thought of that.”

“Whatever you decide to do about him, I’ll back you up.” He pressed a kiss to my temple. I relaxed and closed my eyes.

“You’re a good man, Nash. I don’t tell you that enough.”

Our waiter cleared his throat, and we turned to find him hovering in the doorway.

Nash waved him in. We ate and watched the waves roll in as the sun sunk below the horizon.

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