Page 156 of Absolution

I set the cell on speaker, “Viktor, speak.”

“Hi, princess.”

“Dadda.” Aisling’s smile is brighter than the early morning sun.

“She’s searching for you,” I share.

“I’ll see you soon, princess,” he promises.

As she coos his name again, I confess, “I should get going. I have to feed our children and get ready. See you at the altar.”

“It can’t come soon enough.”

I shake my head to hide my smile at his eagerness. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

“Good morning,” I greet Brenda properly.

“Good morning. Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt. Aisling didn’t want to wait.” Aisling gets cozy with me in bed.

“No problem. Is Niko up?”

“Not yet.”

I’m shocked, but it’s been a hectic few weeks for everyone. “Let’s feed you, Aisling, then get your brother.”

“Dadda,” Aisling calls.

“We will see him later. Now let’s get breakfast.”

* * *

Viktor’s morning call came in two hours ago, and I swear time is going super slow. The hairdresser is supposed to be here soon. For whatever reason, I find myself nervous. It’s silly but exciting. In less than five hours, I’ll walk down the aisle to marry Viktor. He didn’t like me saying we were renewing our vows.

“Are you nervous?” Anita asks as we lay the kid’s clothes on the bed.

“Is it that noticeable?”

She smiles while holding her index finger and thumb an inch apart. “Just a tad.”

“Were you nervous? I mean, I don’t understand why I’m nervous. I’m already married to the man.”

“Of course, I was nervous on my wedding day. It’s normal, whether you’re married already or not.”

“The hairdresser is here,” Tina announces, entering the bedroom.

“Okay.”

Anita ushers me out of the room. “Let me finish with the kids. Today is all about you being pampered. I’ll worry about my beautiful grandchildren.”

“You’re amazing.” I squeeze her hand. “I love you.”

Her eyes water. “Oh, sweetheart. I love you, too.”

“Don’t you dare cry, Anita.” I dab at my eyes. “If you cry, I’ll cry.”

“Come on already.” Tina grabs my hand and leads me out of the bedroom.

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