Page 53 of Aidan

“Why not? If you can’t buy gifts for yourself, who can you buy them for?” I smirk. “Besides isn’t there something in the wedding vows about what’s mine is yours and what’s yours is mine?”

“I don’t think that’s in the actual vows.” She rolls her eyes and walks through the open space taking it all in.

“There’s an upstairs that can be used for storage if we need it. Or we can extend the small space in the back that’s already there.” I gesture in that direction. “You could even make the upstairs into a special events area where you showcase a single artist’s work or throw a fancy party.”

Sorcha faces me. “You’ve thought a lot about this, haven’t you?”

I close the distance between us and take both her hands in mine. “I know I’ve asked a lot of you, what with the whole marriage and moving to Dublin, thing. I want you to be happy.”

She places her hand on my chest and rises up on tiptoe to kiss me. “Iamhappy. As long as I still have you in my life, I’ll be happy.”

Her words settle deep in my chest, warming it. I claim her lips with mine, curling my hand around her hip, and tugging her to me. There’s no rushing. It’s a sweet, perfect kiss. I draw back and press my forehead to Sorcha’s. “You make me happy, too.”

I reach into my pocket and pull out the small, square velvet box. Sorcha sucks in a breath.

“Do you remember what you asked me to do?” I take out the platinum band with its large round diamond in the center surrounded by emerald accents.

She clears her throat before she can speak. “I asked you not to rule out the possibility of falling in love with me.” Still it comes out in a hushed voice.

Taking her trembling hand in mine, I slide the ring down her third finger. “I think it’s very possible I already am. Sorcha O’Connell, will you marry me? Not because of any debt or blackmail. But because you’re the person I want to spend my life with.”

It’s not the pretty words every woman wants to hear, but I’m doing my best to open myself up to possibilities. To her. To love. I hold my breath waiting for her to choose me. To choose us.

“Yes.”

CHAPTER26

Sorcha

Once Aidan proposed,we decided not to wait. I mean, when it’s the right person, what’s the point?Five days after he gave me the best wedding present ever, we’re getting married. It’s a perfect day for it, too. The gods must be looking down on us and smiling, because the sun is shining brightly in the sky and there’s not a single cloud. A rarity in Dublin this time of year.

Caitlín, Nessa, and Lucia had rallied together and with whirlwind speed had a small but adorable venue booked. I would have been happy to have it in the backyard at the manor, but since Liam has refused to step foot on Donnelly property again, it wasn’t an option. Nessa told me he’d only done it the one time for Imogen’s sake.

The three women had also helped me pick out a dress, flowers, and took care of getting the food for the reception. They even hired a photographer to take some pictures. Although it’s only family present, there are still nearly twenty people. That’s also counting Aidan and me.

“Aidan is going to want to rip this dress off you the minute you head down the aisle,” Caitlín says with an appreciative whistle.

“Let’s hope he at least waits until he has her alone.” Nessa giggles.

Despite Caitlín still pinning back my hair, I turn in my seat to face the two of them. “Thank you both for being here and standing up with me. I don’t really have any girlfriends left and both of you have been so warm and welcoming.”

“That’s what family is for. Besides, my sister and best friend are halfway across the world. It’s nice having sisters here,” Caitlín says. “Even if technically we’re cousins-in-law.”

“I grew up an only child with a shitty Da. Imogen and I are slowly becoming friends, but it’s been a challenge. I’m sure because Cian and Liam hate each other. It can’t be easy for her to be caught in the middle.” Nessa sighs. Does she not realize she’s caught there, too?

The wedding ceremony is going to be interesting with everyone, including Liam, in attendance. Aidan had personally invited Imogen and him, although the latter with great reluctance. But he said he knew that if Liam wasn’t allowed to come, then his sister wouldn’t attend either. I’d been introduced to her when the two of them arrived. They couldn’t have been more different. Liam wore a dark, pin-striped suit that showed off his massive build, and his rough and craggy face spoke of someone who’d live a rough life. Imogen, on the other hand, resembled the lead singer of a goth band with her black and white skull dress and the purple and teal streaks throughout her black hair.

“I’m glad they could come. Aidan wouldn’t want his sister to miss his wedding. I’m sure everyone can behave themselves for a couple hours,” I say.

Nessa and Caitlín exchange disbelieving glances. There’s a knock on the door and Aisling skips into the room.

“I brought the flowers.” She holds up the basket filled with rose petals nearly spilling some of them in her excitement.

“Look at how pretty you are,” I gush.

The white dress with its flared tulle skirt and wide Kelly green ribbon around the waist that ties into a giant bow at the back had been adorable when she’d tried it on. With her hair combed and styled in loose curls, she’s the perfect flower girl.

“I’m ready to throw them.” Aisling nearly vibrates with giddiness.

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