Page 147 of Be My Bride

“Daddy…” Asia tucks her head into her father’s chest.

He kisses her forehead. “The one thing I could always count on was that my little Asia would make the right choice. Even if I didn’t understand it, I knew you had it handled.” He meets my eyes. “And like I predicted, you made a good choice.”

I dip my chin, understanding the true weight of his acknowledgement.

The approval was hard-earned.

This morning, when I went to visit Asia’s father, he gave me hell. I sat in his office, sweating and squirming as I admitted to everything—how Asia and I met and married in Vegas and also about the pregnancy hanging over my head.

He glared at me and I thought for sure that he’d chase me out of his office, but he just started asking me all these questions—about my commitment to Asia, about my intentions.

I answered them all honestly and told him about my plan.

He agreed.

And now we’re here.

I take Asia’s hand and get down on one knee.

She covers her mouth with her free hand, tears sparkling in her eyes. “I wanted your parents and all our friends here when I proposed to you.” My knee hits the floor and I stare into her beautiful eyes. “First, I want you to know that I’m sober.”

She chuckles under her breath.

Her mother sniffs.

Venus hoots from behind me.

I smile. “Asia, you are everything I have ever wanted. The day you walked into my life, you stole my heart and you never gave it back. I want to spend the rest of my life taking care of you, honoring you and pushing you towards your dreams. Would you do me the honor of marrying me… again?”

My heart is pounding out a crazy rhythm. Going the grand gesture route meant I haven’t had a proper conversation with Asia about where we stand, how she feels about being a potential step-mother. All of that.

I’m just banking on the fact that I’m committed to her and I want her to see that. Everything else will fall into place.

“Hansley,” she inhales deeply, “I want you to know…”

I lean forward, bracing myself.

“That I’m stone-cold sober too,” she says.

Laughter drifts out, but I’m too nervous to do more than smirk.

“And,” her fingers tighten in mine, “my answer is yes.”

“Yes?”

She nods. “Yes.”

I produce the ring box I bought, but she pushes it away.

In a quiet, intimate voice she breathes, “I never took this one off.” She points to the diamond. “Not once.”

Joy fills my heart.

I swoop Asia into my arms and kiss her to the applause of our friends and family. My parents step forward next and wrap us both in hugs.

“Zo!” Asia squeals like my mom’s her best friend. “You’re here too!”

“I couldn’t miss this for the world.” Mom kisses her cheek and then pinches mine. “My son’s a romantic.”

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