Page 33 of Aaron

“Damn, princess. Just stop thinking for a minute and listen to me. As much as I’d love to stay here all day, we can’t. We have to get ready to go to the courthouse because, yes, we’re getting married, and yes, I’m keeping you forever. That’s the reason Jaclyn is here. She’s going to help you get ready for the ceremony.”

I pop up so fast I just miss smacking my head into his chin. Merda. “Wait, we’re getting married today?”

“Not just today, baby. We’re getting married in an hour, and you know how much I hate waiting, so you need to get moving. Jaclyn has a dress she said will work.”

“An hour? You’re insane, or maybe it’s me. We can’t do this in an hour, let alone ever. What about my family? My brothers… They won’t let this happen.”

“Don’t worry about your family. I’ve got it handled. You need to give me more credit than that. You’re mine, baby girl, and I’m never letting you go. Forever, remember?”

I shake my head from left to right, then up and down. What is even happening right now? A zillion thoughts run through my head, but the only one that sticks is marrying him—Aaron—my Daddy. Do I want that? Hell yes. But it’s crazy.

“Cheri?” His voice pulls me out of my head.

“Daddy?” I blink up at him.

“Can I send Jaclyn in to help you, or do you need to talk about this some more? Either way, we’re getting married in a little over an hour. I don’t care whether you’re naked as long as you say the words and it’s legal.”

I snort. Seriously? But searching his face, it’s obvious in his expression. “Send her in. I’m just scared; worried they’ll hurt you, Daddy. I just found you,” I say as I cup his jaw, then slide my fingers through his short beard. I love how it feels against my skin.

“Baby, no one is taking you from me, and nothing will happen. I promise. Now, finish your coffee and jump in the shower. Jaclyn will be right in. The only thing you need to think about is being your beautiful self and remembering I love you.”

My breath hitches when he says the words, and my pulse races. It’s daylight. No more darkness to hide behind, and he still wants me—how did I get so lucky?

“I love you too, Daddy. I might be crazy—we both probably are—but at least we’ll be crazy together.”

His chuckle makes me giggle. Shaking his head, he leans close and rubs his lips against mine. I want more, but he rises and moves to the edge of the bed.

“Come on, you need to get moving.” He smacks my naked butt once I’m standing, then follows me into the bathroom with my coffee. “I won’t see you until the courthouse. But I promise you, I know what I feel, and I’m not changing my mind. You get me?”

“Yes, Daddy, I get you,” I answer while rapidly nodding.

“Good. See you soon, Little princess. Then I’ll make you mine forever in the eyes of the law, and no one will say jack shit about it.”

I don’t even hear the door close; I just hurry to pee, brush my teeth, and jump into the shower. Maybe later, I can soak in that tub with Daddy. Oh God. I have a Daddy, a real one and not just a book boyfriend I’ve written.

It’s the quickest shower I’ve ever had, and I’m drying off when I hear a knock. This time I’m expecting it, and I already know it’s not Aaron. After wrapping the towel around my body, I pull open the door and hug my bestie.

“Shit, girl, and you said I moved fast,” Jac says, as she grins and squeezes me tight. “You ready to get married?”

“Umm, no, maybe, yes. I mean, I want to marry him, but there’s just so much other stuff.”

“Have you not met the Gallants? You saw them in action yesterday; your brothers have met their match. Now hurry, we don’t have much time. We can chat while we get you ready.”

I lean back while still holding Jac’s shoulders. “You don’t think I’ve lost my mind?”

“No, not at all. If I did, I’d be just as committable as you are. Surprised? Hell yes. Shit. I couldn’t believe it when Andrew told me you were here to check on me. I’m really sorry I didn’t call before the wedding or video chat with you. It just happened so fast. Just like this, kind of. Except we didn’t have to sneak around like we are now.” Jac comments from the bedroom while I finish drying off and combing my hair.

“What do you mean sneak?” I ask as I start applying my makeup. There’s not a lot here, but if Aaron—err, Daddy—thought I was beautiful with raccoon eyes, I doubt he’ll care that I won’t look like a model when we get married.

“Yeah, hmm, I guess Aaron didn’t tell you? Oh my God. We’re going to be actual sisters now, well, as close as we can get. Besties married to brothers! How fan-fucking-tastic is that?”

“Jac? The sneaking?” I yell from the bathroom, grinning into the mirror. She’s right, we’ll be sisters-in-law soon. Woo-hoo.

“Oh yeah, sorry. I got a little carried away, I guess. Life is different here on the mountain. You’ll see. It’s like life is just better. Maybe I should have them print bumper stickers that say Life is better on Gallant Mountain, because it sure is.”

“Jac!” I’m not annoyed, but I’ve never seen her like this. She’s always so focused; I used to tease her about it being the lawyer in her. But I’ve never seen her this relaxed, even in college. If I had any doubts about Andrew being good for my bestie, they’re gone now.

“Sorry,” she says with a giggle. “Aaron already left for the courthouse to make the arrangements. Andrew and I will drive you down.