“I’m not pregnant,” Gabi said with a laugh.
“The day is young,” Eliza pointed out.
The blue garter was perfect. Sam did the ceremonial placement while Gwen approached last.
“I always give the sixpence for the shoe.”
A what?
Gwen dismissed her pending question with a look. “It’s a British thing, just go with it.”
Gabi placed the tiny coin in the bottom of her shoe with a giggle.
Music started to play outside and the women waddled toward the door.
Sam handed Gabi her bouquet and pulled a strand of hair from her perfectly messy bun. The kind of hairstyle Hunter couldn’t resist.
Gabi looked through the open door to find her brother staring with an open mouth.
“I’ll see you out there.” Sam kissed her cheeks and left the two of them alone.
“My God, tesoro . . . Hunter is a lucky man.”
She took her brother’s hands in hers as he kissed her cheek. “This is what you want, Gabi? You’re not married . . . you can walk away now and—”
She placed a finger over her brother’s lips before resting her hand on his shoulder. “My life isn’t complete without him. I want your blessing, Val. Completely.”
“You have it. Papa would be proud.”
Gabi glanced at the ceiling. “I like to think he’s here.”
Val kissed her fingers before offering his arm.
The island courtyard had been fashioned for a wedding. A string quartet started the march, and everyone stood and turned her way.
Gabi matched Hunter’s stare, felt his excitement as much as her own as she approached. Dangerously handsome, Gabriella was selfishly claiming him a second time.
Val placed her hand in Hunter’s before taking his seat.
“You’re stunning,” he said once she was by his side.
“You say that to all the women you’re about to marry.”
He kissed her hand. “You sure this is what you want?”
She felt the eyes of everyone watching them . . . listening to their intimate conversation. “Well, since you refuse to step in front of a bus, and I’m not going to let any other woman have you, this looks like the best option.”
They were both holding back laughter as the priest cleared his throat.
Blake tapped Hunter on the shoulder.
Hunter lifted a hand in the air. “One more thing.”
He leaned in. “I love you,” he whispered right before he kissed her.
They turned toward the priest.
“Ready now?” he asked.
They nodded together.
“Dearly beloved . . .”