“If we did, we could always pick it up later.”
That weekend, we had the family over for a barbecue to announce the baby's gender. Everyone was ecstatic, especially the moms, since they already had granddaughters.
“To my grandson. Future heir of The Hamilton Group.” Harrison held up his glass.
“Wait a second,” Julian said. “What about our kids, Dad?”
“Well, of course, son. Them too. But Parker’s boy will carry the Hamilton name and legacy.”
“And so will our daughters,” Roman said.
“Then you better have a talk with them before they get married and tell them not to take their husband’s name.”
“Oh, for God’s sake, Harrison.” Pippa shook her head.
“Boys, ignore him,” Calista said.
“That man is a fool,” Katherine said.
“We have another announcement,” Parker interrupted. “Paige and I decided we want to get married before the baby is born. We want to keep it small with just family and a few friends. The wedding will take place on the beach two weeks from today, and the reception will be at Four Kinds. Sebastian is taking care of everything.”
“Two weeks?” Pippa said. “Are you two sure?”
“Yeah, Mom. It’s what we want.”
I stoodin Julian’s house, staring at myself in a simple, off-the-shoulder, satin white dress. My hair was in an elegant updo with a white veil securely pinned in the back. I barely recognized the woman staring back at me. It wasn’t because of the dress or the veil. It was because of what it meant. My fingers brushed over the fabric of my expanding belly. The satin was delicate. Maybe once too delicate for someone like me. But not this time.
“Okay, I have to say it,” Julian’s voice from behind startled me from my thoughts.
“You look like you’re about to either walk down the aisle or take someone out.” He smiled, walking over to where I stood and kissed my cheek. “I’m serious. It’s a little intimidating.”
“Good,” I said. “That was what I was aiming for.” I smiled, knowing he said what he did to try to ease the nervousness I felt inside.
“He’s waiting on the beach. And for the record, I’ve never seen Parker look this nervous before.”
“Nervous?” I glanced at him.
“Yeah. It’s unsettling. I prefer him cocky.” He winked.
I laughed.
“You good, Paige?”
“I’m good, Julian.”
“Then let’s go get you married.” He held out his arm.
He walked me to where Gabriel sat in his wheelchair.
“You ready for this?” He smiled.
“More than ready.”
“You’re not strapped, are you?” His brow arched.
“Not today, I’m not.” I grabbed his hand.
As I walked down the white runner, my eyes never left Parker’s. I was walking toward something I never thought I’d have. And for once, I wasn’t walking into the unknown unprepared. I was choosing it.
