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“I realize we haven’t been dating that long.”
“Only a couple of weeks,” my mom adds.
“Mom,” I begin, “I—”
Donny squeezes my hand, and I close my mouth. I’ll let him do this. Sure, it’s completely patriarchal, but it’s also kind of sweet.
“We realize it’s soon,” Donny says, “but when it’s right, it’s right. I watched my brother fall in love quickly. I’ve heard the stories about how my mother and father fell in love quickly all those years ago. I love Callie, and… Well, you’re probably aware of my reputation. I’m hardly inexperienced. So when I know something is right, it’s right.”
I try not to wince at the mention of Donny’s reputation. It’s something I don’t like to think about, and his bringing it up while he’s asking for my father’s blessing… Yeah, not sure it’s the wisest idea.
My father’s countenance is stern as he clears his throat. “Donny, I can’t think of a better man to be my daughter’s husband.” He holds out his hand and smiles.
That’s when I realize I’m holding my breath. I exhale sharply.
“Thank you, sir.” Donny shakes my father’s hand.
“Stop this sir nonsense. I’m Frank, just like I’ve always been. Especially now that we’re going to be related.”
“If you’re sure, Callie.” Mom smiles at me.
“Mom, I don’t think I’ve ever been more sure of anything.”
The absolute truth in my words arrows straight to my heart. Despite the mess that surrounds us at this moment, I still have Donny. I still have my mom and dad. I have Jesse, Rory, and Maddie.
Family.
Family is everything.
“Callie and I would like to make the announcement tonight,” Donny continues. “Are the two of you okay with that?”
Before my dad can answer, my mom zeroes in on my left hand and grabs it. “Callie! This is so beautiful. What kind of stone is that?”
“It’s an orange sapphire,” I say.
“I’ve never seen anything like it,” Mom gushes.
“It matches her eyes, doesn’t it?” Donny says.
Both my mom and my dad stare into my eyes—to the point where I’m almost uncomfortable.
“It does.” Mom claps her hand to her mouth.
“No stone can hold a candle to Callie’s beauty,” Donny says.
My cheeks are blazing now. I’m sure they’re bright candy apple red.
“Don,” my father says, “you’re damned right about that.”
CHAPTER FORTY-FOUR
DONNY
Uncle Ryan and Dad grab Callie and me while Dale and Ashley make sure everyone has a flute of Steel sparkling wine.
Then Jesse takes the microphone. “Hey, everyone! I need your attention up here on the stage, please.”
Conversation lowers to a dull roar.
