AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Yes,” she answers with a smile. “We can hold an outdoor ceremony on the balcony overlooking the water under a beautifully decorated gazebo.”
I’ve never understood the need for such things, so I allowed Georgia to create whatever fairy tale wedding she envisioned for herself when we got married.
“Have I mentioned the menu or that it has a Bridal Suite?”
Concentrating my attention back on Sumner, I shake my head. With Abi now curled up in my arms drifting off to sleep, I quietly listen as Sumner reads the menu to me like she’s reciting from a script.
“We will start with a warm pear salad,” she begins. “Then Maine diver sea scallops and roasted tenderloin of certified Angus beef, and to complete the meal, we will finish with freshly handpicked berries with Sabayon topping.”
“And you are certain this is what you want?”
The look on her face tells me more than her words ever will, so I ask her to book it before she can answer. Even though she knows her daughter is soundly sleeping in my arms, it doesn’t stop her from squealing in excitement.
As I tighten my grip on Abi, Sumner calms down and apologizes. “I’m sorry, dad,” she whispers. “But you just made me the happiest girl on Earth.”
“Do you have a date picked out?” I go on to ask.
“Yes,” she beams. “July 31st. I realize it’s only six months away, but it was the only date available for the next year.”
“It’s your day, sweetheart. If that’s the date you want, then that’s the date it shall be.”
Mindful of the bundle of joy I’m currently holding, Sumner leans in to hug me tightly. When she asks if I’m okay with Abi while she calls and confirms the booking, I quietly laugh and shoo her away. I treasure every moment I can with this adorable little creature; the more time I can spend with her this visit, the better.
CHAPTERFOUR
Emily
“You should have seen him, Em; he’s the most doting grandfather you’ve ever seen.”
The phone call from Sumner has been just what I needed today. Over the last six months, I’ve found it harder to be on my own when Hawke has been away; today is evidence of that.
“I have something I need to ask you,” she says, interrupting my thoughts.
“Of course, sweetheart; what is it?” I lovingly reply.
“Okay, cool,” she nervously breathes. “You are like a mom to me, and I realize it might sound odd, but is it okay if I call you mom instead of Emily?” she eventually blurts.
Suddenly a feeling of love overwhelms me, and tears well in my eyes. “Oh, Sumner, of course, you can.”
She can sense I’m now crying, especially when her sobs echo down the line. When I express how much of an honor it is to be considered her mom, she cries even harder, setting off my tears. I’ve always wanted to be a mom to someone; if this is the only way I can, then so be it.
“It just feels so right now that I call Hawke dad,” she cries.
“Speaking of your dad, how did he react when you told him about the wedding venue?” I ask once all the tears subside.
Just the mere mention of the wedding changes Sumner’s tone instantaneously. The excitement she is feeling radiates through her voice as she informs me they have booked it for July 31st.Hawke and Sumner met at The Liberty Warehouse with a wedding planner who promised to make it a day Sumner and Tatum would never forget. To secure the venue, my man didn’t just put down a security deposit; he paid the fee in full to ensure nobody could steal it away from them.
“Will you please come dress shopping with me?” I suddenly hear her ask.
“It would be my pleasure, Sumner; of course, I will. As soon as your dad returns from his mission, we will visit together, and then you and I can organize everything you need.” I excitedly reply.
“That would be amazing; thank you so much,” she exclaims. “I have to go; Abi has just woken from her nap, and she sounds super cranky.”
Laughing, I wish her well and hang up. Considering the cards this poor girl was initially dealt with, she has come so far and worked hard to build a happy future. Abigail has brought out a side of Sumner that I doubt we ever thought possible. Her natural maternal instincts kicked in, and not only has it made her an amazing mother, but it also accelerated her healing.
The last report I received from her new psychologist highlighted much personal growth and a reconciliation of the past to enhance rehabilitation. Finally, Sumner has accepted that she was not at fault for what happened to her and her friend. It’s taken six years for her to accept that her attack was part of a bigger plan to get to her attacker’s main target … her best friend, Sherlyn.
CHAPTERFIVE
