Chasing Shadows (First Wives #3)(87)

“To Bernie,” someone in the crowd said, and a chorus went up.

Liam turned to her. “To this beautiful, strong, independent, snarky—”

Avery heard her mother laugh.

“Courageous woman who opened up her heart so I could park myself in.”

She melted in his public appraisal.

“I love you, Princess. I’ve had a little chat with your father. So I need you to take some time and to get used to the idea of changing your name. Because the next time this group of people gets together, it’s going to be with me on one side of the church and you walking my way.”

Her nerves were wrecked. “Are you asking me . . . ?”

“Are you ready for me to ask you to marry me?”

Everything in her tightened. Fear? Excitement?

“I, um . . .”

He winked. “I’ll ask that question in private, but with your track record, I thought it best to let everyone in the room know my intention, so if you suddenly disappear and end up in Finland, your friends here will know why. I’m going to marry you. I’m just telling you now so you can get used to the idea.”

She was going to cry.

“To Avery.” Liam put his glass in the air.

“To Avery,” a chorus went up in the room.

Slowly the music was turned up, and their guests struck up their conversations.

“I love you,” she said to him when no one was listening.

“Your mom loves me, and your dad approves . . .”

“My mother thought I was with Phil when she walked in the room.”

Liam glanced over her shoulder. “I’ll take whatever I can get. Thank you for letting me be a part of your life,” he said before kissing her.

Damn, she loved this man. White picket fence, two point five kids kind of love.

She broke off their kiss and started toward the First Wives, who were all smiles. Avery took several steps and stopped. “Excuse me,” she called out. “Can someone turn the . . . thank you.” The music dropped again.

“Liam?” She turned toward him, hands at her sides.

He grinned like a fool.

“I’ve had enough time. The answer is yes.”

Liam opened his arms and swooped her up. “Took you long enough.”

He kissed her long and soft before slowly setting her down. From his pocket he removed a box, took the ring from inside, and slid it on her finger. “Marry me.”

“I already said yes.”

They kissed again, ignoring whistles and clapping from their family and friends.

“That’s enough of that, son. Time for that later.”

Avery grinned at her father’s words.

“I should say so” was her mother’s reply.

Liam opened his eyes a little wider as he stared down at Avery chuckling.

“I knew my parents would show up sometime.”

He leaned in closer. “They’re going to have to get used to me kissing their daughter.” He placed his lips on hers. “Whenever, however, and wherever I want.”





Acknowledgments

It takes a village to publish a book. This is the part where I thank my townspeople.

Jane Dystel, my brilliant agent, who I lovingly refer to as my pit bull. For all you do . . . thank you.

Kelli Martin, my developmental editor and dear friend. Good call on the Sheldon arc. Love ya, sista.

Maria Gomez and everyone at Montlake Romance who took my manuscript and made it a novel. Big hugs, big kisses . . . and even bigger glasses of bubbles to celebrate another one under the professional belt.

Krav queen of Santa Clarita, Bonnie Formia. Okay, you’re not German, and you never made me do fifty burpees at the same time. But you did roll your eyes at me when I punched with the strength of a gnat, and you did nag me to join your group class. You’ve opened my eyes to krav and everything it can do to help me out of a crappy situation. Thank you, my friend.

Now on to Tanya.

As I said in my dedication, strong women fuel me. Anyone who reads my work can easily deduce that the relationships with the women in my life are vital. Men may come and go, but strong friendships between us ladies last a lifetime. You’re one of the strongest, most beautiful, smart, funny, supportive friends I have the pleasure to call one of mine. Thank you, my friend.

I love you.

Catherine