Hidden Knights (Knights of the Realm #3) - Jennifer Anne Davis Page 0,37

out two silver rings. Reid took the larger one, sliding it onto Dexter’s finger. He, in turn, took the other and slid it onto her finger.

“I now pronounce you husband and wife.”

Dexter leaned down, pressing his lips to hers in what was supposed to be a chaste kiss. However, a surge of desire swelled inside her. She wanted to show him how much she cared for and loved him. Deepening the kiss, she slid her hands around his neck, pulling him toward her.

He chuckled, the sound deep and throaty. “There’ll be plenty of time for that later,” he murmured in her ear.

Dexter laced his hand with Reid’s, and they turned to face their family. And just like that, Reid was a married woman.

“I officially present Prince Dexter Winston and his wife, Lady Reid Winston.” When they held the ceremony in Axian for all to see, she would be crowned at that time.

Everyone applauded. Duke Ellington hurried forward. He shook Dexter’s hand, then hugged Reid.

Two Ellington soldiers entered, and Idina directed them to move the table back to the center of the room. Harlan ran around placing candles along the perimeter. Once the room was back in order, the soldiers returned with several plates of food. They set the plates on the table before congratulating the happy couple.

“If everyone will please take a seat,” Leigh said. “We have a special meal prepared to celebrate.”

As everyone sat, Reid scanned the faces of those present. She wanted to remember this moment for the rest of her life. Duke Ellington sat tall and straight, his chest puffed out a little more than she’d seen as of late, pride radiating from him. Gordon, on the other hand, sat slightly slouched, his face blank with indifference. Leigh had never been particularly warm toward Reid, and now was no exception. Her being involved and helping had to do with the fact Dexter was her nephew and Henrick’s son. Idina kept glancing at Reid with smug satisfaction, as if she knew a secret. Reid sincerely hoped it didn’t have to do with what came after dinner. However, knowing Idina, she’d probably done something in regard to a marital suite for the night. Reid shoved all thoughts about that aside. For now, she wanted to enjoy the moment. Harlan smiled warmly from where he sat beside her, seeming genuinely happy for his friend. When she looked at Ackley, his brows drew together and his forehead wrinkled in confusion. His attention remained on his spoon as he tapped it against the table, lost in thought.

Dexter rubbed her back. “Are you okay?” he mumbled so only she would hear.

“Perfect.” When she turned toward him, her breath caught. This man was her husband. And he was watching her as if she were the most important thing to him. Leaning in, she placed a soft kiss on his cheek.

His lips curved into a smile. “I don’t think I’ll ever get used to that.”

Duke Ellington stood, capturing everyone’s attention. “Thank you all for being here tonight to celebrate my daughter’s marriage to Dexter. I’m honored to gain such a worthy son-in-law. When I look at my youngest daughter and see how her face lights up when Dexter walks in the room…well, I can tell you that, as a father, I can’t ask for anything more than my daughter’s happiness.” He raised his cup. “Dexter, thank you for being Reid’s partner in life.”

“Here, here,” Gordon said, raising his cup.

Everyone took a drink, then started eating. Her father reminisced about his wedding day. Leigh shared a story about the day she married Hudson. Harlan even joined in to offer a few things about the day he married Sophie.

“It is getting late,” Gordon said, “and I am departing before the sun rises. Mother, Idina, I assume you are packed and ready to go with me?”

“We are.” Idina sighed. “I suppose I should retire for the night.” She stood, then exited the room.

“Come, Harlan,” Reid said. “I’ll walk you out.”

He thanked everyone for including him, then followed Reid to the front door. “I’m glad you’re happy,” he said. “I was afraid Dexter would have stifled you. Or resented you. Clearly, I was wrong. If anything, he’s helped bring you out of your shell.”

Reid hugged her dear friend. “I’m glad you’ll be coming with us. I’ve missed you.” She wanted to hear more about his life with his new bride, how things were going at the apothecary’s, and what else he’d been up to since Reid had been in