way. El was right. It was time.
“What’s up, Sugar?” I turned and held JT’s hands in my own. I looked down at my small hands holding his. I could feel the roughness of his fingertips. Tomorrow night could be the night for us. Nervous energy rushed through me.
“JT.” He smiled at me. Do not smile at me JT. I needed to just get this out before I chickened out. “You and I—I mean, I—god, I don’t know where to start.” His brows furrowed and his jaw clenched. He looked upset. I wish my tongue didn’t feel so twisted. I take a deep breath and blow it out. Rolling my shoulders back I decide to just spill it all out. “JT. We’regettingmarriedtomorrow.” His eyebrows lift. I can’t believe I just put it out there like that. Who does that? The corners of his mouth tilt then turn into a full out grin. He throws his head back in full out laughter. I’m mortified. I’ve blown the one chance I had to keep the ranch. I don’t know what to say. I turn to walk away. His hand grasps the upper part of my arm and turns me so abruptly I slam into his chest. The laughter in his eyes turn serious. He looks at my mouth. I can see the lust burning in his eyes.
“Sugar, you have no idea how happy you’ve made me. I will spend every waking moment of my life showing you how much you mean to me.”
“Does that me yes?”
“Yes, baby. YES!” My legs leave the ground as he picks me up and spins me around. “We’re getting married!”
“You look beautiful sweetheart. Your Gramps would be so proud.” I turned from the full length mirror to Pops. His shiny belt buckle gleamed proudly on his waist. I had insisted on a very small and casual ceremony. What I hadn’t realized was Pops didn’t do anything casual or small. Fortunately, El reassured him she would take of everything, tastefully.
They had chosen The Montreal, a five star hotel in downtown Boulder. The ceremony would be held in a private suite two bedroom suite adjoined to another, equally large, suite. The women insisted I stay here with them last night. We had our own little girl’s night, ordering room service of steak tip salads and cocktails. This morning, after we returned from shopping, I was ushered back to my bedroom. It had an en suite bathroom with a large soaking tub. The best part was the view.
I’ve spent the better part of the afternoon getting ready. My hair had already been taken care of by a hairdresser El had sent to my room. I assume the others are getting ready in the other bedrooms. I can hear the noises of hotel staff hustling around the main rooms, preparing for what’s to come next.
“Thank you so much Pops.” Tears threaten to ruin the makeup I’ve just spent too long applying. He hands me a tissue. I dab my eyes. Thank goodness for waterproof makeup. I silently thank Skye for her advice.
“Anything for you sweetheart. Now, come on. Your man is waitin’ on you.” He takes my hand, leading me out to the hallway where El is waiting. “Oh honey, you look beautiful! Did I not tell you?” El has a wad of tissue in one hand. She dabs her face with a tissue from the other hand. “I can’t help it. I’ve always wanted a daughter.” I smile. The faces of my parents and Gramps flash in my mind. I’d like to think they’d be happy too. I’m sad they couldn’t be here. “Your mama would’ve been so proud.” I’m too choked up to respond. Instead, I nod, knowing she understands.
“Well, let’s get this show on the road.” We walk arm and arm to the living room.
The entire space has been rearranged. Couches and chairs have been pushed aside to create an aisle. A long white carpet leads from the hall way through the middle of the room, ending where Jayne is standing. Behind her is the view of the snowy covered Rocky Mountains. It’s breathtaking. Sitting on the couches are Jayne’s husband, Grayson, Skye, Chase, and Kenny. The tears threaten to come again when I see them. I felt guilty for keeping this from them and here they are. Skye points to Chase who shrugs.
As the music guides us down the aisle my eyes lock on the only pair that can mesmerize me. I am completely undone.
Twenty Four
I knew mom