Total pages in book: 58
Estimated words: 56256 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 281(@200wpm)___ 225(@250wpm)___ 188(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 56256 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 281(@200wpm)___ 225(@250wpm)___ 188(@300wpm)
We both glance back at Paxton and Hartford, who are locked in an adoring gaze, their smiles brighter than ever. The love between them is unmistakable, a testament to their journey together.
Holy shit.
My eyes drift back to Anya, and in that moment, everything becomes clear.
Paxton is right—I am in love.
The realization hits me like a tidal wave, profound and undeniable. Anya’s presence, her smile, the way she makes me feel—it all points to one truth. I’m in love, and it’s the most incredible feeling in the world.
Chapter 21
Anya
I can’t believe my older brother is getting married. And to Hartford of all people. I love Hartford. She’s like a sister to me—we’ve practically grown up together. My heart swells with joy and disbelief.
Unable to contain my emotion any longer, I rise from the table and envelop Hartford in a warm hug. The rest of the family follows suit, standing up and surrounding Paxton and Hartford with congratulatory embraces.
“I can’t believe you’ll finally be my sister,” I tell Hartford, my voice thick with happiness.
“Let’s celebrate!” my father announces, popping the cork off a bottle of champagne with a satisfying pop. “I’m so happy to welcome Hartford to the family.”
My mother winks at Hartford. “I always knew she’d be my daughter someday.”
“Wow,” Callum says, the only one still seated. His face is a picture of astonishment, clearly gobsmacked by the news.
I pat his shoulder, teasingly. “What’s wrong? Did you think since you’re the oldest you’d get married first?”
Callum shakes his head slowly, a bemused smile playing on his lips. “I’ve never even once thought about marriage. For me, or for any of you.”
“Well, obviously it’s bound to happen,” I say, my eyes shifting to Griffin, who is standing across from me. A smile tugs at my lips as I imagine a future with him, just like Paxton and Hartford. With my family.
Griffin has been a staple in our household, just like Hartford. The thought strikes me suddenly, and I can’t believe I’m about to think this, but I’d marry him if he ever asked. I shake my head at my own silly thoughts. He’d never ask me. I’m sure this is just something fun for him. He’s not serious.
However, the way he’s looking at me right now, with an intensity that makes my heart skip a beat, makes me nearly hyperventilate. His gaze is so earnest, so full of emotion, it feels like he could get down on one knee at any moment.
My breath catches in my throat as the possibility lingers between us, making the room spin with the heady mix of celebration and unspoken feelings.
“Are you okay?” Millie asks me, concern etched on her face.
I turn to face her, taking in her light-blonde hair and bright blue eyes. She’s really very pretty, and I’m genuinely happy that Brock is dating her. I nod. “I’m fine. It’s just a lot to take in.”
Millie’s smile lights up her face. “I was kind of expecting it, honestly. Those two are made for each other.”
“Like you and Brock?” I tease, giving her a playful wink.
Her expression shifts, her smile faltering. “Umm, we’re not that serious.”
Sensing I’ve touched on a sensitive topic, I quickly change the subject. “Look at how happy my mother is,” I say, gesturing towards Mom, who is practically glowing with joy.
“She does look happy. So do Paxton and Hartford.”
“Yeah, I guess I shouldn’t be so shocked. I just thought they would date forever.”
Millie laughs, and Tripp steps closer, joining our conversation. “I can’t wait to go to their wedding.”
“Weddings suck,” Tripp mutters, not looking particularly thrilled for the couple.
The whole room starts returning to their seats, but Millie stares at Tripp as if he’s just said the worst thing imaginable. “When the couple is as in love as Hartford and Paxton are, the wedding is amazing.”
Tripp gazes at Millie, his expression softening. “I am happy for them, you know?” He runs a hand through his hair, looking a bit awkward. “I’m not a complete jerk.”
Millie touches his arm gently. “I didn’t think you were.”
Tripp glances down at where Millie’s hand rests on his arm, then pulls back. “I need to finish my meal,” he says hurriedly, retreating to his seat.
I smile at Millie as she resumes her seat next to Brock, who is beaming with pride and happiness.
“When’s the date?” my mother asks, her excitement palpable.
Paxton laughs, his eyes sparkling. “I just asked her, Mom.”
Everyone chuckles, the room filling with a warm, affectionate atmosphere. The clinking of champagne glasses and murmured congratulations add to the celebratory mood. My eyes wander to Willow, who is chatting animatedly with Hartford, her face glowing with happiness. I can’t help but think about how perfect everything feels in this moment.
As we all settle back down, I catch Griffin’s eye again. The way he’s looking at me, so full of warmth and something deeper, makes my heart race. Maybe, just maybe, there’s a future for us too. A future as bright and full of love as the one Paxton and Hartford are stepping into.