Simultaneously, we turn our backs to walk up to the altar. Jace squeezes my hand three times as we take the final few steps together.

Thirty minutes later, I hear seven words I’ve heard countless times before. At other weddings, in movies, on television shows. They have a different meaning to me now. A permanence I find comforting rather than constrictive.

I don’t realize I’ve started crying until Jace wipes a tear from my face before he kisses me. I let myself have this one moment on the global stage and I throw my arms around his neck, molding our bodies together.

Long after the appropriate amount of time has passed, I pull away. Jace grins at me, his gaze heated.

“I love you,” I tell him, finally voicing the words I’ve been wanting to say to him all day.

“I love you too, Viv.”

We turn to face the cheering crowd. I’m beaming with happiness as I marvel over how unexpectedly, incredibly perfect this moment is. At the four months and three words that somehow got us here.

Together.

THE END

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Publishing a book is not an easy process. Beyond the time and the effort and the logistics, it’s incredibly vulnerable—sharing words you wrote with the world. It’s become less terrifying over time, as I’ve learned how to navigate the ups and downs better, but it’s still scary. Every time.

This book—my debut—will always be extra special to me. Jace and Vivienne’s story is the first one I put out in the world, and firsts are unique. Sometimes messy, sometimes awkward, but nearly always unforgettable.

When I published Four Months, Three Words, I honestly didn’t think anyone would read it. I thought a silly story about a football player and a princess wouldn’t be one anyone wanted to read. But I felt a sense of satisfaction about finishing it and it seemed sad to leave it forever as a massive document on my computer. I never, ever predicted it would become the first of many books I would write. Or that many novels later, readers would still tell me this is their favorite of mine.

Tiffany, thank you for all of your work on this one. Truly, I’m not sure what I would do without you.

Sam, thank you for this stunning cover. And for being such a kind and thoughtful person to work with.

Finally, a sappy reminder to believe in yourself. I published this book without telling anyone. Instead of being proud, I felt embarrassed. Instead of hoping people might read it, I figured they wouldn’t. You don’t need anyone else to assign your dreams value. You can make them meaningful and important all on your own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

C.W. Farnsworth is the author of numerous adult and young adult romance novels featuring sports, strong female leads, and happy endings.

Charlotte lives in Rhode Island and when she isn’t writing spends her free time reading, at the beach, or snuggling with her Australian Shepard.

Find her on Facebook (@cwfarnsworth), Twitter (@cw_farnsworth), Instagram (@authorcwfarnsworth) and check out her website www.authorcwfarnsworth.com for news about upcoming releases!