The beautiful actress-turned-producer love of his life deserved nothing less. “There’s a quote by an author that is perfect for us. ‘A second chance doesn’t mean anything if you don’t learn from your first.’” The saying was attributed to Zig Ziglar, a veteran, salesman, motivational speaker, and more. “We suffered and we learned. And now I don’t want to spend another minute without you by my side.” He’d decided to keep it short and sweet. “I love you and need you. Sasha Keaton, will you marry me and become a Kingston?”

***

Sasha stared at the elegant ring that sparkled in the sunlight. Her family and Xander’s stood around them, waiting, along with the man she adored, for her answer.

“You must be pretty confident to do this in front of everyone.” Her smile grew wider as she met his gaze. “Yes, I will marry you. I love you, Xander. Then, now, and forever.”

Around them, the families clapped and cheered as Xander slipped the ring on her finger.

“It fits perfectly.” She blinked and happy tears dripped down her cheeks.

“I borrowed one of your rings and took it with me to the jeweler.” He rose to his feet, and she threw her arms around him, pressing her lips to his.

The kiss went on and on, their tongues slipping and sliding against each other’s until someone called out, “Get a room!”

Laughing, they broke apart, still staring into each other’s eyes and smiling.

Sasha couldn’t tear her stare from Xander and his scruffy beard and the happy grin on his handsome face. For all they’d been through, this had been worth waiting for.

She was so grateful they’d given each other just one more chance because now they had forever.

Epilogue

And another month later…

The waiting room of the hospital was full with the entire Kingston clan waiting for Jordan to give birth. Her parents, Tamara and Patrick, were beside Xander’s mom as they alternately talked and paced.

Xander sat beside Sasha, holding her hand. They’d been playing musical chairs with the rest of his siblings and significant others for the better part of three hours. Xander had talked to everyone, and he now just wanted some quiet time with Sasha.

“If it was us, would you want to know if the baby was a boy or a girl?” she asked.

He met her gaze, surprised by the question. They’d talked about everything and anything… except having children. “I don’t know. I haven’t given it any thought.” He paused, then asked, “Do you want kids?”

He held his breath. He’d always desired a family, but he hadn’t thought about kids since he and Sasha had gotten engaged. He’d been too busy enjoying her. But now that the subject was on the table, he did not want her to take the possibility away from them.