Erin sent her a goofy grin that would ensure a flurry of texts from Hawaii.

“People are looking at us,” he said in a conspiratorial whisper. “I think we’re officially going public here. How do you feel about that?”

“I’m not sure what you mean,” she said, playing for time to formulate a witty reply.

“You, me, dating, public, people knowing. Is that okay?”

“Oh, so now we’re dating?”

“You asked me out today, didn’t you? You agreed to go to dinner with me, didn’t you? When I take you home later, you’re probably going to want to kiss me, aren’t you?”

Erin’s system overheated at the thought of kissing him. “Don’t count your chickens, my friend.”

His low chuckle rumbled through his muscular body, but then he pulled her in even closer to him, and her mind went totally blank of all thoughts except for how much she hoped he’d carry through on that “threat.”

Chapter 28

Chapter 28

With his plans for later coming together, Paul endeavored to enjoy the day with friends and family who’d come from near and far to celebrate with Jenny and Alex. They ate and drank like kings and danced liked fools. The tuxedo jackets came off, the bow ties were removed, and the ladies kicked off their heels.

It was a blast. After the years of agony surrounding their mother’s illness, Paul enjoyed a rare day without the many responsibilities that had weighed so heavily on him for such a long time.

Evan and Owen took over during the DJ’s break and played a set that had everyone singing at the top of their lungs before Jenny and Alex once again took center stage for one last dance. They departed a few minutes later in a shower of rose petals and well wishes.

All in all, a perfect day, and one that Paul intended to make even better when he got Hope home. He’d quit drinking hours ago so he could drive her home and so he’d have his wits about him as he made his case to her. This was the most important thing he’d ever do, and he was determined to do it right. She deserved nothing less than his very best, and that was what she’d always get from him, if only he could convince her to let him try to make her happy.

Ethan had been thrilled to leave with the O’Gradys, and it was nice to see him smiling again.

“What a day,” he said as he drove home with Hope in the passenger seat of his truck where he hoped to see her for the rest of his life.

“It was awesome,” Hope said. “They’re so happy.”

He again noted the wistful tone of her voice. “Yes, they are.”