He chuckles. “I’m not, but I think it’s the perfect time. We’ll invite Lauren up here to spend some time with us and get her out of that house, have a wedding in our amazing backyard, and move back on the course we were always meant to be on.”
“We could change Sophie’s name.”
He nods. “I have been meaning to talk to you about that, but I didn’t want to push.”
“If I’m going to be a Cross, then she needs to be too.”
His eyebrows rise. “Is that a yes?”
“It’s a yes, Patrick Cross.”
37
CASSIE
It doesn’t take long to pull a wedding together.
By myself it might have, but Jane and Brian were over the moon, and once Lauren found out, we had more help than we knew what to do with.
It’ll be a quiet affair—just our family and Patrick’s friend, Ethan.
Sophie and I will be walking down the aisle together. It felt right for the three of us to be part of the ceremony. Well, four if you count the little nugget I’m carrying.
“Mum, are you ready?”
I found the perfect dress at the bridal shop, but I balked at the price until Patrick stepped in and told me to spend the money. It’s long and flowing in an off-white soft fabric that feels like a dream to wear.
“I am.” I turn to take in the sight of my daughter.
Her dress is blue and matches her eyes. It’s the first timeshe’s worn a gown, and she looks much older than her fourteen years.
“Look at you. So grown up.”
I open my arms, and she snuggles in against me.
“Let’s get you married to Dad.”
“Okay, okay, Sophie Cross.”
She grins. The name change took about three weeks, and she was over the moon to share her father’s name. After today, it’ll be my name too.
“I love you, Mum.”
“I love you too. So very much.”
She takes my hand, and we walk down the stairs and to the back door.
Patrick’s waiting under a tree near the back of the lawn, and together we make our way to him.
His mouth falls open.
And all I see is him.
When we reach him, he gives Sophie a kiss and she goes and sits with Lauren.
Patrick takes my hand in his.
I’m so busy looking into his eyes, I barely hear the first part of the ceremony until we reach the vows.
