Her eyes got misty with tears and she shook her head to clear them away. “It’s post pregnancy hormones,” she said, laughing. Then she leaned over and clinked her glass with mine before touching it to Jurnee’s and telling her it was her turn.
“I’m so happy that you found your person,” she began. “Paxton brought you fully to life and for that we adore him because you’re our family. We never wanted to lose you and now you are with us a hundred percent.”
Everyone said cheers, our glasses touched and then she turned the time over to Summer.
“You, my friend, are a knockout and Paxton is one lucky man. Don’t ever let him forget it either. I wish you both years of happiness.”
More clinking went around the circle and then it was Alley’s turn.
“May your make-up sex be as great as mine always is and your man give you endless orgasms.” She had a smug smile on her face as we all yelled, “Cheers.”
“Girlfriend, I am so glad you found your way to us. And that you can bake the way you do,” Teal said, rubbing her tummy and licking her lips causing us all to crack up. “You two are so cute and perfect for each other, I am so excited to see you get married.”
I looked at Brinley as she started. “When I came to town you were so kind to me and it means the world. But the way you helped Rowan and me the night of the shooting is something I will never forget. I will always be here for you and for Paxton, you guys are forever my friends.”
I’d been holding back the tears so I didn’t mess up my makeup, but it was getting harder to do. I fanned my face trying to prevent the few in my eyes from dropping down my face.
“Almost done,” Ruby said. “I see in Paxton what I have always seen in my man and the others. He is a protector and he will do everything not only to keep you safe but also to show you he loves you more than life itself. And that is what you deserve, girlfriend.”
Last but not least a semi-quiet Patience spoke. “I just want to thank you for being my friend,” she said shyly. “I know I’m younger than you and the others but you took me under your wing and don’t treat me like some little kid but a woman, a friend, and a person. That’s not something I ever felt at home. I hope you and Paxton are very happy together.”
Everyone raised their glasses in the air, touched them to one another and screamed “Cheers!” one last time, but I could see how emotional everyone was after Patience’s speech.
“It’s showtime,” Gemma said. “Let's get you to the man of your dreams.”
“Wait. I have something I need to say and give to all of you.” Everyone had puzzled expressions on their faces.
I rummaged through my bag and pulled out eight small, wrapped boxes, all in a different color, and passed them out to each of the women. They all stared at the package in their hands.
“You know my necklace is one Paxton gave me yesterday, right?” They all nodded. “Well it isn’t just any necklace. It has a tracking device in it to keep me safe. You guys are my best friends, my family, and I want all of you to be safe too. Open the boxes.”
They all tore into their paper and opened the box, each revealing necklaces that matched mine. Each lady pulled the necklace out and began putting them on with enthusiasm.
“This is so freaking cool,” Brinley said.
“Our men are going to love this. Thank you so much, Capri,” Teal said.
“Who tracks this?” Patience asked. “There isn’t anyone to monitor mine.” Her eyes drifted to the floor and tears pooled in her gaze making my heart break.
After walking over, I wrapped her in my arms. “Sweetheart, all the guys atNo Surrenderwill be able to get a beat on us and track us, not just our husbands. You are one of us and we care about you.”
I knew exactly what she was thinking and once again even as young as she was, it was clear where her heart was, even if she didn’t want to admit it.
As I pulled back, Ruby came up beside us and looked at Patience. “My brother will have any info just like the guys so he knows where you are. I know Jett is always worried about you while he is away.”
Patience didn’t say anything but blew out a breath and nodded her head. I prayed one day that Jett came home and claimed the girl I knew he cared about, just as she did him.
“Okay, ladies, let’s get this girl married!” Alley hollered.
Within minutes I was being shuffled toward the backdoor and all the ladies left to take their seats but Gemma.
“You ready, sis?”
I grabbed her in a big hug and held tight for a second. When I left my parents lying on the floor in the bakery years ago, I thought I’d be alone forever.
But I was far from alone.
“I was ready months ago,” I told her.
