Nate’s eyes widened. “For real?”
Joseph nodded. He couldn’t think of anything more real or wonderful. “I know your mom and I haven’t been dating each other for long, but she’s an amazing person. I love her more than I could ever put into words. I’d like to spend the rest of my life with both of you as a new family.”
Nate looked at the stage. “Have you asked Adele what she thinks?”
“I spoke to her last night. She loves your mom and enjoys spending time with you. She’s excited and wants to be part of your life.”
“What do you think Mom will say when you ask her?”
“I hope she says yes, but I won’t ask her unless you’re happy to be part of mine and Adele’s life.”
Nate moved his legs as someone walked past them. “Dad wouldn’t have wanted Mom to be alone. She went through a really tough time after he died but, since she’s been spending time with you, she’s happy. If Mom wants to marry you, I don’t mind.”
Joseph hugged him. “Thank you.”
“When will you ask her?”
“I’d like you to be there, so I was thinking about asking her tonight, after we get home.”
“Okay.” Nate looked over Joseph’s shoulder. “Mom’s on her way back. Act natural.”
Shona smiled as she sat in her seat. “I made it to the bathroom before a crowd of women descended. Have I missed anything?”
Nate shook his head. “Nothing important.”
Joseph was saved from answering by the beginning of the next performance. As the choir director lifted his arms, Joseph breathed a sigh of relief. Without Nate’s support, asking Shona to marry would be pointless. Now, the only person he had to convince to spend the rest of her life with him was Shona.
And, even for someone used to high-risk situations, the next few hours would be nerve-racking.
* * *
Nine hoursafter they’d left Sapphire Bay, Joseph was finally home with Shona, Adele, and Nate.
With shiny gold medals around their necks, the choir had regrouped at The Welcome Center in Sapphire Bay for a well-deserved celebration. Coming first in a competition that had been the talk of the community Facebook page was a fantastic achievement.
The competition amongst the choir directors was fierce, but they’d all applauded the top three choirs. When Adele’s choir left the stage after the awards ceremony, the other choirs clapped and cheered. It was wonderful to see such great sportsmanship.
While they were in Polson, Jackie, Andrea, and Paris had decorated the main meeting room and organized some finger food and drink for everyone to enjoy. After even more celebrations and lots of photos, Shona and Nate had come to Joseph’s house for dinner.
It was a great ending to an eventful day, but it wasn’t over yet.
“Does anyone want to share the last spare rib?” Shona asked, standing in front of the barbecue. “Speak now or I’m eating the last one.”
Adele sat back in her seat. “No, thanks. I’m full.”
Nate wiped off the smoky barbecue sauce from around her face. “You look it. I’m okay, too.”
“Not for me,” Joseph added. “If I don’t say so myself, that marinade was one of the best we’ve tasted.”
Shona bit into the juicy rib and closed her eyes. “Mmm,” she said. “I agree.”
Joseph hoped he’d be able to recreate her blissful expression when he asked her to marry him. “What have you got planned for the rest of the evening?”
Shona picked up her paper napkin and wiped her mouth. “Dessert, dishes, maybe a little TV, then home for a hot shower and a good night’s sleep.”
Adele picked up her lemonade. “Can we go to The Starlight Café for breakfast tomorrow? Andrea said she’s making blueberry waffles.”
“You could come to my house instead,” Shona offered. “Nate makes amazing waffles.”
