Because we just made it real.
And for the first time since this started, I’m not thinking about threats.
I’m thinking about vows.
And how this might be the biggest, bravest thing I’ve ever done.
Chapter six
Gabriel
“You sure about this?”
It’s her dad.
Not the clerk.
Not Mason.
Her father.
He says it quietly, but the question lands like a body check.
We’re standing on the courthouse steps. Natalie is between us, calm on the outside. Mason has his arms crossed like he’s guarding the Stanley Cup instead of his sister. Her mom is already teary. Maddie is vibrating in a sparkly silver dress that she informed me is "extra sparkly for weddings."
“Yes, sir,” I answer.
Natalie’s father studies me for a long second. He’s seen me play. He’s seen me win. He’s seen me lose my temper once or twice on the ice.
This is different.
“This isn’t hockey,” he says.
“No, sir.”
Natalie slips her hand into mine.
It’s subtle.
But it steadies me.
“We’re sure,” she says.
Her dad nods once. Not thrilled. Not furious. Just measuring.
Mason mutters, “Still insane,” under his breath.
I don’t disagree.
Inside, the courthouse smells like old paper and industrial cleaner. The clerk behind the counter looks like she’s seen every version of this. Crying couples. Angry couples. Pregnant couples. Vegas couples.
We probably fall into the suspiciously calm category.
Maddie tugs my sleeve. “Is this the room?”
“Yes.”
“Is this where you say yes?”
