EPILOGUE
2 MONTHS LATER
“We’re going to be late,” Jackson called.
Mia swiped the mascara over her eyelashes one last time before looking in the mirror at her reflection. Her hair was down in waves and her makeup was perfection. She rarely took the time to put this much effort into her appearance, but Jackson told her they were going to a surprise party at the resort where Noah would propose to Jessa. They hired a professional photographer to capture the moment, so everyone was dressing their best.
“Coming!” she called.
She came out of the bathroom—their bathroom—wearing a flowing yellow dress. It was hot out, the perfect temperature to not need a jacket. Summer was in full-swing at the resort, and tourists were flooding in to enjoy biking and hiking on the mountain.
“You look gorgeous,” Jackson said, pulling her into his arms and pressing a soft kiss to her lips.
“Thank you. You look sexy yourself.”
He wore tan slacks and a white button-up shirt. His hair was styled with gel, making him look so put together and perfect.
She wanted to ravish the man when they got back home.
They climbed into his truck and drove the short distance to the resort. Once they parked, Jackson took her hand, and they walked inside.
“Where is he proposing?” she whispered in case Jessa was around.
“He’s going to lead her into the ballroom, so we’re going to hide out in there.”
The doors to the ballroom were closed when they approached. Jackson took the handle and pulled the door open to a dark room. Mia looked back at Jackson.
“Are you sure we’re meeting in here?”
“SURPRISE!”
Mia jumped back into Jackson’s arms. He laughed lightly at her side. She looked around confused and was about to tell everyone they were yelling surprise to the wrong couple when she noticed Noah and Jessa standing among the crowd.
Jackson’s family was all there, the men were all wearing tuxes. His mom was wearing a beautiful satin dress. Then Mia noticed her family. Her mom was wearing a satin dress as well, while her dad was in a tux.
“I’m confused,” she whispered.
Emma came forward wearing a beautiful white gown, holding a basket of rose petals. She grabbed a handful and tossed them in the air. “Thank you for letting me be the flower girl for your wedding. I’m so excited!”
Mia turned toward Jackson to ask what she meant. But he wasn’t standing beside her anymore. He was down on one knee, holding a small box containing the most beautiful diamond ring she had ever seen. She gasped and covered her mouth with her hand.
“Mia, it took me far too long to realize you were the one for me. I think since you were in front of me and we were alwaystogether, I never considered us being together. It wasn’t until I saw you dating other people I realized we belonged together. I know I’m the only person in this world who can treat you with all the love and respect you deserve. And I would love it if you would let me try forever. Mia Thompson, you are the love of my life. Would you do me the honor of being my wife?”
Tears sprang to her eyes, and she nodded. “Yes.”
Jackson stood, a smile beaming across his face as he placed the ring on her finger. “I have one more thing to ask.”
She looked up into his eyes, where tears gathered. “What is it?”
“Would you do the honor of marrying me today?”
Suddenly, it all made sense why everyone was dressed up so much. She looked around at the crowd. Everyone who was important to them was already standing in the room. Mia never pictured much for her wedding growing up. She assumed it would be at the resort, and as long as all her friends and family were there, she would be happy.
Emma bounced excitedly, holding the basket of flowers.
“Say ‘yes!’” she shouted.
Everyone in the room chuckled, and Mia couldn’t help the laugh that burst from her lips. She looked back at Jackson and nodded. “Yes. Let’s get married.”
