I stop walking for a second and look up at him.
“I don’t want any moment where you’re not a part of it,” I tell him quietly.
He laughs softly under his breath.
“You worked for this,” he says. “You fought for it. I just wanted you to enjoy it.”
The orchestra shifts into a slow melody as we step onto the floor.
I slide my arms around his neck while his settle securely at my waist, drawing me closer.
We move together easily, naturally, like we’ve always known how.
Mike studies my face for a moment before speaking.
“I’m so proud of you,” he says.
The sincerity in his voice hits me harder than the applause ever did.
I smile softly.
“Thank you,” I reply. “But none of this would have been possible without you.”
His brow lifts slightly. “Oh?”
“Yes,” I say simply. “You’re the best husband in the whole world.”
His mouth curves slowly. “Oh. I don’t think you’ve ever told me that before.”
I groan. “Mike, I tell you that every day.”
“Have you told me today?” he asks innocently.
I narrow my eyes at him.
“Okay, fine.”
I grab the front of his jacket and pull him down, capturing his lips with mine. The kiss is quick but full of laughter and affection—and out of the corner of my eye I see cameras flashing across the room.
I don’t mind.
Let them take all the pictures they want.
This—right here—is my entire world.
When I pull back, I look straight into his eyes.
“You’re the best husband in the world, Mike,” I say softly. “And I love you so much.”
His expression softens instantly.
“I love you too,” he says. Then his voice lowers just a little. “And do you think we can skip the after-party and go home?”
I laugh. “I thought you wanted me to enjoy the spotlight.”
“That was before,” he says, leaning closer, “you started talking dirty to me.”
My eyes widen. “Mike—”
