“Truly,” he confirmed, and there was a smile in his voice.
The edges of her mouth twitched, then lifted, unfurling into a genuine smile.
“Thank you, Seth,” Brenda said, her tone lighter, almost playful. “For a man of few words, you sure know how to make them count.”
Seth’s chuckle rumbled softly between them, a sound that held both relief and contentment. “I’m learning,” he admitted. “And I’ve got the best teacher.”
In the simplicity of the moment, with hearts laid bare and promises made, Brenda knew the depth of Seth’s love was as vast as the Texas sky stretching endlessly above them.
“Is this real?” Brenda murmured, her words a featherlight touch against the evening air.
“Every bit of it,” Seth replied.
They wrapped their arms around each other. Brenda nestled into Seth’s embrace, her sharp wit and sassiness melting into the warmth of his chest. His arms tightened around her, a solid testament to his commitment.
“Whatever comes our way, we’ll face it together,” he said.
“Side by side,” Brenda agreed.
“Look there,” Seth pointed with his free hand, “first star of the evening.”
“Make a wish?” Brenda asked, her voice playful yet soft, like the breeze that rustled the leaves around them.
“Already got it,” he replied. “I love you, Brenda Clinkinbeard. I love you for you, and not for the baby you’re carrying. I love the woman who spent weeks planning a Christmas party and days scrubbing an already clean house.”
Brenda chuckled. “Oh, Seth, I love you too!” She leaned her head against Seth’s shoulder.
“Never thought I’d find this,” Seth finally broke the silence, his voice rich with emotion. “With you.”
“Life’s funny that way,” Brenda replied. “Takes a turn when you least expect it.”
“Guess we’re proof of that,” he said.
“Sure are, cowboy,” Brenda teased lightly.
“Ready for whatever comes next?” Seth asked.
“Always,” Brenda answered, her confidence ringing true in the quiet night.
