“I’m not wearing a wedding gown. I did that once, remember?”
“Mistakes don’t count,” Eve retorted. “When do you want to start looking at patterns?”
Sierra looked to Kaden for assistance. Deciding to be Mr. Wonderful, he stepped in. “She can get married in anything she wants. She’d look beautiful in a potato sack.”
“And where’s your ring?” Eve asked, ignoring his sack suggestion. “Kaden said he asked you to marry him.”
“I haven’t accepted it yet.”
Kaden saw the heat creeping up Sierra’s face. “When Sierra’s ready, she’ll show you the ring.”
“Did you get one, too?”
“Of course. I am definitely an equal opportunity wedding ring wearer.”
Eve smiled, then pulled her younger cousin into her arms. “I’m worried about you, you know.”
Kaden shifted from foot to foot. He had no siblings, no parents, no relatives. Except for Colby, Andy, and Andy’s parents, Kaden had been close to no one for most of his life. The caring family bond between Eve and Sierra didn’t make him uneasy, just an interloper.
“He’s not Tim,” Eve whispered.
Kaden turned his head, pretending great interest in a shirt—a tunic, he’d been told. His nerves were stretched thin as he waited for Sierra to confirm or negate.
“I know.”
“You take good care of my cousin,” Eve instructed, looking directly into Kaden’s eyes. “Or you’ll have to answer to me.”
He tipped an imaginary hat. “Wouldn’t dream of doing anything else.”
Sierra moved away when Eve said, “Go home. Doctor said you needed to rest, not work. Doesn’t that fiancé of yours know any better?”
“She’s tenacious,” he murmured to Sierra a couple minutes later when he was assisting her back into the SUV.
“Yes, she is,” Sierra agreed, grinning indulgently.
For a minute, he wished he’d had a family member who cared. “Since we’re in town, would you like to grab something?”
“Food?”
“As much as you can consume.”
“You may live to regret those words.”
“Try me,” he said, sliding behind the wheel and turning the key. He put the manual transmission into reverse, then felt his heart skip a beat when her hand covered his.
It was the first time she’d reached out to him unprovoked.
“Thank you for today—for being patient. I—I know this has to be agitating for you.”
“Sierra—”
“No, wait,” she said, scrambling the words together. “I need to say this. You’re right about everything, about out child never having to worry about who Daddy is—not that I would have let that occur. And...” She drew her hand back and looked at him. “I’m ready.”
He eased the transmission back to park. “Ready?”
She fumbled with the seatbelt. “To wear your ring and tell everyone we’re getting married.”
Marriage to Sierra would be many things, he knew. Boring wouldn’t be one of them. Trying to hold back his excitement, the protective surge that rushed through him, he took her shoulders in his hands, touching her, he hoped, with tenderness and assurance. “You won’t regret this.”
She pulled her lower lip between her teeth.
And then before he could stop himself, he leaned in closer, determined to take away the apprehension and pain, and to hell with anyone who was looking.
Chapter Seven
“Don’t you know it is bad luck to see the bride before the wedding?” Eve chastised.
“I’m not a traditional kind of guy,” Kaden retorted through the closed guest room door.
“You are when it benefits you,” Sierra replied.
“Come on, Sierra, have a little empathy.”
“Empathy?”
She was softening. He heard the accidence in her voice.
“Empathy for what?”
“I’m dying of nerves out here.”
He heard the women whispering. His insides were wound tighter than a door spring. He was desperate to assure himself she wouldn’t change her mind.
The last three weeks had been the longest of his life as he’d struggled with anxiety over the possibility she’d walk out on him, turning her back on the things that mattered to him the same way his mother, then Leah, had done. It didn’t matter how many times he told himself Sierra had principle. Dubiousness hovered, tormenting.
About a week ago, Sierra had moved back home and gotten her house ready for sale. He’d actually courted his bride-to-be, and they’d gone to every restaurant in town. She wore his ring, but hadn’t responded directly when he asked if she wore it even when they weren’t together.
They’d finalized their wedding plans—for a simple ceremony performed by Vernon Miller. They’d be married in Kaden’s home—in the living room—a place where, to Kaden’s astonishment, Sierra felt at ease.
Andy Dunn would be his best man. Sierra’s cousin would be her maid of honor. Their only other guests would be Andy’s parents, Colby Blake, Hillary Dunn, and Sierra’s parents—patents who had asked him what his intentions were a thousand different ways before they finally blessed the union.
“You can talk to her.” Eve grudgingly gave in, cracking the door open. “But you can’t see her.”
Telling himself that at least she was in the guest bedroom and wasn’t threatening to escape, he agreed.
Fabric rustled, then gently, very gently, Sierra said, “I’m here.”
His heart began to race. “I was scared you wouldn’t be.” He hadn’t planned to admit that to anyone, not even Andy.”
“Big, bad Kaden Stasso?”
He hadn’t felt that way in the last forty-eight hours. “I wanted to give you something before we get married.”
“Kaden—”
“Just open your hand. Trust me,” he insisted when she didn’t immediately do it.
Finally, she did, and he noticed her nails were painted a subtle red that reminded him, instantly and painfully, of the one night they’d shared. She’d had painted fingernails then, too, along with painted toenails.
His stomach clenched, and he wondered how he’d get through the next few hours.
He took the old, battered button from his pocket and put it in her palm, then cupped her fingers closed. “It’s the only thing I could think of,” he mumbled. He felt like an idiot talking to a wooden door, felt even more idiotic giving the memento to her. “It fell off my favorite jacket when I was eleven. It’s been my good luck charm ever since. I wanted you to have it.”
He wished he had a family heirloom to give her, something from his history that meant a lot and would represent a symbol of their commitment to each other. But his mother had only been committed to whichever man would have her.
Sierra pulled her hand inside the room, and more than anything, he wanted to see her expression. Would she laugh the way Leah had any time he’d attempted to express himself?
“Kaden, I—I don’t know what to say.”
He closed his eyes.
“I am deeply moved by this.”
“You are?”
The door opened a little wider.
“Sierra! Don’t let him see you!”
She didn’t pay any attention to her cousin, pulling the door a fraction of an inch wider. Her eyes met his, and their deep breaths spoke words she never would.
His heart started to beat again. Sierra wasn’t laughing at him. More, she seemed to know how much the simple gift meant.
“I’ll keep it safe. I promise.”
He believed her.
“Thank you, Kaden.”
He grinned, and the worry eating at him disappeared. Not about to resist, he brought her hand to his lips, and brushed a light kiss there. Even that was enough to rekindle the desire he’d done his best to put on the back burner.
“Hey, man. Vernon’s ready for you,” Andy stated, coming down the hallway.
Andy placed a hand on
Kaden’s shoulder, and the tightening in his gut returned, surging through him spreading all over his skin.
“The two of you can sweet talk and kiss each other all night long, after the nuptials,” Andy continued. “But you’ve got guests. Say goodbye for now.”
“Bye,” she whispered.
Before he had the chance to respond, she smiled, then closed the door.
“I gave her my lucky button,” Kaden said.
Andy arched a brow in his direction. “This is serious.”
“She didn’t make fun of me.”
Andy stopped walking, forcing Kaden to stop as well. “Did you think that she would?”
“Sierra? No.”
“You’re a lucky man. Awesome woman like that, great dancer, in love with you—”
“Love?” Kaden repeated. “She’s not in love with me.”
“You’re kidding me, right?”
“We are getting married because of the baby. No other reason.”
Andy mumbled a word that Ruth Dunn would have washed his mouth out for. “Then why did you give her the only thing in this world that has any significance to you?”
“Because—ah, damn, Andy, don’t make something of it that isn’t there.”
“After the honeymoon, give me a call. We’ll have a couple of beers, talk about your stupidity.”
“This isn’t the real thing.”
“Stubborn jackass. You wouldn’t know the real thing if it jumped up and bit you in the ass. You do anything to hurt her and friend or no friend, I’ll rearrange your limbs myself.”
“You won’t need to.”
“Yeah. I believe you.” Andy smiled.
Every since Andy had married Hillary, he’d become protective of all women. Sometimes Kaden barely recognized his old friend. Who’d have thought it? Andy, of all people. That’s what love did to men—made fools out of them.
And Kaden Stasso had sworn he’d never be a food again. That determination didn’t prevent his heart from going into overdrive when he saw the pastor and their guests in the living room.
Sierra’s mother clutched a handkerchief like she had the night she and her husband had traveled to Kaden’s home to pay him a visit. His vow to take care of their daughter, along with his promise to Andy, echoed in Kaden’s head.
He had no intention of harming Sierra, ever. But creeping in behind that thought was the awareness that he’d never believed his relationship with Leah would dissolve either. Marriage was a heck of a commitment, but one he was willing to make.
“Last chance to change your mind,” Andy stated softly.
“My child will have my name.”
Andy smiled and nudged his friend as they made their way into the living room. “I thought so.”
Several moments later, at a signal from Reverend Miller, Kaden turned to see Eve coming down the stairs. But he couldn’t stop straining for a glimpse at Sierra.
Standing at the landing, she didn’t disappoint. Moreover, she shocked him.
Her eyes, wide, hazel and bright, sought his. Without saying a word, she communicated how big a step this was for her. With a nod, he tried to reassure her, let her know he wouldn’t let her down. Her attempt at a smile failed miserably.
One hand wrapped around the banister, she gradually began her descent. Her free hand clutched a bouquet of flowers. She wore a sparkling crystal and pearl hairpiece. He wanted to pluck it from the beautiful dark tresses, replace it with his fingers. He’d overhead Eve and Sierra discussing the design of the dress Sierra was going to wear, but he’d been ill-prepared for the way it would look on her.
It made it difficult for him to breathe.
A Grecian chiffon-style gown fell in soft folds from a beaded empire waist. The scoop neck and spaghetti straps were also edged with beads. The fluid skirt featured a split front and sweeping train. Beneath the fold of the dress, he spotted the slight curve of her stomach where his child grew, and his blood heated.
Instantly, Kaden’s patience disappeared. Leaving his designated spot, he made his way to her, meeting her at the bottom of the stairs and offering his arm.
“Thank you,” she said, peering up at him through her never ending eyelashes. “For coming to get me. It looked like a football field length away to cross the living room.”
“Sierra, I’ll always come to you.”
Even though she held the flowers, she grazed the curve of his cheek. Yearning swept through him. After today, she’d belong to him. She’d touch him more often, know she had that right. And he’d touch her.
“I’m glad I let Eve talk me into the dress.”
“Even if you’ve already worn one before?”
“Yes. I believe you also said I would look beautiful in it.”
“You do.”
“I agree.”
“You’re admitting I’m right?”
She licked her upper lip, removing some of the brownish-red gloss. He couldn’t wait to kiss the rest away.
“You might have had a good idea,” she stated.
“Come on, Sierra, admit it. I was right.”
“Everyone’s capable, once.”
He smiled.
“The suit was a good idea, as well.”
“I’ve been told I clean up well.”
“You don’t look that bad even when...”
“Yes?”
“Never mind.”
The heated flush that tinted her cheeks was adorable.
“I’m ready,” she whispered.
Her hand tucked into the protective crook of his arm, they walked toward the fireplace.
His heart sparking an emotional response that made his words fluctuate, Kaden recited his vows—vows they’d written, along with Vernon’s assistance.
There was no promise to love or to obey. Instead, they swore they’d allow each other to be their own person. Each promised to honor and be faithful. In his opinion, those were the important things.
Sierra said her oath earnestly, staring into his eyes the entire time. He slid her ring onto her finger without her pulling away. And then she placed a plain gold band on his finger, and the tables were turned. He felt the weight of their commitment and realized that this wouldn’t be like his first marriage, where trust had been destroyed. This would have no pretenses and truth would be a must. More importantly, he’d make it work, no matter what it took.
Vernon pronounced them husband and wife, then added, “You may kiss your bride.”
Kaden did.
* * * *
And it wasn’t the chaste customary kiss she had prepared for.
He took off his hat and drew her into his arms, pulling her close, closer than they’d been since the night he’d slowly removed each article of clothing from her body, baring her to him.
Oblivious to the people around them, she responded to his kiss, going up on her tiptoes and wrapping her arms around his neck. Even as she submitted, she also dominated. Andy clapped, Eve cheered, her parents sighed, Hillary clasped her hands over her heart, Vernon Miller smiled indulgently, and Colby shifted uncomfortably.
And when Sierra looked at Kaden, it was to see a crooked grin that could melt stone. It didn’t matter that her stomach turned every way but right side up; she returned his smile. In this moment, life was perfect. And she wouldn’t let anything take that feeling, not even her own insecurities.
Kaden lasted about half an hour before drawing her into a corner and inquiring about how long he had to put up with all of these people.
“And to think you wanted a huge church wedding?”
“Must have suffered a momentary lapse of sanity. So how long, Sierra?”
She licked her lips, looking over at her parents. They’d already given their blessing. She’d mingled with their guests.
“How about now?”
With a big smile, he swept her off her feet, into his arms, holding her against his chest.
“Kaden! Put me down! You’ll hurt your back.”
“Then you’ll have to rub
it for me.”
She grabbed hold of his shoulders as he turned in the direction of the door.
“Please stay and enjoy yourselves,” he told their guest. “We’ve got a honeymoon to get to.”
Amid shouts of well wishes, he carried her outside to the waiting vehicle. Somehow, it had been decorated with cans, streamers and messages, one saying, Honk! Just Married!
“Payback for me doing this to Andy’s truck a year ago,” Kaden muttered, trying to open the door and hold onto her at the same time.
Even the inside of the vehicle had been decorated with balloons and confetti.
He finally managed to get the door open, and she brushed confetti from the seat, laughing for the first time in a long time. Ever since she’d found out she was expecting, she’d been through an infinite amount of different emotions—excitement, indecision about if she was good enough, amazement. A balloon swayed with the wind and bumped up against her head. This was enjoyable, extremely exhilarating.
Kaden held onto her, even after he’d slid her onto the seat.
“Now what’s this about a honeymoon?” she questioned.
“Surprise.”
“You meant it?”
“Of course.”
“But I didn’t pack any clothes.”
“I had Eve take care of everything you’ll need.”
“Everything?”
“Toothbrush, deodorant, shampoo, swimsuit—”
“Swimsuit?”
“Yes. A bikini.” He winked at her. “Unless you’re a person that likes skinny dipping.”
“As in naked?”
“I know no other definition.”
“When I’m already starting to show?”
“With our child, therefore, I can’t think of anything sexier.”
A hot chill traveled up her spine. If she didn’t stay on her guard, this man might steal her heart. “Where are we going?” she asked, the words almost a whisper.
“The Haymoon Ranch Resort.”
“I haven’t heard of it.”
“Then you’re in for a special treat.” He shut the door, then fought the balloons himself as he climbed in beside her.
“Kaden?”
“Yes?”
“You didn’t say that you had Eve pack me any clothes or pajamas.”
The Price of Passion Page 9
