Friend Zone Series Box Set
Page 54
“Momma pretty,” came a stunned whisper from Carolina.
“I agree.”
Around me, the world began to fade. I only had eyes for Charlie. Vaguely, I heard whistles from Dash and Tripp from behind me, but it was drowned out by a buzzing in my ears. She’d been my wife for a while now, but I’d never been more grateful that she was mine. I couldn’t wait to shout it from the rooftops. To show her off to all of our family and friends. We’ve been meaning to do it for so long until I finally told her I wasn’t living another day without celebrating our life together. After the pandemic in 2020 cancelled our first wedding plans, it was about time.
When she made it to me, I couldn’t stop myself from reaching for her. Pulling her against me, I kissed her deeply, until she was as breathless as me. She blinked up at me, dazed.
“I don’t think we’re at that part yet,” she said.
“I couldn’t wait.”
Caro leaned forward and kissed Charlie’s cheek, too, then beamed at us both. I barely held it together with my arms around my girls as the officiant led us through the ceremony.
All too soon, it was my turn to say my vows. “I’m not sure there are words to describe how much my wife means to me, but I’m going to do my best.” I pulled out a slip of paper covered in scribbles and if Charlie noticed my hands shake, she didn’t mention it. “Charlie, I’m here today in front of our friends and family to give my vow to you. But one vow would never be enough. Instead, I promise to update our vows as we face life’s challenges together, because love is flexible. I promise to grow with you and to learn with you as we fall more in love each day. I feel like I’ve loved you my whole life and I promise to keep on loving you for the rest of it.”
Charlie’s eyes were red with unshed tears, but she was smiling so big it was blinding. “Liam, you’ve been my friend my whole life and I promise you here today in front of our friends and family that I will always be yours. I spent a lot of time feeling like I wasn’t lovable, but you taught me differently. I promise to spend our life together proving to you everyday how much I love you. Love is work. But most of all, love is realizing that every hour, every second is worth it because we’re together. You are worth everything. You’ve given me everything.” Her hands brush over Carolina’s cheek. “I promise to spend my life returning the favor.”
Acknowledgments
It’s been a some time since I published the first book in this series and it’s crazy how much my life has changed since then. This series was a bit of a departure from my normal fare of romantic suspense and alien romance. I don’t think I would have been able to keep it together if it weren’t for some very important people.
To Afton—who puts up with my incessant need to write at all hours of the day. I promise to try to be the mother you deserve.
To Mom—who has always given so much. I hope you know how much I truly appreciate all you’ve done for me.
To Charlie—for your encouragement, support, and inspiration. I’m looking forward to seeing what the future brings.
To Alana—for everything. One day we’ll actually meet.
To Melissa—always.
To the Team at Joy Editing, I appreciate you so much!
To my Knockouts! I love you guys.
To all the bloggers who’ve shared the Friend Zone Series, who’ve reviewed, and pimped, and Instagrammed—you’re angels. Each and every one of you. Thank you for doing what you do. I couldn’t do this without you!
And finally, to my readers. I’ve always wanted to be an author. Teenage me would like to thank you for making a dream come true. Each day I get to do what I love and it is largely because of your support. Thank you for reading, for cheering me on, and for enjoying my stories.
About the Author
Nicole Blanchard is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of gritty romantic suspense and heartwarming new adult romance. She and her family reside in the south along with menagerie of animals. Visit her website www.authornicoleblanchard.com for more information or to subscribe to her newsletter for updates on sales and new releases.
Also by Nicole Blanchard
First to Fight Series
Anchor
Warrior
Valor
Box Set: Books 1-3
Survivor
Savior
Honor
Box Set: Books 4-6
Traitor
Operator
Aviator
Captor
Protector
Armor
A Salvation Society Crossover: Reckless
Friend Zone Series
Friend Zone
Frenemies
Friends with Benefits
Box Set
The Lost Planet Series
The Forgotten Commander
The Vanished Specialist
The Mad Lieutenant
Journey to the Lost Planet (Books 1-3)
The Uncertain Scientist
The Lonely Orphan
The Rogue Captain
Return to the Lost Planet (Books 4-6)
The Determined Hero
The Arrogant Genius
The Runaway Alien
Saving the Lost Planet (Books 7-9)
Dark Romance
Toxic
An Immortal Fairy Tale Series
Deal with the Dragon
Vow to the Vampire
Kiss from the King
Standalone Novellas
Bear with Me
Darkest Desires
Mechanical Hearts