Page 110 of Only You

Jack beamed at her.

Eileen gazed at Kayla with tears in her eyes. “Welcome to the family.”

Kayla’s throat caught as she gave Eileen a tight hug.

“If he gives you any more trouble, you come see me,” John said gruffly.

Kayla chuckled. “I will.”

“Me too,” said Tim. Then he patted Jack on the back with a little more force than necessary.

“It’s about damn time,” Ryan said. “After all the hell you put me through, I better be your best man.”

Jack grinned. “Who else would I choose?”

Josie hugged Kayla tightly. “I told you everything would work out.”

“Did you know about this too?” Kayla asked her.

“No. I was just as surprised as you were. I’m so happy for you.”

“Happy enough to be my maid of honor?”

“I’d love to!” Josie said.

After everyone was seated and had ordered drinks and appetizers, Kayla glanced around the table. The only ones missing from the celebration were her brother and sister-in-law, but she would see them soon for Christmas. Kayla couldn’t wait to introduce them to Jack, knowing he’d charm them like he had everyone else.

While Sue and Eileen discussed wedding ideas, Jack reached for Kayla’s left hand underneath the table and gave it a squeeze. Then he twisted the ring as if to make sure it was still firmly in place. She squeezed back, assuring him that this was real, and she wasn’t going anywhere.

When the server delivered their drinks and appetizers, and everyone was distracted, Jack leaned in and whispered, “I can’t wait to be alone with you so I can show you how much I love you.”

“We haven’t even eaten dinner yet!” she scolded him.

“I don’t dare get in the way of your food,” he teased.

“Are you going to harass me about this when we’re married?”

“Without a doubt.”

Kayla smiled so big her cheeks hurt. Love. Laughter. Family. Friends. Her heart was full.