Page 147 of Reputation (Tempt)

I was incredibly touched by his obvious intent to include my family—my parents and grandparents, especially—in his blessing and acceptance of our marriage.

Declan swiped away a tear as he placed Emerson’s hand in mine. I thanked him, hoping he would know how much his words meant to me.

And then I placed my full attention back on my bride. My future wife.

I leaned in and whispered, “You look beautiful,” to Emerson.

She was my rose, and I would’ve gone through everything I had and more just to be with her.

I nearly kissed her when Pierce cleared his throat. “I think we’re getting a little ahead of ourselves.”

Everyone chuckled, including me. And I kept Emerson’s hands in mine as Pierce started his speech. I wouldn’t have expected him to be as sentimental as he was, but it was fitting for the occasion.

We recited our vows. The entire time, I couldn’t take my eyes off Emerson. She was breathtaking. And she looked so happy. I couldn’t wait to spend the rest of my life with her.

When I looked closer at the dress, I realized that the lace flowers were roses. I loved that she’d woven something so significant to us into the dress she was wearing to marry me. I also couldn’t wait to strip it off her and shower my wife with affection.

“Dad,” Brooklyn gasped. “It’s snowing.”

Emerson turned to look outside, but my eyes never left her. She delighted in the snow, the fat flakes falling softly to the ground outside.

Emerson took a breath and then held out her hand to Brooklyn, inviting her to join our circle. I held Brooklyn’s other hand in mine, completing the link.

“Brooklyn.” Emerson smiled at Brooklyn.

Brooklyn tilted her head. We hadn’t told her about this part of the ceremony. About the vows Emerson wanted to make to my daughter as well.

“I’m marrying your dad today, but I also want to make some promises to you.”

Brooklyn nodded, peering up at Emerson with such adoration, it made my chest ache. I’d been so happy when the adoption paperwork had been finalized last month—we all had. We’d had a big celebration in honor of it.

“I promise to always love and support you,” Emerson said. “To encourage you and listen to you. To be there for you. In my heart, you are my child, and I willalwayslove you.” Emerson swiped away a tear. “Always,” she said emphatically and in a low tone.

Brooklyn threw her arms around Emerson. “I love you too, Emmy.”

By this point, nearly everyone was crying. After everything we’d been through—losing my parents at such a young age, Trinity’s betrayal, her abandonment of Brooklyn—this happy ending was long overdue. I hugged both of them, filled with so much love and happiness.

Pierce cleared his throat. “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss.”

I wrapped my arms around Emerson, bending her back in a dramatic bow. And then I kissed her deeply, passionately. Trying to convey all the love I had for this woman and all the hopes I had for our future.

Everyone cheered, Brooklyn loudest of all.

I’d always loved Christmas, and this was one I’d never forget. What Emerson had given Brooklyn and me was better than any gift I’d ever received. Encouragement. Trust. Love. Hope.

I smiled and grabbed Brooklyn’s hand, and the three of us walked back down the aisle as a family. Because that’s what we were.

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