“It’s not too late to back out.” Landon’s text read, then a second text message came through. “You know, I’ve been waiting for the day you suddenly wake up and realize what you’re doing. It’s okay if it’s now.”
Robert’s heart drummed in his chest as he read the concern in Landon’s words. He had no doubt that Landon loved him. Every single day, his mister made sure he knew exactly how cherished he was, yet his lovely Landon still tried to give him an out. He shook his head and smiled at the words on the screen. Robert could feel his cheeks warming. Someone must have noticed because Kylie’s weight lifted from his arms. His whole focus remained on the phone in his hand.
“Quit trying to quit me,” he typed and pushed send. His phone vibrated seconds later.
“Really? Quoting Brokeback at a time like this?” He could almost hear Landon’s testy, teasing tone as he read the words. God, he loved that man.
“Are you nervous? Do I need to come get you and bring you out here myself?” Robert asked and took a step toward the golf cart, ready to do that very thing.
“We’re on our way. The pastor was late, but here now. Your grandmother is making me call her Nonnie or I get in trouble.”
That had Robert stopping his movement back to the golf cart, his grin stretching from ear to ear when the next text came through.
“She wants everyone sitting and you standing close to the arch. She’s directed me to tell you to get there. She suspects you’re talking with the family. Something about you’ve always had a problem minding…”
His grin dimmed a bit as he slid his phone inside his jacket breast pocket, reluctantly heading the direction his Nonnie had insisted on, instead of waiting at the entrance, an idea he’d just come up with, hoping to catch a glimpse of Landon when he drove up with his grandmother and the pastor.
“I’ve been told to ask everyone to please take their seats,” he said distractedly over his shoulder.
“He’s not normally like this,” Autumn whispered loud enough to make sure he heard. “He used to have nerves of steel. Right, Cam?” Autumn spoke a little louder this time, but Robert continued to ignore her. He kept his attention glued to the entrance as the golf cart’s front two wheels came into view.
“He did. Nothing rattled him.” Cam, who was usually quiet, said in agreement, proving they were having loads of fun at his expense.
A photographer rounded the corner first, camera in hand. Then the pastor took his spot next to Robert before instructing those still standing, “Please take a seat.”
Robert skimmed the length of his suit coat before he fisted his hands, refusing to give into the nervous energy racing through him. He straightened his jacket, shifting his weight to his left leg as he waited patiently. Through the cluster of trees, a soft gentle breeze caused the ribbons adorning the flower garlands to dance while cooling his sweat-dampened skin.
Robert buzzed with excitement, making his skin flush. He wasn’t sweating because of the heat. In fact, the day had turned out nicer than forecasted. No humidity, which was a blessing, especially in the summer. The sun even played its part, hiding every now and then behind the few puffy white clouds floating lazily across the endless blue sky.
The perfect day in his opinion—his and Landon’s perfect day to be exact.
He dropped his arms to his side and took a deep steadying breath as his grandmother then Landon came into view. The sight of the two caused his heart to melt. The anticipation he’d carried in his body loosened its grip and his muscles relaxed as he watched his soldier carefully offering his arm to support Kennedy’s walk into the ceremony.
Robert’s heart swelled with pride and overflowed with love. Not only was his future husband devastatingly handsome, he was loyal and compassionate, sweet and kind. The epitome of gallant. Robert’s cock plumped. Super sexy too. Landon kept his focus trained on making sure his Nonnie stayed sure-footed until she took her seat.
“Thank you, dear. You go be with Robert now.” Her voice carried, giving everyone a laugh as Landon’s cheeks darkened with color. The blush unleashed a swift but excited flutter of butterflies in his stomach. He’s mine. Landon is my forever.
Landon, the very definition of tall, dark, and handsome, had decided to go formal with his Air Force mess dress uniform. His soldier was certain to have turned a few heads wearing that uniform. When his future husband finally looked up, the deep concentration faded. His dark eyes quickly scanned the intimate area, no doubt taking everything in. But when Landon’s gaze locked on his, their souls embraced, and all Robert saw was the same wonderment reflected at him that he’d felt all day.