1102 Sugar Rd. (Cherry Falls)

“I’m fine. This is just precautionary. The station would have put me on paid administrative leave, anyway, if I weren’t already put on desk duty.” He’s told me this song and dance. Anytime there’s a gunshot fired of any type, the officer, whether it be a sheriff or deputy, has to go through protocol.

“That doesn’t mean you’re magically healed.” Logan is with Beau and Lily tonight, so we’ve got the house to ourselves. I’ve been picking up here and there. Graham is puttering on non-existent projects, because let’s face it, all week I’ve come home to something being repaired.

“I have a cock that says otherwise.” Graham grabs me by the waist and places me on his lap. I smack his shoulder lightly but giggle like a schoolgirl.

“Oh, I know all about that. I could barely get out of bed this morning, much less walk.” After I had Logan, the doctor asked me if I wanted any more children. I, of course, wasn’t in my right mind, like most new moms, and told her I had no idea. So, I didn’t get on anything birth control wise since there was no one around to need it. Six months ago, I knew Graham would eventually weasel his way into my heart, so I made an appointment with my doctor and immediately started birth control. Graham and I are definitely reaping those rewards now.

“Then I did my job, which I’ll be doing again tonight. Though, I’m not sure I like how quiet it is in the house without Logan here.” I snuggle into his chest, sighing in agreement.

“I know. I feel the same way, but sometimes, it’s a good break for not just me but also Logan.” I kiss his throat, thinking about just what’s going to happen tonight, not having to close the door or be as quiet as a mouse.

“Already talked to Logan about this, so now I’m going to talk to you. I think it’s clear that you know what not only you but Logan means to me. Chased after you a long time. Would do it all again if it meant I’m right where I belong, but I want it official.”

“What do you mean you talked to Logan?” I ask, perplexed.

Graham pulls a ring off his pinky finger. Clearly, I was oblivious for not seeing it and not understanding what he’s going after until my hand is in his and he’s sliding a gold band wrapped with diamonds all the way around on my ring finger.

“Just that. I asked him if I was allowed to marry you. Which, baby, you already know how he feels about us. Now I’m asking you. Faith Bridges, will you make me the happiest man on earth and marry me?” I don’t respond. Instead, I kiss him with everything I have to give. All my hopes, dreams, everything a woman could ever ask for go into the kiss, and when he stands up, my legs wrapping around his waist, I’m not thinking about his injury or the ring he placed on my finger. I’m so incredibly happy having Graham that he could ask me to move to Timbuktu and I wouldn’t blink my eyes.

“Does that mean yes?” He pulls away from my lips after carrying me to the bedroom, my back meeting the mattress.

“Yes!” I reply, then we’re fighting over getting our clothes off. I’m sure I’ll really be walking bowlegged tomorrow.

Twenty

Graham

Two Weeks Later

“Hey, Beau, thanks for bringing Faith home,” I tell him as I meet his vehicle in the driveway. Faith, Lily, and Wren decided to have a girls’ night out to plan our wedding.

“No problem. It was on my way, anyhow, and it keeps you from having to drag Logan out of bed. Word of the wise, give her some water and medicine tonight. The girls hit the margaritas hard tonight, and boy, are they in for a world of hurt tomorrow, along with your wallet,” Beau jokes.

“That bad, huh?” I unbuckle Faith. She’s passed out asleep and Lily is barely awake.

“Oh yeah. Flowers this, suits that, cake with different flavors on each tier, and most of Cherry Falls would be invited. Not sure if that was the alcohol talking or the dream of a young girl. Either way, it’s your wallet,” Beau explains.

“It’s worth it. Wren got picked up by Caleb, I take it?”

“That it is. Nothing better than watching your woman walk down the aisle, eyes only for you. I remember it like yesterday.” Beau nods, stuck in memory lane, so I pick up Sleeping Beauty from the backseat. She’s a limp noodle, and I end up picking Faith up in a fireman’s hold in order to keep her from falling all over the place.

“I’m ready. If she’d get shit planned the way she wants it, we’d be married already. She’s got two more months, and then I’m marching her ass to the courthouse. Thanks again, Beau,” I tell him.