Cupcake Explosion (Cupcakes 4)

“Ready to become my woman?” he asked with a grin.

“I already am,” I replied.

To which he growled, “Damn straight.”

We’d opted for the short version of the ceremony, so within minutes, we were saying I do, Elin and Elena included, and then Cade was claiming me for all the world to see.

His hands fisted in my curls and his eyes were dark with intent as he lowered his head and captured my lips with his. This was no proper peck on the lips, no, it went from zero to a hundred real quick, and pretty soon the sound of our guests cheering intruded on our public make-out session.

We turned and faced the crown, both grinning like fools. Cade took my hand in his, and raised them both up in victory, which caused more shouts from our friends and family.

We walked down the aisle, hand in hand, with the twins holding our free hands, and headed up the hill to where the reception was being held. Within minutes, we were surrounded by everyone, wishing us congratulations.

There was a large platform set up for dancing, with the DJ equipment off to the side. On the side of that there were round tables and chairs set up, with white clothes and beautiful flowers from Hawaii. The head table was situated in the middle of the round tables, because we wanted to be in the middle of everyone, rather than off to the side. And, finally, on the opposite side was the buffet setup, including the giant roasted pig.

It was pretty, simple, and perfect.

“Thanks for decorating, it looks amazing,” I told Cade’s mom after giving her a kiss on the cheek.

“Oh, of course, it was my pleasure,” she replied. “And your friends were such a big help. They helped with the food, the flowers, and the decorations. You’re very lucky to have so many wonderful friends.”

“I know,” I agreed, my cheeks already hurting from how much smiling I was doing.

I couldn’t help it though. I couldn’t stop, I was too happy.

Everyone was milling around, mingling and having a good time. Enjoying the open bar that Cade had insisted on having. And I was taking it all in. The smiling faces, the laughter, the diversity of our group.

That’s when I saw it . . . At the end of the buffet, on the opposite side of the pig . . . the cake.

I drifted toward it as if in a dream, my mouth watering and my eyes glazing over.

It was three tiers, covered in ivory fondant, with pearls accenting each layer, and purple, yellow, and white plumeria flowers cascading down the tiers.

“Do you like it?” Amy May asked from beside me.

“I love it. It’s beautiful. What’s inside?” I asked.

“This tier is chocolate, this one coffee, and this one, is chai.”

“Oh, chai,” I moaned. “My favorite.”

Amy May chuckled.

“I know.”

“You know, you’re going to have to share that cake with everyone here,” Cade said, coming up on my other side.

I glared at him.

“I know that,” I said, although it came out more like a pout.

He laughed deep, from his belly.

“Don’t worry, I made a cupcake cake, too. All Chai, just for you,” my best friend said.

I turned to her and beamed.

“And, this is why I love you.”