We haven’t started to plan the wedding yet, but obviously, Aspen assumes we’ll marry in Montana.
“I honestly don’t know if that’s possible,” I say, sitting back in my chair thoughtfully.
“If what’s possible?” Aspen asks.
“Marrying out of the country. I don’t think a royal descendant ever has. Do you, Freddy?”
“Not that I’m aware of,” he says. “But that doesn’t mean it’s out of the question.”
“I hadn’t considered having a huge wedding like Liam and Ellie,” Aspen says. “It’s just not my style.”
“I understand,” Catherine says. “Were you thinking a smaller, country wedding?”
“Yes, with close family and friends, and no press.”
“Well, this might take some convincing for Father,” Freddy says. “The citizens will be disappointed if they don’t get well-publicized nuptials.”
“What if it’s a compromise?” Catherine asks. “A small, private ceremony and a party in Montana, and then a larger reception later here in London?”
“It sounds like the perfect scenario,” I agree and reach for Aspen’s hand. “What do you think?”
“It’s definitely a good compromise. I’m sorry I assumed. I guess I’m still getting used to everything. I’ve never had to worry about the press before.”
“We have people to worry about the press for us,” Freddy says with a wink. “You just live your life, Aspen.”
“That’s my plan.”* * *It’s been a busy week for her. I can see the exhaustion in her eyes as we take the helicopter to Edinburgh for the hospital opening. She’s absolutely beautiful in a navy-blue dress, her hair loose around her shoulders.
This is our first official public event together. I know she’s nervous, but there’s no need to be.
“Just smile and wave,” I remind her. “They’re not allowed to touch you or ask for a photo with you. You can shake hands if you like.”
“Got it.” She nods and offers me a reassuring smile. I’ve already run through the schedule of events, and we should be in and out in just over an hour. We’ll get a tour of the facilities and meet with some of the patients. Then I’ll cut the ribbon, we’ll pose for photos, and call it a day.
“Are you ready to go back to Montana?”
“Will it hurt your feelings if I say yes?”
“Not in the least. I’m ready to get back myself.”
The helicopter touches down on the helipad of the roof of the hospital, and we’re escorted inside. The next hour is filled with a tour, meeting patients, and posing for photos.
Aspen is wonderful with the patients, asking questions, and engaging with them. She has a knack for speaking with strangers, which is probably one of the reasons Drips & Sips does so well.
Finally, we’re escorted outside to the front of the building where the paparazzi are camped out, waiting to take photos of me cutting the ribbon and making a speech.
Having Aspen by my side for all of it is the best feeling ever.
Just as we turn to leave, one of the media members, someone I’ve known for a long time, calls out to us.
“I never pegged you as someone gullible enough to fall for a gold digger, Callum.”
I turn back and narrow my eyes at the man, who’s currently smirking at me. The crowd has gone silent, waiting for my response.
“Mr. Parsons is now permanently removed from the media ticket,” I announce to my team. “And if anyone else has anything inflammatory to say about my fiancée, speak up now so I know who to blackball.”
No one else says a word as we turn to walk away. I hear Parsons complaining behind me, but I don’t turn to engage with him further.
Because if I did, I’d likely break his blasted nose.
“Let it roll off, remember?” Aspen whispers to me and squeezes my hand. “They don’t matter.”
“I want to kick his arse,” I mutter. “And yes, I realize I need to follow my advice. I’ll get there.”
“Let’s go home, Callum.”
“That’s the best idea I’ve heard all day.”Chapter 15~Aspen~I’ve been back in Montana for seventy-two hours, and I’m slammed. Gretchen hasn’t been in to work since I arrived, calling out every single day. Wendy and Rachel are both on vacation, a scheduling snafu made by me, so it’s just Paula and me here.
“Paula, I need you to go see if we have more scones in the back.”
My new hire, who’s been here for a month and should be fully trained by now, blinks at me. “Are those still on the second shelf?”
I take a deep breath so I don’t snap at her. I don’t want to snap at her. We all learn at different paces, and she’s excellent with the customers. But this is not the week for this.
“Yes, ma’am. Just grab everything that’s there. I don’t know why we’re so busy today, but everyone in town has decided this is the hot spot, and we’re shorthanded.”
“Okay.” She hurries into the stock room, and I turn to the next customer in line, surprised to see my fiancé standing before me.