Total pages in book: 59
Estimated words: 55832 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 279(@200wpm)___ 223(@250wpm)___ 186(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 55832 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 279(@200wpm)___ 223(@250wpm)___ 186(@300wpm)
“I don’t know that we needed the big production, but I’m happy for you guys,” Callum says, taking a bite of his food with a nonchalant shrug.
My brother, the true romantic, I think with a smirk.
“Well, I’m just glad there are no more secrets. Love should never be hidden,” my mother says, her voice filled with emotion.
“Never again,” I promise, kissing Willow’s cheek tenderly. Her smile in response is worth everything.
Anya suddenly stands up, holding her hands to her chest as if to contain her excitement. “Griffin and I are engaged!” she shouts, extending her hand to show off the sparkling ring.
“Oh my God!” my mother exclaims, leaping to her feet with tears in her eyes. She rushes over to Anya, embracing her in a tight hug, her joy palpable.
The room erupts into a chorus of cheers and congratulations, everyone gathering around Anya and Griffin to admire the ring and share in their happiness. It's a beautiful, chaotic moment, filled with laughter and heartfelt sentiments.
“Holy shit, congratulations,” I say.
“Bitch, you were mad at me for not telling you about Brock and you’re engaged?” Willow says, smiling. “I better be the maid of honor.”
I laugh as we all exchange hugs.
“Wow, it just keeps coming,” Callum says, giving a quick hug to Anya and Griffin. “Happy for you guys.”
“Love has no boundaries,” Tripp says, congratulating the newly engaged couple with a sincerity that catches me off guard.
I glance at Callum, my brow furrowing in confusion. That doesn't sound like something Tripp would normally say. Callum meets my gaze, shrugs, and sits back down to continue eating. I guess all the love talk is a bit too much for him.
“When did this happen?” Willow asks, her curiosity piqued.
“The night of the wedding. When we got back to the room, Griffin got down on one knee,” Anya says, her face lighting up with excitement.
“Another wedding. My heart is so full,” my mother says, bouncing August on her knee, her joy almost tangible.
Just then, Shepherd stands up with a sheepish smile. “Well, this might sound crazy, but Felicity and I eloped in Vegas. We’re married now.”
“Fucking hell,” Callum grumbles, rolling his eyes.
“What?” my mother shouts, her voice a mix of shock and excitement.
“You’re kidding?” I say, laughing at the unexpected announcement.
“Nope. We decided we just wanted to get married without the fuss. It was perfect,” Shepherd says, looking down at Felicity with a tender smile.
“Well damn, congratulations,” I say, genuinely happy for them.
“Wow, I’m so happy for you guys,” Willow adds, her eyes shining with joy.
“Way to take away from my announcement, but I’m incredibly happy for you guys,” Anya says, rushing over to hug Shepherd and Felicity, her initial mock irritation melting into genuine happiness.
“Our family is growing by leaps and bounds. I’m so grateful,” my dad says, wrapping an arm around my mom and kissing her cheek, his eyes misting with emotion.
The room buzzes with excitement and love, everyone talking over one another to share their congratulations and well wishes. The atmosphere is electric, filled with the warmth of family and the promise of new beginnings. I only wish Paxton and Hartford were here to witness it as well.
As I look around at my family, each face reflecting the joy and love that fill this moment, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. I squeeze Willow’s hand, our fingers interlacing naturally. She leans in closer, her head resting on my shoulder.
“This is what it’s all about,” I whisper to her.
She nods, her eyes glistening with happiness. “Absolutely.”
“We need to celebrate,” my mother shouts, holding her hands out wide.
“I’ll plan something,” Anya says, sitting back down.
“No, it’s not necessary,” Felicity rushes out.
“You’re an Atwood now. You should realize everything is celebrated and there’s nothing you can do to stop it,” Callum says.
“Yeah, welcome to the family, officially. You’re stuck with us now,” I say, wrapping my arm around Willow. “You’re stuck with us too, baby. I don’t need to get down on one knee or sweep you off to Vegas to make that clear. One day, I will, but right now I’ll show you in other ways,” I whisper, kissing the soft skin below her ear.
“I’m so happy for everyone. Love is in the air and it seems to be contagious,” Tripp says.
“Something you wanna tell us?” I ask, staring at him.
He takes a sip of his drink and offers a sly smirk. “Nope,” he says, popping the ‘p’ sound.