Parker nodded. “It was meant to be a romantic surprise.”
Cadence stood up from her chair and moved toward him.
“I would have loved for you to propose to me, Parker. I think it would have been the highlight of my life.” She leaned down and pressed a kiss on his forehead.
“Would you have said yes?” he asked. He’d wondered about it for the past three years. He might as well find out tonight.
Her eyes widened. “Of course I would have said yes. I was crazy about you. And I would have happily agreed to be your wife, Parker. There’s no question about it.”
**
Cadence took a deep breath and forged ahead. If she was going to seize the moment, she needed to lay it all on the line. She would leave no words unspoken. Parker had been brave three years ago when he’d planned to propose to her. Now, it was her turn.
Tears coursed down Cadence’s cheeks. She needed strength at this moment. She couldn’t fall apart when she was laying it all on the line with Parker. She’d come to terms with moving on with her life if Parker didn’t want to be with her. If she believed anything in this world, Cadence believed everyone had the right to be with whomever they wanted to. You couldn’t force a person to love you back.
“There hasn’t been a time in the last three years when I haven’t loved you, Parker. And I can’t see a time when that’s going to stop. I’m not ever going to stop loving you, even if we can’t be together.”
Love didn’t sit on a shelf waiting for a person. Three years was a long time to put your heart on ice. Even if Parker rejected her, she’d spoken her truths.
“You love me?” Parker asked, his voice filled with wonder.
“Yes, I do,” she said. “Very much.”
“And you always have?”
She nodded. “Yes, I have.”
He reached out and traced the shape of her lips with his finger. “And you always will?”
“I always will,” she whispered.
A stunning smile broke out over Parker’s face. It seemed as if he was lit up from the inside. “That’s pretty spectacular, since I feel the exact same way about you. I’ve loved you since the moment I first saw you. Three years ago I wanted to make you my bride. Then the bottom fell out of my world when you broke up with me. I stuffed the pain down for a long time and I pretended it hadn’t broken me to lose you.” He ran his palm across her cheek. “The moment you showed up at my house I knew those feelings hadn’t died. I knew without a shadow of a doubt that I still loved you. And that I always will.”
Cadence let out a squeal of delight. “Oh Parker. I’m so happy. When I showed up here it was in order to get Logan back. I never dared to dream we would get back together. To be honest, I was too afraid to dream that big.”
“This isn’t a dream, Cadence,” he said, standing up and placing his arms around her waist. He pulled her toward him and placed a soulful kiss on her lips. “I want to marry you and make a family with the three of us—me, you and Logan.”
“If that’s a proposal, the answer is yes,” Cadence said. “If you want, I’ll say it over and over again.”
Parker let out a deep-throated chuckle. “That’s not necessary. Once was all I ever needed or wanted. Thank you for coming back into my life and loving me. My life wasn’t the same without you in it.”
“Oh, Parker,” Cadence said, sniffling back tears. “We’re going to be so happy, aren’t we?”
“Without a doubt, my love. Without a doubt,” Parker said as he swept Cadence up in his arms and they rejoiced over their happy news. The future had never looked brighter.
“I only want to say I do once in this lifetime. When I exchange those vows it will serve as a promise to my husband and to God to love him for a lifetime.”
Cadence Johnson
Chapter Ten
Parker stood at the front doors of Seaside Street Church and looked out at the gorgeous afternoon. The sky was a perfect shade of blue and there wasn’t a cloud anywhere in sight. The sun’s rays beamed down on him like a sign from up above. Not that he needed any divine intervention. Today was shaping up to be one of the most wonderful days of his life. He knew Cadence was his destiny.
God had blessed them with a perfect day to get married. He let out a chuckle. In the grand scheme of things, it really didn’t matter at all since he would get hitched to Cadence in a blinding snowstorm or a raging hurricane if need be. But having great weather would allow Cadence to pose outside for the wedding photos. Parker simply wanted his bride to be happy. Every woman should be a princess on her wedding day.
Parker felt incredibly blessed. He knew that come what may nothing would ever separate them again. They would be raising their son in a loving home and hopefully adding more children to their family. They had been through the fire and sifted through the ashes to resurrect their love story. Truly, it didn’t get any better than this!
His brothers were all gathered around him wearing their finest rented tuxedos. They were laughing and joking with him as they milled around the front steps leading to the church.
“Going to the chapel and you’re going to get married,” Jason began singing in a rich, bluesy tone.
“Going to the chapel and you’re going to get married,” Shayla sang in her lovely soprano voice.
“Going to the chapel of love,” Daniel sang in an off-key voice.
“Don’t give up your day job,” Micah said to Daniel, bursting into hysterics.
Daniel continued to hum along with the song. He was in his own little world and oblivious to Micah’s ribbing.
Guests were beginning to arrive, decked out in all their finery. It made Parker feel so grateful to be in the midst of such loving friends and family members.
Parker sucked in his breath as he saw a familiar figure walking toward the church.
Claire, Keith’s widow, walked up the stairs of the church. For the first time since Keith’s death, Claire actually looked happy. With her titian-colored hair and blue eyes, Claire was an eye-catching woman. She and Keith had been so in love and devoted to one another.
“Claire. I’m so happy you could make it to the wedding,” Parker said, his voice full of love for his dear friend. He pulled her into an embrace. Seeing Claire reminded him of how deeply he missed Keith.
As the hug ended, Claire reached out and clutched his hand. “Thank you for reaching out to me, Parker, and giving me the information about Keith’s death. It never felt right that Keith drove off the road after falling asleep at the wheel. I feel so blessed to finally have answers about his death.” She let out a deep breath. “And I intend to make sure Mason Price never sees the light of day again.”
“You deserved those answers, Claire. I’m sorry you had to wait so long to receive them.”
“I think this will help me move on with my life. I’ll always love Keith, but it’s time to start fresh.” She brushed away a tear. “I wish you and Cadence the best of everything.”
Parker watched Claire as she made her way into the church. In a perfect world, Keith would be here today serving as one of his groomsmen. It deeply saddened Parker, but he was determined to live his best life possible, not only for himself, but for Keith as well.
A loud cry went up from his father. His Donahue cousins had arrived! Blue, Remy, Ryder, Brandon and Mac had all shown up with their beautiful wives—Sarah, Gabrielle, Tess, Rose and Delilah. Brandon’s son, AJ had shown up also, along with Tess’s brother, Seth. Wyatt had a game with the Boston Bombers while Nick was helping hold down the fort at Sweet Treats. His aunt, Maggie, could no longer successfully travel due to her dementia. Uncle Alec was taking care of Aunt Maggie. He never left her side. His devotion served as a testament to marriage. With his own parent’s marriage crumbling, Parker looked to Maggie and Alec as sweet inspiration. Alec had given Maggie the same unwavering and steadfast dedication that he wanted to give to Cadence.
“Hey, cuz,” Remy said, reaching out and giving Parker a hug. Parker grinned. Remy was one of the m
ost charming and suave people Parker had ever met in his life.
“Hey, Remy,” Parker said, clapping his cousin on the back and turning toward his stunning wife to greet her.
“It’s so good to see you again, Gabi,” he said, leaning down and placing a kiss on her cheek.
“We’re so happy for you,” Gabi gushed, her brown eyes twinkling. “May you enjoy a lifetime of love.”
“I’m one lucky man,” Parker confessed. He couldn’t stop grinning. After so many years of struggling to find a glimmer of joy in his life, this happiness felt like manna from heaven.
Jude walked up beside him. “You sure are, son. Don’t ever forget it either. You’re blessed.” Parker could see the raw emotion shining forth in his father’s eyes. He knew this day would bring up a host of memories for Jude of his own very special wedding day to their mother.
“I won’t ever forget, dad. I promise,” Parker said. And he meant it. No matter what life tossed at them, Parker knew he was in it for the long haul. And Cadence was too. They’d already learned the hardest lesson of all when they’d been separated through lies, manipulation and deception.
“Hey there, Parker. I can’t believe you’re walking down the aisle.” Mac appeared in front of him. He clapped him on the shoulder and smiled at him. Of all his cousins, Parker shared a special closeness with Mac. He’d helped Mac find his biological sister, Callie, which had led to an incredibly emotion reunion. They were now as thick as thieves, even though Callie lived in Savannah, Georgia and Mac resided in Breeze Point, Cape Cod.
His siblings joined in on the fun and greeted all of their family members. It felt like a mini Donahue family reunion. Parker was tickled his cousins had made the effort to come all the way to Florida for his wedding.
Jason leaned in to Parker. “I think it’s time you headed inside. Cadence, her dad and her bridesmaids should be arriving soon.”
Parker gleefully rubbed his hands together. “Let’s do this. Where’s our little ring bearer?”
“He’s sitting in the dressing room with Mom and Cadence’s mother.” Jason let out a chuckle. “Last time I looked they were playing a game.”
“Bless her for keeping him occupied,” Parker said.
“Nervous?” Nash asked as he walked up, placing his arm around Parker.
“Not at all,” Parker said. “When Cadence walks down that aisle, she’ll be walking toward her forever husband.”
Parker—with his brothers and Shayla at his side—walked toward the front of the church. He shook hands with Pastor Ezekiel Jackson. “Thanks for performing the ceremony, Pastor Ezekiel. It means a lot to us.”
Pastor Ezekiel grinned. “It’s my pleasure. I’ve watched you Donahue kids grow up here in Pelican Bay. It’s my pleasure to see you settling down with your lady love.”
As the processional music rang out in the church, Parker felt a burst of adrenaline coursing through his veins. As Cadence’s bridesmaids walked down the aisle, looking beautiful in shell pink dresses and holding vibrant bouquets, Parker craned his neck for any sighting of the bride. He was eager to see her gliding down the aisle.
Next up was Logan. He was fidgeting with his little tuxedo jacket and fumbling with the pillow he was supposed to be holding. Parker heard oohs and aahs ring out in the church. There was nothing like a cute kid to steal the show. The moment Logan saw him he sped up his pace and walk straight to his side. Logan wrapped his arms around Parker’s legs and hid his face. The pillow had been left by the wayside. Parker felt overwhelmed by Logan’s attachment to him. He’d already started calling him Daddy on a regular basis, a title he would never get sick of if he lived to be one-hundred-years old. He scooped up his son and pressed a kiss against his temple. His mother got up from her seat in the first pew and reached for Logan, who went willingly into his Nana’s arms.
The wedding march began to play, getting Parker’s undivided attention. He shifted impatiently from one foot to another. Suddenly, he caught a glimpse of her, looking resplendent in a white gown and veil. He let out a gasp as he saw her standing at the back of the church with her arm looped through her father’s. Raw emotion grabbed him by the throat.
“Steady there,” Jason said in a low voice.
“I’m good,” he whispered past the huge lump in his throat. “I feel like I’ve been waiting for this day for all of my life.”
“It’s called destiny,” Jason whispered back.
Cadence walked gracefully down the aisle with a beautiful smile etched on her face. She locked gazes with Parker and never looked away. Not even for an instant. Even though the church was packed with guests, it felt as if it were only the two of them. One heart. One soul. One lifetime to be shared.
When they reached the altar, her father handed Cadence off to him. “I love you, my precious girl,” Garrett said, choking back tears. “You’ve always thought of others. Go grab your brass ring.”
“I love you too, daddy,” she said, leaning over and placing a tender kiss on his cheek.
When Cadence faced Parker, her face was lit up with joy. It radiated from inside her. Parker reached for her hands and squeezed them. He wasn’t sure it was humanly possible, but it felt as if his heart might burst out of his chest.
Nerves suddenly took hold of him. How could he put into words the joy he felt on this sacred day? How could he convey how grateful he felt to be loved by a woman who had sacrificed it all to keep him safe? He took a steadying breath. It was all there in her eyes. He didn’t need to feel nervous. Love had brought them back together, and it was the monumental force that would keep them united for the rest of their lives.
“Cadence. You took my breath away the very first time I saw you. Nothing has changed in that regard. You still leave me breathless.”
“I feel the same way about you, Parker. You look so handsome,” she murmured.
“I tried my best,” he said with a wink. “Can’t have the bride getting all the attention.”
“I think Logan got his fair share,” Cadence said, the corners of her mouth tilted upwards in delight. They both chuckled about their impossibly adorable son. It would be fun, Parker thought, to raise this amazing child. And perhaps give him a sibling or two.
Pastor Ezekiel grinned at them, seeming to enjoy their intimate banter. He nodded in their direction, letting them know he was about to proceed with the wedding ceremony.
Parker listened raptly as Pastor Ezekiel spoke about he and Cadence’s love story. He felt his eyes moisten. Cadence wiped away tears at the testimony he was offering. It was incredibly moving and heartwarming. When they recited their vows, there wasn’t a dry eye in the church.
“I promise to love you for the rest of my days, Parker Donahue,” Cadence said, her voice filled with conviction. “And if the road ever gets bumpy, I’ll make a point to remind us both of the road we’ve already traveled. If we hold fast to our faith and the vows we’re exchanging today, we can get through anything. As long as we’re together.”
“Cadence, my life is so much richer with you and Logan in it. I love my huge Donahue clan, but it wasn’t enough to make me whole. You were the missing ingredient. I promise to always believe in us and our love. I vow to keep you safe and protected from all harm. I pledge my undying love and devotion to you and our son.” He winked at her. “And any other little Donahues that might come along,” he added with a chuckle.
Cadence blushed as the church erupted into warm-hearted laughter.
“As I now pronounce you husband and wife, you may kiss your beautiful bride,” Pastor Ezekiel announced with a flourish.
“Don’t mind if I do,” Parker said, dipping his head down and placing a tender, romantic kiss on Cadence’s lips. She reached up and gently placed her hands on his shoulders as the kiss continued for a few beats.
The guests erupted in a chorus of cheers and clapping. They joined hands and faced the guests. Neither one of them could stop grinning.
Parker nudged Cadence, then pointed at Logan. He had fallen aslee
p in his Nana’s arms. He looked peaceful and content. Cadence shook her head and giggled. “I guess he wasn’t too impressed by our wedding,” she teased.
“That’s okay. One day we’ll tell him all about it, in excruciating detail.”
They headed down the aisle and out into the beautiful sunny afternoon. People had gathered outside to throw rose petals at them. They posed for a few photos in front of the classic white Bentley that Parker had arranged to take them to the Silver Spoon for their reception.
The driver opened the door for them. Parker held Cadence’s hand and helped her into the car.
“I feel as if I’m dreaming, Parker. Are we really married?” Cadence asked once they were inside and the door had closed behind them.
“You’re Mrs. Parker Donahue. And I’m the luckiest man in the world.”
“Mrs. Parker Donahue,” she said in a gushing tone. “Be still my heart. I’m Mrs. Donahue now.”
“We need to stay at least two hours at the reception. Then we can head off to our honeymoon.”
“Honeymoon?” Cadence wrinkled her nose. “We aren’t going on a honeymoon. Remember?”
Parker grinned at her and wiggled his eyebrows. “How wrong you are, Mrs. Donahue. I have something up my sleeve for the two of us.”
“Oh Parker. You’re so sweet. But what about Logan?”
“Logan is going to spend six days with his grandparents. It’s all planned and executed. You’re stuck with me for six days in Paris.”
Cadence let out a squeal. “Paris? Oh my goodness. I’ve always dreamed of going to the city of light.”
Parker pressed a kiss on her lips. “Don’t forget about romance. Paris is also known as the city of romance.”
She nuzzled her nose against his. “God sure has been good to us. He gave us a second chance to get things right.”
Breathless (Seven Brides Seven Brothers Pelican Bay Book 1) Page 12