Page 137 of A Legal Affair

“Three weeks!” the crowd chorused.

“That’s right, three weeks!” Tamia laughed, waiting for the noise to die down before she continued. “We’ll see most of y’all back in Texas for the big day. And can I just say that the bride’s wedding dress is just”—She kissed her fingertips—“chef’s kiss. Seriously! When Daniela comes floating down that aisle, I promise there won’t be a dry eye in the house. Better get your handkerchief ready, Caleb.”

“For real,” Brandon confirmed with a grin. “I’ve seen the dress, bro. You’re in trouble.”

Warm laughter swept through the crowd as Caleb hugged Daniela closer, his soft chuckle tickling her ear and trailing down her neck.

Tamia grinned. “As for this evening’s entertainment, we’ll be starting the feature film very soon, so if you haven’t already, be sure to grab a spot. There’s plenty of room for everyone, and not a bad seat in the house. Our wonderful team of servers will be passing out gourmet popcorn balls and other yummy snacks, so help yourselves and get ready for the show. Yeehaw!”

The crowd burst into cheers and applause as Brandon and Tamia left the stage, beaming as their son ran up to them and took each parent by the hand. Together they set off to claim their perfect spot, Junior eagerly leading the way.

“I’ve already picked out our spot.” Caleb took Daniela’s hand and led her across the lawn to a large picnic blanket spread out under a twinkling dogwood tree, set a good distance apart from everyone else.

“Ooh, so nice and cozy,” Daniela purred in delight. “Very private, too.”

“We’re the guests of honor. We deserve the best seat in the house.” Caleb plucked a fragrant pink blossom from the huge tree and tucked it into her hair above her ear, gazing into her eyes as he murmured, “My favorite color.”

Her stomach fluttered with a thousand butterflies, and she grinned up at him. She’d never tire of hearing him say that.

Without breaking eye contact, they settled down on the thick blanket. Caleb propped himself against the tree trunk, stretched out his long legs and tucked her into his side, letting her use his shoulder as a pillow as she leaned back against him. The low tree branches formed a shelter of twisted limbs and satiny leaves.

In the near distance, the dark blue waters of the Potomac glistened beneath the evening sky. It was springtime and the night air was balmy with a cool breeze.

“Mmm.” Caleb’s deep voice vibrated against her ear. “This is nice.”

“Better than nice. It’s perfect.”

“Agreed.”

Daniela sighed. “These past six months have been an absolute whirlwind. But I’m not complaining?—”

“You’re allowed to,” Caleb murmured, nuzzling the top of her head with his cheek. “I agree it’s been crazy as hell. Do you want to elope? It’s not too late.”

She laughed softly against his chest. “Don’t tempt me.”

“I’m already tempted. Join me.”

“Stop playing, Caleb,” she chided, giggling. “You know we can’t elope.”

“Says who?”

“Says everyone.”

She could practically see his defiantly cocked eyebrow. “Last I checked, we’re grown as fu?—”

She laughed and lifted her head to give him an exasperated look. “First of all, you and your dad have already spent a mind-boggling amount of money on the wedding. Which is just, like, I can’t even?—”

He put his finger to her lips and shook his head, silently reminding her to take off her accountant hat and let herself enjoy being the bride-to-be.

She acquiesced with a sigh. “What was I saying?”

The twinkling fairy lights reflected in his eyes. “You were trying to convince me why we shouldn’t elope.”

“Right, right. Let’s see…okay, here’s a compelling reason. My brothers are looking forward to walking me down the aisle. Do you really want to deprive them of that special honor?”

“I mean, Iamowed a little payback.”

“Caleb,” she groaned.