Page 182 of Boss of Me

Loud cheers pull us out of our little world.

Turning toward the sound, my jaw drops at the sight of my mother, sister, aunt Nora, Lilith, Quinn and Valeria walking across the lawn. They’re accompanied by Gunner’s family members, his friends and their plus ones, his assistant and the senior executive team, along with Mrs. Calder, Mr. Leland and Trace.

“No freaking way!” I squeal, clapping both hands over my mouth.

Gunner chuckles warmly and whispers in my ear, “Surprise.”

I laugh as the crowd swells forward to congratulate us. The next several minutes are a blur of smiling faces, tearful hugs and exuberant handshakes.

I’m introduced to both sets of Gunner’s grandparents, who are as different as night and day. The Ransoms are a salt-of-the-earth couple in matching Hawaiian shirts, Bermuda shorts and sandals. They compliment my hair and call me a pretty little thing who looks “nice and fertile,” drawing a mortified gasp from Gunner’s mother.

Her parents, in stark contrast, have the refined bearing of old Southern blue bloods, and I’m not entirely convinced that they approve of me. But Gunner must have warned them to behave, because they smile kindly enough and welcome me to the family.

At some point, Gunner is drawn into conversation with his dad and both grandfathers. Seizing the opportunity, my mother pulls me aside with Aunt Nora, Ember, Quinn and Valeria.

I can’t remember the last time I saw her so happy. She gives me another fierce hug and whispers in my ear, “Your father would be so proud of you. And he definitely would’ve loved Gunner.” She draws away and cups my cheek, a sentimental smile softening her face. “I’m so happy for you two. You reallyareperfect for each other.”

“Thanks, Mom.” I give her a watery smile. “I’m glad you’re here to celebrate with us.”

“Wild horses couldn’t have kept me away. When Gunner called to tell us his plans, my suitcase was packed before I even hung up the phone.” Her expression turns humble. “I thanked him for allowing me to take part in your special day. After everything I’ve put you through, God knows I don’t deserve to be here.”

“Let’s not think about the past, Mom,” I say quietly. “Not today.”

“You’re right. I’m sorry. I just . . . I just wanted you to know how grateful I am.”

I nod and smile.

She smiles back. “The rest of our family will be at the wedding, of course. I didn’t want to overwhelm you this weekend. That’s also why Gunner invited a limited number of his relatives. He has a big family on both sides, and he says they can be quite a handful.” Her eyes twinkle. “He’s so protective of you, darling. And you weren’t exaggerating about his romantic streak.Whata proposal.”

“Totally swoonworthy.” Ember hugs me from behind and rests her chin on my shoulder. “I’m glad he finally came to his senses. I was giving him one more week before I flew down to Texas and kicked his ass.”

“Sure you were,” I tease.

We both laugh.

“Darling,” Mom sighs, looking around in awe. “This estate is simply breathtaking. When we arrived this morning, we were absolutely blown away.”

“Absolutely,” Aunt Nora and Ember confirm.

“Check out the size of that rock on her finger,” Quinn exclaims.

They make a big fuss over my diamond ring until Gunner joins us, and then they fawn over him until I don’t know whether to be embarrassed or amused.

The fawning is blessedly cut short when Gunner’s mother comes over to introduce me to her date. He’s attractive, deeply tanned and independently wealthy. He’s also ten years her junior. She likes younger men and there’s nothing wrong with that, as long as they treat her well and aren’t after her fortune.

“This is the special young lady who did what no one else ever has: won Gunner’s heart.” Tabitha gives me a meaningful smile and squeezes my hand.

I return her smile, gratefully accepting the peace offering.

By the time we get through the preliminary greetings and introductions, an army of caterers has almost finished setting up tables under a big white tent. Linen cloths, china, silverware, wineglasses, flowers. The works.

When I stare incredulously at Gunner, he gives me a lazy grin. “It’s our engagement party and New Year’s Eve bash rolled into one.”

I shake my head wonderingly at him. “I’ll never get enough of your surprises.”

“And I’ll never get enough ofyou,” he murmurs, kissing me softly. When cheers and whistles erupt around us, we laugh against each other’s mouths.

The party gets under way with a live band and circulating waiters serving cocktails and canapés. Gunner and I walk hand in hand through the crowd, laughing and socializing with our guests.