Page 32 of Wyoming Bodyguard (Sunrise Security #1)
T hree months later, the evening sun hovered just above the mountains.
Pride swelled Lily’s chest as she took in the rewards of all her hard work.
Swirls of pink and orange across the dazzling sky mingled with the autumn flowers weaved into the arched branches that stood at the end of the white runner.
Rows of empty chairs sat on either side of the makeshift aisle, facing the place where the happy couple had become husband and wife moments before.
Lily stood under the archway and listened to the hum of music that floated her way from the giant white tent. Bistro lights blinked to life, and the wedding guests mingled along the perimeter of the tent watching the bride and groom sway to their first dance.
“Looks like you’re a hit.” Madden strolled down the aisle with his hands in the pockets of his black dress pants. He’d loosened his blue striped tie and rolled up the sleeves of his white button-up shirt past his elbows. His black cowboy hat pulled the whole look together.
The result was lethal.
“Not too hard to put on a killer wedding when this is your backdrop.” She waved her hand overhead, indicating the cascade of wildflowers that danced toward the gurgling stream beyond. Cloud Peak stood tall and proud in the distance.
“Don’t sell yourself short. You did a magnificent job.”
His praise heated her cheeks. “I couldn’t have done it without everyone’s help. You were right. People wanted to lend a hand. From Eve catering to Charlie helping to clear the destroyed barn to Reid and Dax being my handymen. Even your dad helped me set up the chairs. It took a wonderful village.”
The lazy smile she loved so much lifted one corner of his mouth. “A wonderful village with our fearless leader.” He settled his hands on her hips and rested his forehead on hers. “Have I told you how beautiful you look today? I really like this dress.”
She smoothed a hand over the dusty pink silk. “I’m glad you like it. I was afraid the neckline was too low.”
“No such thing.” He scrunched his nose as if even the thought of her covering her cleavage repulsed him. “This whole day has been almost perfect.”
She stared up at him through the long wisps of hair blowing across her face. “Almost?”
“I can think of one thing that would push the day over the edge to perfection.” He slid his hand into his pocket and pulled out a black ring box before dropping onto one knee.
“What are you doing?” She covered her open mouth with both hands. Excitement dipped low in her stomach.
“Lily Kay Tremont, you’ve brought more joy into my world than I thought possible.
You’ve helped me build a community. Helped me rebuild my family.
Helped me build a life I love and am proud of.
You make me a better man, and I want to spend the rest of my life proving to you I’m the best man for you. I love you, Lily. Will you be my wife?”
“Yes!” she squealed. “One hundred percent yes.”
He slid a square cut diamond on a rose gold band onto her finger.
She gasped and held it up for a better view. “It’s perfect, Madden,” she said, throwing herself into his arms. “Just like you. I can’t wait to continue this wonderful life with you.”
Lifting her in the air, he kissed her long and slow.
Whoops and cheers broke them apart, and he set her on her feet.
Laughing, she noticed their friends and family standing outside the tent.
Madden hoisted her hand high in the air. “She said yes!” He pulled her back into his arms, and they slowly swayed to the music in the distance. “Looks like we have a wedding to plan. Know anyone who can help?”
“I might know someone. Thank you for loving me, Madden.”
“Anytime.”
She rested her head on his shoulder and sighed. Life would always have its ups and downs, its twists and turns, but as long as she had Madden by her side, they could conquer anything.
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Keep reading for an excerpt from Colton in the Wild by Justine Davis.