Page 118 of Choosing Us

I shake my head. “Nope, they are my secret powers. I can’t give away all my plans.” I kiss her forehead and hug her once more. “Happy September, Lo.”

She beams up at me. “Happy wedding month, Ryan.” Picking up her phone on the counter, she presses something on the screen and one of our favorite songs fills our home. I pull her away from the counter and take the lead to spin her out then back to me.

She’s so beautiful, radiant, pure, and good.

And mine.

She reaches up and runs her hand along the side of my face as I nuzzle into her.

I hum at the touch. I love her hands on me, especially when she’s in my arms. “Sav texted me this morning to let me know that Gigi’s game was rescheduled to four p.m. today. Do you think you’ll be back in time?”

Harlow nods. “For sure, I’ll just have to leave the office by three, but that shouldn’t be a problem, you know, so long as nothing major pops up today.” She shrugs, but the disclaimer is a constant in our world. It’s no longer her world or my world, but everything is shared, including the reality of everything her job entails. I still like to pretend she just works at a desk every day, but that’s because it’s hard to mentally imagine the danger she faces regularly. I don’t doubt her skills or her team, but I want—and need—her safe.

My fears were slightly calmed when Liam suggested I further welcome Harlow into The Brigade with her own Liam-Special piece of jewelry.

The modest diamond pendant necklace she never takes off hangs from a delicate-looking but incredibly strong chain. Somewhere in the tiny diamonds that surround the center stone is the tracker that I hope I never need to activate, but if I do, I know it’s there. I didn’t need to know all the specifics; I just needed to know we had measures in place to keep my girl safe.

Walker and Jack loved my idea so much that Vivian and Tinsley received similar necklaces soon after Harlow started wearing hers. Savannah already had a piece of jewelry enabled to track her—something I’m thankful for every time I think of how everything could have turned out for my sister had Liam not been able to find her in time. Almost a year later, and I still wish I could punch the guy who kidnapped her, but he’s busy with the devil himself.

“Just let me know. We can meet at the soccer fields if you run a little late, too.” She hums in agreement, pulling me from my thoughts and back to what matters right now—soaking in the lyrics and the beauty of this moment. Not only starting the morning together but also having the privilege of holding Harlow in my arms, in our home, now that she officially moved in last month, feels like a small piece of heaven on earth.

It’s ordinary and wonderful all at the same time, and I would happily start every day for the rest of my life like this, so long as it is with her.

CHAPTER SIXTY-TWO

Savannah

T-minus twenty-six hours until the ceremony, and two hours until rehearsal! This is not a drill.

Savannah

The boutique is steaming the bridesmaid dresses and delivering them to Murphy’s first thing in the morning. Harlow’s dress is in my guest room, and I will bring it tomorrow.

Vivian

Caterer confirmed final numbers, and the florist said her delivery truck arrived this morning.

Harlow

You all really are the best.

Cami

Should we all take a calming breath? I feel like that could be helpful.

Finn

I’ll be finished with the arch at least 15 minutes before the rehearsal. Minor hiccup but it should be fine. Probably.

Cami

…Or do the opposite [yikes emoji]

Savannah

What?? You were almost finished with that! What happened?

Me