Chapter 49 Brianna
Brianna
You’re my little warrior, my Bear
Seven months later
It’s finally time. Months of blood, sweat, and tears, and it's finally opening day for our store. The second I stepped into the store this morning, I fell to the ground. Xander has been working tirelessly to bring the vision Asher and I had to life.
Max has been extremely helpful in his own way.
Getting him to be open with what he’s going through feels impossible.
I know he’s struggling because his use of humor has been more excessive than usual.
That, and he’s still insisting that the doctor has these weightlifting restrictions still in place.
I mean, I don’t know much about healing from multiple surgeries, but something feels off.
Still, having him delegate tasks to his team makes him happy.
And he still gets to be a part of this process, so I’m not pushing him on it.
Well, not pushing as hard as I want to, if I’m being honest. I know it killed Max not to have more of an active role in the creation of Booked ‘N’ Boozed.
But his fingerprints are throughout this store, and for now, that’s enough.
Avery is in the corner, feeding her baby girl while Cas and Asher run around the room putting up last minute touches. I walk over to Avery and coo over her gorgeous baby, Paisley.
“I still can’t believe you're a mom. She’s literally your spitting image, Aves. How’s motherhood treating you?”
“I’m exhausted and cranky, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. Being a mother is truly a gift I didn’t know I needed.” I brush my fingers over her dark curls, admiring the freckles on her cheek.
“How are you feeling about today?” Isn’t that a loaded question. Today has been a whirlwind, but Avery insisted on getting my hair, makeup, and nails done for today. She told me it was necessary for tonight and that I’d hate myself if I looked like a crazy person in my photos.
“I’m overwhelmed and anxious, but excited. We’ve been working so hard these last few months, so now that it’s finally here? It’s surreal.”
“Well, at least you look good.”
“Well, yeah. My best friend forced me to get ready with her. Of course I look good.”
I feel Asher’s arms wrap around me, swaying our bodies back and forth.
“Hey, baby. Today’s the day. Are you ready?” I turn around to peck his lips.
“Hey. Yeah, I’m more than ready. Are you?”
“I’ve been ready for years.” Years? That’s weird since we haven’t been planning this for that long. Whatever, I have other things to think about.
“Well, everyone’s here. You want to give your speech now?” Asher asks.
“More than ever.” I give him another quick kiss before removing myself from his arms.
Asher and I walk up hand in hand to the front of the shop, and I loudly clear my throat to gather everyone’s attention.
“Hi, everyone. Thank you for coming to the opening of Booked ‘N’ Boozed.” I pause, taking in the loud applause and cheering.
“We’re so happy you decided to join us in the celebration.
First, I wanted to shout out to my partner, Asher.
If it wasn’t for you pushing and encouraging me to be the best version of myself I can be, I wouldn’t be who I am now.
Thank you for always being the man I needed and helping me see the woman I was—especially when I couldn’t see it myself.
You are truly the best man I could ever share a life with.
” Asher kisses my cheek and squeezes my hand.
“To Max and Xander. The store would still be an idea in our heads if it wasn’t for your creative genius. The both of you worked tirelessly to make our dream a reality, and for that, we are eternally grateful.”
“To Avery and Cas for supporting me through thick and thin. I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without you two by my side.” I turn to mine and Asher’s parents for the final thanks.
“To our parents, thank you for being the best role models. You’ve taught us everything we know, and we both love you guys so much. With all that said, stick around, buy a book, and get a drink from Asher. Thank you again for coming, and have fun.”
Asher
The box that’s in my pocket feels like it weighs a thousand pounds.
It’s now or never.
I glance around the room, and I’m overwhelmed with how many people showed up for us.
Bri’s parents are over in the corner talking to mine, and when Colleen catches my gaze, she winks at me.
Avery and Cas are in the designated rocking chair in the corner—a feature we put it for breastfeeding mothers, so they don’t have to feel like they need to excuse themselves to the restroom.
The space is secluded enough from the public space, allowing the mother and child to have the privacy they need.
To my left, I see Kennedy with her little girl, Cora, in her lap reading a children’s book.
And who should be hovering over them but none other than Gage.
Kennedy is so focused on her girl that she has no idea how the man standing next to her is looking at her.
I’ve known him for years, and I’ve never seen that look on his face.
He must sense my gaze on him, because when his eyes meet mine, he takes a giant step back from her and gives me his normal Gage-like scowl.
Yeah…Something’s happening there.
And if not yet, soon. I squeeze the pocket with the ring inside and clear my throat loud enough to get everyone’s attention.
“If I could have everyone’s attention for a minute.” Bri gives me a questioning look.
“Bri, you are the most incredible woman I’ve ever met.
I knocked on your door over a year ago hoping to provide friendship and support.
What I didn’t expect was for you to become the most important person in my life.
You’re strong, resilient, and beautiful inside and out. You’re my little warrior, my bear.”
“Oh my God.” Bri’s eyes tear up and her hands shoot up to her face.
“I loved watching you blossom. Watching you on your journey to finding yourself has been the greatest gift one could ever receive. You’ve always been the woman who stands before me today, and watching you be reintroduced was everything.”
“Asher, oh my God.” Bri’s hands are flapping in front of her face.
I pull the ring from my pocket and get down on one knee. “Brianna Mae Montgomery, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”
“Yes. One thousand times, yes.” Bri launches herself at me, assaulting my mouth with hers. Someone clears their throat, forcing us apart. I slide the ring on her finger. A perfect fit for a perfect woman.
“I love you, bear.”
“I love you, too, future hubby.”