While He Waited in Aspen, I Married His Rival Chapter 12

While He Waited in Aspen, I Married His Rival Chapter 12

I took a deep breath and pushed open the door of my grandfather’s room.

The noon sun was perfect. I stepped into the courtyard of Blackstone Valley Ranch in my wedding dress, surrounded by wildflowers. My grandfather’s steady, smiling portrait hung on the wall of the main house, as if he were watching over me.

Our friends and family sat on either side, clapping and cheering.

During the vows, Ethan suddenly stopped the town judge who was officiating. He took several deep breaths, trying to steady his voice.

Then he went down on one knee and held up a ring.

It wasn’t a diamond, but a sapphire as deep as the Montana sky. On the band, two brands were intertwined—the marks of our two ranches.

“Ava, I know this is all rushed, and I know this is a business alliance first,” he said, his voice trembling slightly. “But I don’t want to skip this part. I don’t want you to marry me like that.”

“I promise you that for the rest of my life, my loyalty will belong only to you, just as it has for the past ten years.”

“So please,” he begged, “marry me?”

Tears shone in his eyes. In their deep blue depths, I saw my own reflection, clear and singular.