60 - The Armani
Olivia stood in front of the mirror and ran her hand over her waist. It could be flatter, but Eli was worth it. She swam a few times a week when either Max was home or Lois stopped by to watch Eli.
She dreamed of a million scenarios of when she would wear the Armani, but never her own wedding. For a girl who planned parties, she didn't want a big wedding. It would be hypocritical to say her vows in white with her baby nearby. They were getting married in front of their family and closest friends at Max's childhood home where they met. Even Abigail Browning flew to Boston for the ceremony.
Zach and Ian were standing next to Max and Lilli and Ainsley next to her. She could have chosen The Dees but her life was in Boston and Lilli and Ainsley were her family and her future. She understood why Max wanted to return home.
The Dees were attending. Mandy was single again, but Lindy and Seb were engaged. Their guests list included all the Sumners and Roches, including Sarah and Stella. Only the Mitchell's couldn't make it. Max invited Jack and Honor, there just wasn't room for any more people.
Lois was happy to host and Olivia planned it just the way she and Max wanted it complete with Lemon cream cake.
Lilli smiled from behind her. "Are you ready to become a Steele?"
Unlike Lilli, she was happy to take her son's name. She would always be a Browning, and for a moment thought of Chip. She chose not to have anyone give her away. As she told her dad, she was an independent woman joining Max as his partner. Besides, she wasn't going away, but becoming his niece-in-law too.
"I've been ready most of my life."
"You look beautiful. Like a queen."
She felt tears build. "I just want to be Max's wife."
When she walked down the stairs, Max was waiting for her with Eli in his arms. He smiled. "You are beautiful. That's the dress isn't it."
She nodded. "Somehow it started things and here we are. You're very handsome."
He wore his same suit. It was a year since the wedding when Eli was conceived. They were smart enough to use birth control and would continue until they were ready to give Eli a sibling.
As they repeated their vows in front of the minister, Olivia looked at Max. Because he took his time to choose her and love her, she knew it would last forever.
After a luncheon, the new family left. Everyone offered to care for Eli, but they just wanted to be a family. He had a regular feeding and sleep schedule, so alone time wasn't as elusive.
Eli was asleep in the carrier Max effortlessly held. "How long will he sleep?"
"Another half hour at least. Did I ever tell you I had fantasies about this dress?"
"Do they involve the cracker?"
"No! Only you."
"Do I get to take it off you?"
She giggled. "How did you know?"
"I know you."
Max kissed her, and the dress slipped down to her ankles. "You have too many clothes on." She pulled at his suit coat.
"I've been fantasizing about the table again."
Olivia giggled. "It's closer than the bed."
As Max entered her, they were face to face. "I love you, Olivia Steele. My wife. You and Eli. I never knew I wanted you, but I love you both completely."
"I always wanted you, but I love you more today than when you were a dream I tried to capture. Our life together is real, not a young girl's fantasy."
When Olivia cried out she woke Eli. Max buried his face in her neck and laughed. "You woke him."
"It was worth it." She put on a robe, before she sat down to feed him. Max sat down and kissed Eli's silky head.
He smiled. "This is happily ever after."
"Forever."
This is the end of Max and Olivia's story. Thank you for all your votes and reads.
As I write, songs often inspire me. This was the song that helped me get Max to the finish line.
Before we move on from The Publisher Series, I have a lot of bonus chapters. Some of these little moments were requests from readers, others I wanted to explore on my own. The bonus chapters will be posted on Thursdays, until they are done.
On Monday, Tuesday and Fridays, I will be going back to TP Next Gen series. The first of two stories I promised years ago. Some readers who saw a preview hated it, but after two years of working on it, I am ready to share it. I poured my heart into this story. If you don't like it, feel free to skip it, but please don't barage me with negative comments about a free story I am not forcing you to read. Otherwise, I might call it quits. Hopefully, you will enjoy the journey to Love Always. Add it to your library today.
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