Page 87 of Cody
Despite feeling drowsy, Cody forced himself to stay awake until Addison emerged from the shower, wanting nothing more than to hold her close all night long. He was thrilled that she had moved in with him; after spending countless nights apart, he never wanted them to be separated again.
He heard Lolli enter the room, then he watched her scampering up the steps next to the bed.
“You could easily reach the bed without the steps if you grew your legs a bit,” he teased, laughing when she let out a heavy sigh and then plopped down on the bed. Cody shook his head with amusement. “No, you’re not spoiled at all. You have steps to get on the bed and a car seat, so you don’t get hurt in the car.”
As he closed his eyes, Cody reflected on how much his life had changed for the better since moving to Clifton, Montana. He didn’t miss his old life in Helena or bull riding at all. He was confident that they would do just fine.
A smile spread across his face as he heard the shower turn off. If only he could stay awake until she got back. He longed to hold her all night. Before he knew it, Addison was crawling into bed, snuggling up next to him and resting her head on his chest. He wrapped his arms around her, and they both drifted off to sleep, content in their love for each other and excited for what the future held.
Epilogue
Addison held a champagne flute, the effervescent bubbles of sparkling wine tickling her lips with each sip. She was on cloud nine, floating in a dreamlike state on her wedding day. Her heart swelled with joy as she listened to the sound of her mother, along with Louise, and best friend, Kinley, chatting and laughing.
“Are you nervous?” Kinley asked, concern shining in her eyes.
Surprisingly, Addison shook her head with confidence. “No, I was sure I would be, but I’m so ready to marry him.”
“I’m so happy for you.” Kinley enveloped her in a warm hug.
“I’m proud of you, honey,” Nana said, her hands carefully adjusting Addison’s veil. “For taking another chance at love. You deserve all the happiness in the world.”
“Yes, she does,” Miranda Reynolds chimed in. “And I have no doubt that she’ll find it with Cody.”
Addison couldn’t help but smile at the thought of having a good relationship with her future mother-in-law like her own mother and Nana had. They were always so close.
A knock on the door startled them all, and Louise hurried to open it and let Addison’s father inside.
“You look absolutely stunning, baby girl,” he beamed at his daughter.
“Thank you, Daddy. I feel beautiful.”
“We have a gorgeous daughter,” Miranda added with pride.
“We sure do, Randi,” Lee agreed, gently touching his wife’s hand. “And she’s marrying a wonderful man.”
Addison felt a surge of warmth fill her chest at their words. She couldn’t have asked for more supportive parents.
“If you’re ready, we should make our way to the vestibule. The wedding is about to begin.” With a crooked arm extended, Lee beckoned for his daughter to join him. After taking a deep breath, Addison looped her arm through his and they made their way out of the room, with Kinley, Louise, Nana, and Miranda following close behind.
As they entered the vestibule, Gray who was Cody’s best man and only groomsman, led Louise to her seat before coming back for Miranda. It may have been a small wedding as per her and Cody’s wishes, but it seemed that the whole town of Clifton had come out to celebrate their special day.
The church was filled to capacity, with people even standing outside in the sweltering heat, eagerly awaiting the emergence of the newlyweds. She stood on her tiptoes, straining to catch a glimpse of the altar. Her heart fluttered as she laid eyes on Cody, patiently waiting for her at the front. He looked incredibly dashing in his western-style suit, complete with a black cowboy hat and boots. Gray was also dressed in similar attire, but she couldn’t take her eyes off Cody. As the music started playing, her nerves began to kick in. She could feel herself starting to hyperventilate.
“I thought you said you weren’t nervous?” Kinley asked teasingly with a grin.
“Well, they’re definitely kicking in now,” Addison replied, placing a hand over her stomach in an attempt to calm herself down.
****
Cody’s nerves were getting the best of him as he heard the music start and looked toward the door. He didn’t want to get sick on his wedding day, but his anxiety was making it a real possibility. He took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, trying to calm himself down.
Gray noticed Cody’s unease and whispered to him, “You okay?”
“Nervous as hell,” Cody muttered in response, earning a disapproving look from the priest and a chuckle from Gray.
As the music began, Cody turned toward the doorway and saw Kinley walking down the aisle, in a light purple gown. She looked stunning and her smile made him grin. After taking her place at the altar, everyone stood for the Bridal March and Cody could only see the backs of people’s heads. He almost stepped onto the aisle to get a better look at Addison but stopped himself.
When he finally laid eyes on her, he couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed. She looked absolutely breathtaking in her off-white gown with a tight bodice and flowing skirt. Her bouquet of purple roses and baby’s breath shook slightly in her hands, betraying her nerves. But Cody couldn’t stop grinning as he watched her walk toward him.