Page 46 of Unbearable Player
When they finally broke apart, both breathless and grinning, Brianne couldn’t help but laugh. “You know, I think our mothers are going to be insufferably smug about this.”
Reid groaned good-naturedly. “Oh god, you’re right. We’ll never hear the end of it.”
“Speaking of which,” Brianne said, a mischievous glint in her eye, “we should probably start planning our defense for the video game conference next month. I have a feeling we’re going to be bombarded with questions about our ‘whirlwind romance.’”
Reid’s eyes widened comically. “We still have some time. Are you ready for your big moment, future Mrs. Parker?”
Brianne felt a thrill run through her at the name. “As ready as I’ll ever be. Though I have to admit, I’m a little nervous. What if they hate the game?”
Reid pulled her close, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “They’re going to love it because it’s brilliant. Just like you.”
Exactly four weeks later, they were at the conference center, surrounded by the buzz of excitement that only a major game release could generate. Brianne smoothed down her dress for the hundredth time, fidgeting with her new ring.
“Relax,” Reid murmured, his hand a comforting presence on the small of her back. “You’ve got this.”
Brianne took a deep breath, straightening her shoulders. “You’re right. I’ve got this. It’s just another game, right?”
Reid chuckled. “Just another game that you poured your heart and soul into, fought off a gang of thieves to protect, and is about to revolutionize the industry. No big deal.”
Brianne swatted his arm playfully. “You’re not helping, you UnbearableBeast.”
As they made their way through the crowd, Brianne couldn’t help but notice the stares and whispers that followed them. News of their engagement had spread like wildfire, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the already highly anticipated game release.
“Ms. Ellis!” a reporter called out, thrusting a microphone in her face. “Can you tell us about the inspiration behind Shadow Realms?”
Brianne smiled, falling easily into her professional persona. “It’s actually Mrs. Parker now. And Shadow Realms is all about pushing boundaries and exploring the unknown. In many ways, it’s a reflection of my own journey these past few months.”
“And what about your whirlwind romance with Reid Parker?” another reporter chimed in. “How has that influenced your work?”
Brianne felt Reid tense beside her, but she squeezed his hand reassuringly. “Reid has been an incredible support throughout this process. His strength and determination have inspired me to push myself even further in my work.”
As they continued to field questions, Brianne marveled at how natural it felt to have Reid by her side. He was a steady presence, offering support without overshadowing her moment.
Finally, it was time for the main event. Brianne took her place on the stage, looking out over the sea of eager faces. She caught sight of Reid at the back of the room, his encouraging smile giving her the final boost of confidence she needed.
“Ladies and gentlemen,” she began, her voice strong and clear, “welcome to the world of Shadow Realms.”
As she launched into her presentation, Brianne felt all her nerves melt away. This was her element, the world she had created, and she reveled in sharing it with others. She walked the audience through the game’s innovative features, the intricate storylines, and the groundbreaking technology that brought it all to life.
“But Shadow Realms is more than just a game,” she said, nearing the end of her speech. “It’s a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and thinking outside the box. None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of my team, my family, and...” she paused, her eyes finding Reid’s in the crowd, “my husband, Reid Parker, whose security expertise quite literally saved this project.”
The crowd erupted in applause, and a wave of emotion washed over her. As she stepped off the stage, Reid was there to sweep her into his arms, spinning her around as the cheers continued.
“You were amazing,” he murmured against her hair. “I’m so proud of you.”
The rest of the conference passed in a blur of congratulations, interviews, and demonstrations. Through it all, Reid remained by Brianne’s side, a constant source of support and strength.
As the event wound down, they found themselves at a celebratory dinner with their closest friends, family, and team members. Glasses clinked as toasts were made to the success of the game and to the newly married couple, a fact most of the media didn’t know until Brianne had made it public.
“To Brianne and Reid,” Jake raised his glass, “who proved that even the stuffiest CEO can find love when a smart, sassy game developer hacks her way into his heart.”
Laughter erupted around the table. These people, this moment - it was everything she’d ever wanted and more.
Later that night, as they lay tangled together in bed, Brianne traced lazy patterns on his chest. “I can’t believe how much everything has changed,” she mused. “A few months ago, I was so focused on my career, I couldn’t see anything else. And now...”
Reid caught her hand, pressing a kiss to her palm. “And now?”
Brianne smiled up at him, her eyes shining with joy and a hint of mischief. “Now, I can’t wait to share my love of gaming with our baby.”