Total pages in book: 44
Estimated words: 42379 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 212(@200wpm)___ 170(@250wpm)___ 141(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 42379 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 212(@200wpm)___ 170(@250wpm)___ 141(@300wpm)
“I can’t believe everything is falling into place,” Maisie said. “Colt and Harper, Rio and Amber, you and me. If only…”
“If only my parents weren’t staunch believers in social status,” Beau said, shaking his head. “Maybe they’ll surprise us.”
“Right.” Maisie drew out the word to make it at least three syllables.
“The power of positive thinking, Little girl.”
Maisie brooded over what arguments she would use with Beau’s parents when they didn’t approve of their marriage. She didn’t realize how she was twisting her hands in her lap until Beau captured one and held it firmly.
“Think good thoughts, Little girl.”
When they parked in front of the house, Maisie looked up at the huge mansion. A whole neighborhood could live here in comfort. Well, maybe not comfort. Mrs. Granville wouldn’t favor allowing riff raff to sleep on her sheets.
Beau opened the door and helped Maisie step out. He took her hand and squeezed it gently. “I love you. You’re the most important person in my life. We’ll give them a chance to be included in our lives. One chance.”
“Beau, we expected you ten minutes ago.” His father’s deep voice made them look toward the door.
“My apologies, Father. We were at Colt and Harper’s wedding.”
“Your friends are all settling down. I’m sure that puts all sorts of ideas in your head. Come in, Beau and Kasey.”
“Maisie, Dad,” Beau corrected him quickly.
Maisie squeezed his hand and shook her head. It didn’t matter what they called her. “Let it go,” she whispered when the older man disappeared inside.
Beau just shook his head in return and escorted her through the door. “Welcome to the Granville home, Maisie.”
“I bet you slid down that banister,” she teased, pointing to the long curved staircase.
“He very definitely did not,” an outraged voice pointed out.
Maisie rolled her eyes at herself. She’d already pissed off Beau’s mom and she hadn’t been there for a minute. “Good afternoon, Mrs. Granville.”
“Beau, bring your companion into the library, please.”
“This way, Maisie.” Beau gestured to the left, and they followed his mother into the room lined with books. His parents sat in armchairs facing the couch, so Beau led her to take a seat there.
“It’s good to see you two. I don’t think you’ve been formally introduced to Dr. Maisie Woodson. We have exciting news to share with you. Maisie has consented to be my wife,” Beau informed them, keeping his voice light and positive.
“We heard. Several people at the fundraiser you attended shared the news with us,” Beau’s mother said succinctly.
“They were all very excited to share our news. I had just asked Maisie to marry me that day,” Beau continued as if they were pleased about the news.
“So, this was an impetuous move?” Mr. Granville asked.
“No, sir. I’ve always planned to marry Maisie. I’ve loved her for a very long time. We actually ran into Mr. Chamberlain at Colt and Harper’s wedding. We met in his third-grade class.”
“Yes, we know. We’ve met Mr. Chamberlain. He had some outlandish ideas about structuring a classroom. Unfortunately, the principal would not remove you from that room,” Mrs. Granville informed him.
Maisie looked at the shock on Beau's face and knew he’d known nothing about his parents’ attempts to break up their friendship.
“I’m glad Mr. Chamberlain had his support. I think he earned the district’s teacher of the year award numerous times. He had a very innovative teaching style,” she said quickly to fill the void in the conversation.
“Indeed. So, you’ve already announced your engagement,” Mrs. Granville stated.
“Not formally, but there are some people who know. We have a reception in Washington, DC in mind and a small wedding here in Avondale,” Beau shared their plans.
“I see,” his mother said noncommittally.
“We would love to include you in our special day. Our plans are next month,” Beau informed them.
“Next month! It’s impossible to get a location and make all the arrangements,” Mrs. Granville exploded.
“Mom, we’re not planning a large society wedding. Just something small and meaningful with our favorite people,” Beau explained.
“Now see here, Beau,” his father interrupted. “You have responsibilities that come with your position. You’ll need to invite colleagues you rely on as well as those whose support you would like to cultivate.”
“Excellent points,” his mother added. “And all the dignitaries you work closely with.”
“We’ll do all that at the reception in DC. Our wedding will be only for us and those that support us.”
“Hmmm.” His father seemed to clench his teeth.
“We’ll send you the dates as quickly as possible. Please consult Maisie or me if there’s anyone you wish to invite to the wedding, Mom. We’re not inviting all the relatives. Remember, this will be a small wedding.”
“Does Maisie speak?” Mr. Granville, Senior demanded.
“Yes, sir. I do speak,” Maisie said in her most polite tone. “Beau was doing such a good job explaining our plans, I didn’t wish to interrupt.”