Chapter 8

8

WES

T he next morning, we’d planned to meet at Sutton’s house before we walked over to brunch at the big house. My nerves were shot as I pulled up to Sutton’s house.

When I knocked on her door, her cheeks were flushed. “I was wondering if I dreamed last night.”

“Which part?” I asked, taking in the red dress that pushed her breasts up.

I’d dressed in slacks and a button-down, but now I was wondering if I should have worn a suit jacket.

“The part where you volunteered to be my fake fiancé.”

I grinned. “Oh, that was very real.”

She grabbed her jacket from the hook inside the door, and I helped her put it on. “I still can’t believe you’re willing to do this. You know my family is going to eat you alive.”

“Because I don’t fit the Rosesmith mold?” I knew I wasn’t what her family wanted for her. They were impressed with bank accounts and Ivy League educations. I had none of that, but I wasn’t embarrassed by it. I didn’t need to impress these people or prove that I was worthy of Sutton. I just needed to show them that I cared for her, which I did.

“Something like that.”

I took her hand, interlacing my fingers with hers as we walked along the stone path through the gardens and past the pool. “It’s going to be fine. I can handle your family.”

Sutton laughed and shook her head. “I’ve protected you from them all these years.”

“I think it’s more like I stayed away. I knew they didn’t like me hanging around you, and if they didn’t see me, it was an out-of-sight, out-of-mind kind of thing.” I didn’t want them to forbid her from seeing me.

“My mom won’t like this.” Sutton lifted our joined hands.

“Your grandmother didn’t give you any stipulations for who you married, did she?”

Sutton frowned. “She didn’t.”

“Then it shouldn’t matter.”

Her forehead wrinkled. “It doesn’t mean they won’t change the rules. It’s not the first time that’s happened.”

“If that’s the case, you can always go to plan B.”

“Which is?” Sutton looked over at me.

“Give this up.” I gestured at the house.

Sutton sighed. “Everything I ever wanted is right here. I’m so close I can feel it. This is the right decision for me.”

“Then I’m going to help you get it. Whatever it takes.”

Sutton smiled softly, and I couldn’t help but lean over and kiss the corner of her mouth. Now that we were holding hands and agreed to pose as engaged, it was like a wall had been lowered.

“Well. Well. Well. What do we have here?” Sutton’s mother, Evelyn, said from where she stood in the doorway .

“Can we go inside to discuss this?” Sutton asked. “It’s chilly out here.”

“Discuss what?” Evelyn said snidely as we stepped past her.

I assisted Sutton out of her jacket, wondering if we should keep it on so we could make a quick escape. I reluctantly handed it to the butler who stood off to the side.

“Our engagement.”

Evelyn gasped.

Sutton continued, “We’ll discuss this in the morning room where everyone is gathered for Christmas brunch.”

I didn’t know the proper etiquette in these situations. But I’d expected at least a congratulations, even if Evelyn wasn’t happy with Sutton’s choice of fiancé.

Evelyn led us into the morning room, which had huge windows with views of the gardens. There were trees in each corner decorated in gold. It looked like something on a magazine cover.

Sutton grew up very differently from me. Her mother didn’t help decorate the tree or bake chocolate chip cookies. There was no personal touch. If hired help could complete the task, then they did, even when it came to raising Sutton.

I tightened my hand around hers. I wished I could have protected her back then. Instead, I’d been a soft place for her to land. I wish I could have been more.

Evelyn moved to stand next to Sutton’s grandmother and said, “Sutton has an announcement to make.”

I noticed she didn’t include me, and that was intentional. Everything this family did was calculated. I cleared my throat and grinned at Sutton. “Actually, we have an announcement to make. I proposed to Sutton last night, and she said, yes.”

My declaration was met with shocked silence .

“Is that true?” Sutton’s grandma asked her as if I was holding Sutton hostage and wouldn’t let her speak.

Sutton smiled. “Yes.”

“Well, where’s the ring?” Evelyn asked snidely.

“I only admitted my feelings for her recently, and it’s been a bit of a whirlwind. But at the same time, we’ve known each other forever, so why wait?”

“Why indeed?” Mrs. Rosesmith said with a glint in her eye.

“Don’t you think this is interesting timing? Sutton has to get married, and her farmer friend proposes?” Then Evelyn asked Sutton, “Don’t you think he’s using you?”

“It’s Christmas. It’s not the time or place, Evelyn,” Sutton’s grandmother said as if she was already weary of this conversation or Evelyn herself. “Let’s eat.”

We sat across from Sutton’s parents, and Mrs. Rosesmith sat at the head of the table. Staff served plates of eggs, bacon, pancakes, and bowls of fruit. Everything looked delicious, but my stomach felt off. This entire spectacle wasn’t what I was used to. Although I shouldn’t have been surprised. I’d heard the stories over the years.

“What are your plans for a wedding?” her father, Deacon, asked.

“We haven’t discussed a date, but we’d like to get married soon.”

“Are you marrying because of the change in the will?” Evelyn asked shrewdly.

I waited a beat for Mrs. Rosesmith to put a stop to this conversation, but I had a feeling this was normal brunch conversation. Dissect anything going on in each other’s lives. Especially when they stood to lose a considerable amount of money.

When no one intervened, I said, “When Sutton was dating these guys, it made me realize that I’m in love with her. It forced my hand, so to speak. So yes, it has everything to do with the change in the will.”

“You want her money,” Evelyn said.

“Mother.”

I chuckled. “I bought property and built a beautiful house on it. It’s large enough for a family to grow into it. That’s what I want and need. I live a comfortable life. I don’t need this lifestyle.”

“But it’s what Sutton wants,” Evelyn said as if she cared about that.

“I want to preserve the estate, but I don’t need this lifestyle. I’d love to start a charity in the Rosesmith name,” Sutton said, and I’d never been prouder of her.

It was a miracle that someone so good had come from this family. I didn’t know Mrs. Rosesmith well, but the stipulation in the will told me everything I needed to know.

“The only stipulation was that she get married. There were no requirements about who she marries,” Mrs. Rosesmith said.

Evelyn sputtered. “But don’t you think it should be someone of a certain caliber?”

“I wasn’t impressed with any of the men I went out on dates with the last few weeks. They were shallow and boring. No one was interested in me or supported my dreams. I couldn’t see myself having a future with any of them.” Sutton was careful not to say even if it was temporary.

“But you can see yourself with a Calloway? Someone who grew up on a farm?” Deacon said.

“He’s so much more than that. His family is warm and loving. Yet full of life and laughter. He’s a good man, and he wants me to be safe and happy. Isn’t that what we’re all looking for?”

Evelyn merely pursed her lips but didn’t respond.

“I don’t like it,” Deacon said.

“This is my choice, and I want Wes.” Sutton carefully placed her fork down.

That felt good even if it wasn’t the truth. I wanted Sutton to want me. Not to fulfill some requirement for her inheritance, but as the man she loved and could see a future with. I’d support her dreams whether it was at the Rosesmith Estate or somewhere else.

“If you’re going to get married, we’ll need to discuss dates and wedding planners,” Evelyn said.

“I want to plan it myself.”

Evelyn’s eyes widened. “You can’t plan a Rosesmith wedding by yourself. There are standards we have to meet and certain impressions we’re required to make.”

Sutton pursed her lips. “I want a small wedding here at the estate with my closest friends and family.”

“That sounds good to me.” I didn’t think I could handle a Rosesmith affair. I didn’t want my picture in the paper or a local magazine.

“Time is of the essence,” Mrs. Rosesmith said cryptically.

“You’re okay with this?” Evelyn asked her mother-in-law.

If I had less confidence, I probably would have been offended. But I didn’t care what Evelyn thought of me. I knew there was more to life than what people thought about my wedding.

“The only stipulation is that she marry, not that she chooses a particular person or have a grand ceremony. Those decisions are Sutton’s. ”

As crazy as this entire situation was, I appreciated that Mrs. Rosesmith wasn’t completely unreasonable.

“I’ll be moving in with Wes. We don’t want to waste any more time when we could be together.”

“Why would you move in with him?” Evelyn asked as if it was the craziest idea she’d ever heard. “Don’t you want to live on the estate?”

“I love my house, but it makes sense for me to move in with Wes. He has more room and privacy.”

“Newlyweds need their privacy, dear,” Grandma said to Evelyn.

“I want a small wedding. I won’t budge on that.”

I had a feeling she’d need to repeat that sentiment a million times before Evelyn heard it.

If I had my way, I’d take her to the courthouse and do it tomorrow, but Sutton wanted something more personal, and I wouldn’t stand in the way of that. So much of her life was dictated from a young age. If she wanted a small wedding with friends and family, that’s what she’d get.

“Tell me more about yourself,” Grandma asked me.

I sipped my water. “I work as a Department of Natural Resources officer. I enjoy being outdoors. My family owns the Pine Valley Christmas Tree Farm.”

“How quaint,” Evelyn murmured.

“Do you want children?” Grandma asked.

Beside me, Sutton stilled because we hadn’t discussed our answers for this.

“I’d love kids. I come from a family of seven and enjoyed growing up with so many siblings. It was always a little crazy and loud. But I wouldn’t change it for anything.”

“Is that what you want?” Evelyn asked Sutton.

“I want a family. I don’t know about seven,” she said, lightening the mood .

“But a child with Sutton’s blue eyes and dirty blond hair would be perfect.”

Sutton’s breath hitched as her gaze flew to mine.

Now that Sutton was planning to move in with me and get married, my imagination was running wild. I wanted everything I’d only dared to dream of. Sharing my house with her, kids, and maybe even a happily-ever-after. It never seemed possible until now.

This was my chance to prove to her that we could be more than friends. That we were compatible together. I just hoped she was interested in more with me.

At the end of the meal, Grandma insisted on walking us outside. “I’m happy for you, dear. I know you think I’m cruel for forcing a marriage, but I want to see you settled.”

I held my tongue because it was insane to think she had that kind of control over people. But she did. Whatever she wanted, she orchestrated. I couldn’t complain because I was getting what I wanted too.

“Have a Merry Christmas, Mrs. Rosesmith.”

“Please give your regards to your family. What will you do for the rest of the day?” Grandma asked on the back porch that overlooked the pool and gardens.

“We’ll spend it with my family. For the first time, we’ll have my two nieces together for the holidays. I’m excited for it.”

“I am too.” Sutton grinned. She’d been part of my family’s celebration for years, but this was the first time I’d be taking her home as my fiancée, even if it was only fake and temporary. I couldn’t stop myself from latching onto the idea that this could be real. If only she’d open her mind to me.

“Well, enjoy the rest of your holiday.”

“You to, Grandma.” Sutton kissed her cheek, and I took Sutton’s hand, walking with her to her house .

“That wasn’t so bad.”

Sutton just gave me a look. “Mom hated the idea, and Dad didn’t say much.”

“Is that how he usually is?”

“He lets Mom and Grandma do their thing. He doesn’t like to get between them.”

Is that how I’d be with the Rosesmiths? Was I okay with that? Or would I encourage Sutton to cultivate a relationship with her family or distance herself?

“Are you ready for my family?” I asked as I opened the door for her.

Sutton grinned, and her shoulders lowered for the first time since I saw her that morning.

She climbed inside and said, “This will be a different kind of test.”

“They know about the ultimatum, so I planned to tell them we’re getting married to fulfill the stipulations of the will.”

“You don’t think they’ll be upset?”

I chuckled. “I already talked to my brothers. I think they’ll understand.”

“But what about your father?”

I frowned. “I’m not sure how he’ll react. But we need to convince your family, and they seemed to believe it. Even if they didn’t like it.”

“Mom wanted someone she could push around, who’d play by the rules. You’re not that. You’re dangerous because you don’t care about the money.”

“Whatever happens, we’re in this together.” I reached over and squeezed her hand.

There was a sense that the hard part was over.

“We need to get you a ring. No one’s going to believe us if you don’t have one. ”

“I don’t want you to spend money on me.”

I tightened my hand around the wheel. “We’ll figure something out.”

When we pulled into the lane for the farm, everyone was already parked at the main house. I pulled in next to the other trucks and got out. “Are you ready for this?”

Sutton squared her shoulders. “As ready as I’ll ever be.”

“You’re not facing a firing squad. Just the Calloways. It’ll be fine.”

“‘Hi, Mr. Calloway. We’re getting married, but it’s not real. We need to get married so I can inherit my family’s home.’ It sounds completely insane when I say it out loud.”

“So don’t. This was our decision, and the only ones who need to get it are us.”

On the porch, I pulled her into a hug. I released her before I could catalog how good she felt against my body. I opened the door and stepped inside.

Izzy and Faith barely looked up from where they were playing with toys in the living room. From the noise, it sounded like everyone was gathered in the kitchen like always. “This is like any other year.”

“It’s perfectly normal to go home with your fake fiancée.”

“At least we don’t have to lie to my family.”

Sutton smiled tremulously. “There’s that at least.”

“Sutton, you’re here early,” Dad crossed the room and enveloped her in a hug.

“We have news,” I said a little louder so I could catch everyone’s attention.

“What’s going on?” Teddy asked, looking from me to Sutton.

“We’re getting married.” I held up my hands. “So Sutton can secure her inheritance. ”

“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Teddy asked, ever the one who was the voice of reason.

“It’s the only way for her to get what she wants and not be married to someone unsavory.”

“And you’re not unsavory?” Jameson quipped as he popped a chip covered in salsa into his mouth.

I just shook my head at him, used to his antics.

“How long will you have to be married?” Fiona asked.

“We’re not sure. At least a few months, I would think, maybe longer.”

“What if it’s a ruse to control Sutton? You’ll have to stay married longer,” Teddy said.

The thought didn’t upset me. I liked the idea of having more time with Sutton. “We’ll do whatever it takes.”

“What if one of you meets someone?” Fiona asked.

“We already discussed it. We’ll get a divorce,” I said.

Dad hadn’t said anything yet, and I was worried about his opinion. “Are you okay with this?”

Dad cleared his throat. “It’s a bit unorthodox, but I understand why you’re doing it. Is this really what you want, Sutton?”

I loved that my dad was worried about her and not me.

“I’ve always wanted to host tours at the estate, to preserve it as a museum. It will also prevent anyone else from using it as a residence or tearing it down to build on the land. I’m going to research the process of having it named an historical building. Then maybe set up a nonprofit so it’s a working museum.”

“That’s a worthy goal,” Dad said as he moved closer to Sutton. “At some point, you’re going to have to decide if it’s worth all this, someone else controlling the trajectory of your life.”