“I’ve been told to ask everyone to please take their seats,” he said distractedly over his shoulder.
“He’s not normally like this,” Autumn whispered loud enough to make sure he heard. “He used to have nerves of steel. Right, Cam?” Autumn spoke a little louder this time, but Robert continued to ignore her. He kept his attention glued to the entrance as the golf cart’s front two wheels came into view.
“He did. Nothing rattled him.” Cam, who was usually quiet, said in agreement, proving they were having loads of fun at his expense.
A photographer rounded the corner first, camera in hand. Then the pastor took his spot next to Robert before instructing those still standing, “Please take a seat.”
Robert skimmed the length of his suit coat before he fisted his hands, refusing to give into the nervous energy racing through him. He straightened his jacket, shifting his weight to his left leg as he waited patiently. Through the cluster of trees, a soft gentle breeze caused the ribbons adorning the flower garlands to dance while cooling his sweat-dampened skin.
Robert buzzed with excitement, making his skin flush. He wasn’t sweating because of the heat. In fact, the day had turned out nicer than forecasted. No humidity, which was a blessing, especially in the summer. The sun even played its part, hiding every now and then behind the few puffy white clouds floating lazily across the endless blue sky.
The perfect day in his opinion—his and Landon’s perfect day to be exact.
He dropped his arms to his side and took a deep steadying breath as his grandmother then Landon came into view. The sight of the two caused his heart to melt. The anticipation he’d carried in his body loosened its grip and his muscles relaxed as he watched his soldier carefully offering his arm to support Kennedy’s walk into the ceremony.
Robert’s heart swelled with pride and overflowed with love. Not only was his future husband devastatingly handsome, he was loyal and compassionate, sweet and kind. The epitome of gallant. Robert’s cock plumped. Super sexy too. Landon kept his focus trained on making sure his Nonnie stayed sure-footed until she took her seat.
“Thank you, dear. You go be with Robert now.” Her voice carried, giving everyone a laugh as Landon’s cheeks darkened with color. The blush unleashed a swift but excited flutter of butterflies in his stomach. He’s mine. Landon is my forever.
Landon, the very definition of tall, dark, and handsome, had decided to go formal with his Air Force mess dress uniform. His soldier was certain to have turned a few heads wearing that uniform. When his future husband finally looked up, the deep concentration faded. His dark eyes quickly scanned the intimate area, no doubt taking everything in. But when Landon’s gaze locked on his, their souls embraced, and all Robert saw was the same wonderment reflected at him that he’d felt all day.
Robert’s attention remained focused on Landon, who visibly swallowed and misstepped, his feet giving a slight stumble. Robert got it. His heart still tripped in his chest when he thought of how the course of their lives had played out to bring them together. And even now as he gazed into those dark orbs, he saw happiness between them. He saw a loving partner who would remain by his side forever. They would travel, have children, and grow old together. He vowed to himself he’d be Landon’s everything, and he saw that same commitment in Landon’s eyes.
Their gazes broke only long enough for Landon to bend and scoop a tiny feather just feet from Robert. Landon’s loving gaze found his once again as he extended the treasure, offering Robert the feather. “Save that with the others.”
He took the soft feather from Landon, unable to hide the smile at such a thoughtful act, and deposited the feather inside his suit coat pocket while grasping Landon’s hand with his other.
“Thank you, love,” he whispered. He’d never doubt he’d been given a special gift with a second chance at life. From the first feather that floated across his desk, to the feather now resting in his pocket, he’d felt his fathers’ gentle nudges.
Absolutely, he had a little help from above. Probably more than he deserved.
The fact that he’d managed to keep Landon interested in him this long had to prove miracles did exist. Happier than he’d ever been in his life, Robert couldn’t hold back the joy of the moment and gave Landon the smile he knew his lover liked the most. Landon returned the smile and completely stole Robert’s breath with his sincerity. Happy tears filled his eyes. He had to fight hard to keep his composure, the overwhelming love and devotion hard to contain. Robert lifted Landon’s hand to his lips and kissed his knuckles.
Landon had lectured himself to be chill. When he’d arrived at the ceremony, if Robert hadn’t bailed on him, then he had planned to acknowledge his mother, shake his father’s hand then walk, cool, calm, and collected, toward his future husband. Pfft, as if that would have ever happened. Like every day for the past year, Robert had such a way of detouring his plans. Nothing in the whole wide world compared to the man standing in front of him. The beautiful inside and out Dr. Robert Adams captured Landon body and soul, making him unable to do anything more than go straight to Robert’s side.
“You’re stunning,” Robert whispered, tears brimming in his blue eyes.
“You keep saying that.” Landon ducked his head but kept his gaze fixed on Robert. If Robert started with the waterworks, Landon would be screwed and, undoubtedly, follow suit.
Robert caressed his
