Chapter 10 - The Daddy He Was Meant to Be
One year later.
The grand gardens of the Kane estate in the Hamptons were decorated with thousands of white roses and floating fairy lights. The sun was setting, casting a golden light over the two hundred guests who had gathered to witness our wedding.
I stood in front of the floral archway in a breathtaking white lace gown with a long, flowing train. My hands were held firmly in Adrian’s, who looked devastatingly handsome in his custom black tux, tears glistening unashamedly in his gray-blue eyes.
Mia, now eight years old, stood beside us as the flower girl and maid of honor, wearing a matching white dress and a crown of baby’s breath in her hair.
“By the power vested in me,” the officiant announced, his voice carrying over the quiet crowd, “I now pronounce you husband and wife. Adrian, you may kiss your bride.”
Adrian didn't hesitate. He pulled me into his arms, dipping me slightly, and kissed me with a depth and passion that brought cheers and thunderous applause from the audience.
When we stood back up, smiling through our tears, Adrian turned to Mia.
He didn't just stay standing; he dropped to one knee in front of her, pulling a small silver box from his pocket. Inside was a tiny diamond necklace shaped like Gerald the elephant.
“Mia Hayes Kane,” Adrian said softly, placing the necklace gently around her neck. “I promise to honor, respect, and love your mother for the rest of my days. And I promise to be the daddy you deserve—to protect you, support you, and love you forever.”
Mia threw her arms around Adrian’s neck, hugging him with all her little might. “I love you, Daddy!”
Adrian closed his eyes, hugging her back tightly, a tear slipping down his cheek into her hair. “I love you too, my little ghost.”
He stood back up, holding Mia on his hip, and took my hand in his. Together, the three of us turned to face our friends, family, and loved ones.
As we walked down the rose-covered aisle as a family, surrounded by applause, laughter, and pure love, I looked up at the man walking beside me.
The coldest billionaire in Manhattan had become my husband, my protector, and the greatest father my daughter could ever dream of.
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Our journey had started with an impossible morning, a runaway child, and a hilarious hallway confession. But as I looked at our bright, unlimited future together, I knew that Mia had been right all along.
He was always meant to be her daddy.
