“Congratulations!”
“Mr. and Mrs. Blackthorn!”
“Finally!”
Ariana froze for a second as twenty or so well-dressed guests turned toward them, champagne glasses raised in celebration. The warm yellow light bathed the room, bouncing off crystal chandeliers and polished surfaces. Soft jazz played in the background, mingling with laughter and conversation.
Before she could react, Harold appeared, a broad grin on his face. He engulfed her in a fatherly hug. “My dearest Ariana! You look amazing as always. Come with me.” He turned to Vincent. “I hope you don’t mind if I steal your bride for a bit.”
Vincent gave a short nod. “Try to bring her back in one piece. Don’t be too long, pops.”
Harold chuckled, linking Ariana’s arm through his. “That’s how I know he’s in love. He’s overprotective of th
