Defended & Desired Read online

  When Trey had suggested ditching a big formal ceremony in favor of getting hitched with a quick, no frills event, she’d adored the idea. Honestly, she’d somewhat dreaded the thought of repeating all the lengthy, stressful planning of her first wedding for a groom who’d never shown. Trey’s suggestion had proven how well he knew her and how much he wanted to make her happy by removing any lingering worries or leftover doubts.

  They’d spent the past two months overseeing the now complete home renovations, enjoying their well-publicized engagement, and looking at adoption websites. He’d constantly affirmed her attributes that would make her an excellent mother, easing her concerns and getting her excited about bringing a baby into their lives. They’d shared a bottle of wine some evenings, discussing how to create an ideal work and family balance. Trey was a natural at that, and she knew once they adopted a child, he’d be an amazing hands-on dad, a truly equal partner and parent, which made her fall in love with him all over again.

  Moisture gathered along her lashes and she clutched her bouquet, filled with anticipation to join their lives together. With the assistance of Elvis, and family and friends as witnesses.

  The organ music cranked up loudly, her cue to move to the open archway. When she stepped into view, she saw everyone. Allison and Logan. Cade, Adam and Liam. And Rick and Vivi Dunn. Everyone but Trey.

  Panic seized her, and she froze. Where was Trey?

  “Hey, gorgeous.”

  She jumped, and spun around to see him standing in the annex, absolutely stunning in his tuxedo. She breathed a sigh of relief. “Hey, handsome.” Then she blinked. “What are you doing back here?”

  His dark eyes sparkled. “After what you went through the last time you tried this, do you think I’d let you walk down the aisle alone?”

  “But, isn’t that backward?”

  He snorted. “We’re getting married in a Vegas chapel by an Elvis impersonator. I think we can make up our own rules.”

  “True.” Deeply touched by his thoughtfulness and compassion, she looped her arm through his. “How did I get so lucky to find you?”

  “I’m the lucky one.” He swept her with an appreciative glance, a glow of desire settling in his eyes. “You look beautiful in that dress. Your mother would be proud.”

  A swell of emotion filled her heart. “I love you.”

  “I love you, too.” He grinned. “Let’s go get hitched, so I can call you my wife and love you for the rest of my life.”

  “Good plan,” she said, smiling all the way to her soul.

  Beaming with pride, Trey walked her down the aisle.

  Her partner, her lover, her husband.

  The man of her dreams…who made all her wishes come true.

  Coming Soon!

  Look for Cade’s story Taken & Tempted - Book 3 of the Billionaire Bodyguard Series, fall 2013.

  Visit Kristi at her website: www.kristiavalon.com

  Connect with her on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kristi.avalon

  Or contact her via email: [email protected]

  Table of Contents

  Title Page

  Dedication

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Epilogue

  ComingSoon