Free Whiskey Wedding (Tasting Nashville series Book 3) by Kimmie Easley Page A

the prize and force legs to move forward.
    I move toward the only award that matters.
    Dean.
     
    *
     
    Finally, on the plane.
    “I can’t believe we haven’t been home for almost two months.” My head throbs from the night before. I don’t drink more than a beer or two at home, but on award nights, the toasting never ends.
    “I remember when you hated the thought of heading back to the ranch.” Dean squeezes my hand before brushing his lips across my knuckles causing my tummy to flip flop.
    “Yeah, well, that was before.”
    He winks and hands me my neck pillow.
    Sleep is my new best friend. After having cancer, I thought the fact that I would never sing again would be my downfall. I figured I would be mourning the stage and grieving the lights. However, that’s not the case. Not even close. Hanging up the microphone turned out to be exactly what I needed. Hell, I almost wish I had done it sooner!
    Being back home, connecting with nature, and even better, Dean, has helped me to find my place. My place in the music world. My place in this world. I’m a songwriter. Damn, I’m not just a songwriter; I won the fucking song of the year.
    I’m a storyteller.
    I have a peace I’ve never known before. I love being home with my horse, Bella. I love hiking the hills and spending a lazy day in bed with my fiancé.
    My fiancé. Holy shit.
    But not for much longer.
    I’m going home to get married. In just two weeks, I will be Mrs. Joselyn Covington.
     
    *
     
    “Wake up, babe. We’re here.”
    I rub my eyes and glance around. The plane is already empty. We’ve landed in Nashville and now, it’s time to turn off work and play the role of a lifetime, the bride. I’m a fucking bride.
    “Rick should be out front with the truck.”
    “And Judy?” I ask.
    Dean tilts his head and smirks. “Be warned, she’s in full wedding planner mode. She’s back at the house ready to go over schedules and seating charts.”
    My insides flutter. It’s becoming more real with every passing second.
    “We’re really doing this?” I gaze up at him, lost in the way he gazes back. He flashes that signature smile.
    “Damn straight.” His warm lips devour mine. “You’re not getting away, ever, so forget it!”
    I giggle. He’s so easy to tease.
     
    *
     
    After the long ride out to the property, I was happy to get out and stretch my legs. I draw in a deep breath of fresh, mountain air.
    “We’re home, Mrs. Covington.” Dean swoops me up into his massive arms and spins me around in circles until I force him to plant me back on the ground.
    “You’re a little premature, but yes, we’re home.”
    I see it before it happens. The way his eyes dance. He takes off running toward the house, taunting me into a race. I’m close to winning when he opens the door and comes to an abrupt halt. I tiptoe to peer over his massive shoulder.
    Holy shit.
    My living room resembles a bridal shop after a blue light special.
    Wall to wall gift bags, boxes, and flowers vases. Tulle and lace are scattered across the couch and chairs. Serving dishes cover the dining table. Scared of being bombarded by more frills and decorations, I attempt to take a step backwards.
    Too late.
    “Welcome home!” Judy bursts out from the back hallway, sending my heart into a panic.
    “Oh my God! You scared the shit out of me!”
    Judy snickers, with Dean in a full-blown laughing fit coming from behind. “Sorry, hun. So, what do ya think?”
    I place my hands on my hips and survey my surroundings. “Well, it looks like you’ve got it all under control. Um, sort of, I guess.”
    Judy waved her hand through the air and chuckled. “Don’t let it fool ya, sweetie. It’s all organized and running like a well-oiled machine. You just let me take care of everything. This is your time to pamper yourself. Rick and I got this. And this stud here,” she says as she smacks Dean square in the middle of the chest. “Has got you. Right, son?”
    He quickly stands at