The Hopeful Bride

Gabriella

The question hung in the air between them. In the distance she could hear movement in the next room. Could only imagine who might have been at the door pressing an ear against it. Listening in on this exchange and waiting just like Troy for her response.

"So, you plan on living here forever?" She asked wanting to get a feel for Troy, his life goals, plans, or something.

"Yes.I love it here. Went to college for business and then came right back." His eyes softened a bit. "Of course, I was working with mom and dad. Learned more here than in any classroom." He quieted. Memories seem to fog his vision as he glanced around the lobby. "Now that it's mine I want a life here."

"Like, a wife and kids kinda thing?" Her pulse quickened at the thought. At the gravity that came with the question.

"You say that like it's a bad thing? Having a place to call home isn't the worst thing in the world."

At that she nodded. "That's true." It was. And at the moment it wasn't as if she had other options. Hell, this was the only option, really. There was nothing waiting for her back home.

Unless she wanted to couch surf at Ryan's place. Which, she preferred not to. Nothing against Sharpay's brother but she knew him about as well as she knew Troy.

And at least with Troy she knew where she stood. She knew what was expected. She knew what he wanted.

"When are we..." she paused, not quite sure how to ask. "When is the priest coming?"

"He'll be here tomorrow morning."

Gabriella nodded. "Do I have a room?"

"Our room."

Our room. No beating around that bush apparently. She took a deep breath, and let out a low sigh. "Would it be alright if I settled in first?"

"Follow me." He motioned for the stairs and began the climb. She didn't say anything, just followed behind him. Her heart was beating rapidly. Did he expect them to share a bed tonight? Was she ready to share a bed with him?

"Are you hungry?" Troy asked as they reached the second-floor landing.

"Um. Sort of. I mean yeah."

"Dinner will be served soon. I told Taylor not to make a big deal but," he shrugged his shoulders. "She probably will anyway, the entire staff gets together every night to eat, so you'll be able to meet everyone all at once."

"Oh," Gabriella nodded. "I should probably shower then." Probably be best if she freshened up a little before meeting anyone officially.

They arrived at the door to their bedroom. Their bedroom. He pushed the door open and motioned for her to enter first. Once inside she heard the door shut and lock behind her and she tried not to flinch at the sound.

The room was gorgeous. It had an old-fashioned lodge vibe, but it wasn't all rustic. There were a lot of wool blankets and a lot of native art on the walls. The floor was covered with a thick carpet. It was beautiful yet had a warm cabin feel. There was even a fireplace in the corner of the room, with two large armchairs positioned in front of it.

Almost everything was perfect except for the numerous stuffed animals on every shelf, every dresser, and on every bedside table. Which was weird. Why did people collect toys? Unless...

"Um, Troy, are those... real?" She was already certain they were.

"Beautiful aren't they?" Troy said proudly. "There's a grizzly bear in the dining room. It's the largest animal we have here."