A Night to remember : Book 3

Chapter 17

***Kira***

3 Days later....

I stand before the mirror assessing my gown with slight disappointment. My eyes slowly lower to my stomach. With a sigh, I contemplate changing again for the 3rd time.  At some point I was beginning to feel like the Grinch and his dilemma of finding something to wear for the Who-bilation.

Although this gown looked beautiful, the form hugging material did little to compliment my now thickening waistline and small baby bump. With a deep breath, I waded through the barrage of gowns in my closet again until I found the perfect one. Finally Satisfied, I stood staring at my reflection and smoothed my gown down; thankful for the blue chiffon empire waist gown that gave some breathing space for my stomach.

"I kind of liked the red one better," the rumbling timber of Max's voice pulls my gaze away from the mirror.

I look through my lashes at his reflection and admire him as he admires me ; leaning against the door. A delicious shiver runs down my spine as I take in his gorgeous smile. 

Tonight was the night that Max and the rest of the family planned a retirement party for Gladys. It would be a formal ball in her honor for dedicating so many years to the company. There was no limit to the expense of the party as the best caterers would be serving and the most sought after live-band would be playing. So, as time closes in on me, I have yet to find the perfect gown.

"The zipper on the side wouldn't go up,"  I can't keep the tone of embarrassment out of my voice. I feel my face turn warm as I avert my gaze to look at my gown once more; fully aware now of the 17 week bump beneath my dress. He pulls away from the door slowly and comes closer to stand behind me. He stares at my reflection, saying nothing. The short silence that's between us ends as he leans closer.

"Good," he murmurs. "Now I don't have to worry about beating up anyone tonight," he grins wickedly before nibbling my ear.

"Oh! so this dress meets your approval, Mr. Chase?" I squirm away holding in a giggle as he glides his fingers down my side.

"Yes it does Mrs. Chase but, it's missing something."

I frown as I look at myself again, scrutinizing every detail; from my elaborate up do, my dangling earrings and my now noticeable cleavage. Thank you HCG hormones. 

Then, he holds up an oblong velvet black box and he opens it. I look down and every ounce of breath of air leaves my lungs.

"Max!" I look up into luminous grey eyes as he gently pulls out the most gorgeous diamond necklace I've ever seen.

"May I?" he asks as holds it open. 

I draw in a shaky breath as he places it around my neck and clasps it shut. I'm mesmerized by the twinkling of its encrusted diamonds through out the whole necklace.

"There," he whispers leaning in closer to place a warm kiss on my ear.

He encircles my waist and gently pulls me closer. He gazes at me through the mirror, resting the palm of his hand gently over my abdomen. "How do you feel?" 

I grin. "Apart from all the cravings, I feel awesome." 

He chuckles and turns me around to face him. The approving smile on his face warms me all over.