206 Pledged, Part 2

When Dad and I pulled up at the front of the castle, a valet opened my door and helped me out. 

"You look lovely," he replied, giving me a smile.

"Thank you," I said, lifting my skirts slightly to walk up the stairs.

At the top of the stairs, Dad offered me his arm. "He's right. You look lovely."

A smile lit my lips. "Thanks, Dad."

Then he pulled me to the side and held my hands, claiming my attention. "Jessica, no matter what was said and done, or the money spent, if you're not ready for this, we'll get right back in my truck and I'll take you home. I'll make your apologies to Dakota."

I shook my head. "No, Dad. I've been waiting for this from the first moment I met Dakota. I love him."

He nodded as a broad smile spread across his face. "That's all I wanted to hear." He offered me his arm again. "Shall we?"