Pregnant by the Texan(87)

                In the great room, when the band stopped between pieces, Aaron found Gil. Stella couldn’t believe what was happening, but Gil motioned to the band and hurried to talk to them.

                He turned to the dancers and people seated at small tables around the edge of the room. There was a roll from the drummer and people became quiet. “Ladies and gentlemen,” Gil said. “May I have your attention? We have a brief announcement.”

                Stella shook her head. “Aaron, you started this,” she said, and he grinned.

                Aaron stepped forward, but Stella moved quickly to take the mike from a surprised Gil. “Folks,” she said, smiling at Aaron as he took her hand. “I’d like to make my first announcement as acting mayor. I’d like to announce my engagement to Aaron Nichols,” she proclaimed, laughing and looking at Aaron.

                As everyone applauded and cheered, Aaron turned to slip his arm around her and kiss her briefly, causing more applause and whistles.

                When he released her, he took the mike. “Now we can all go back to partying! Merry Christmas, everybody!”

                There was another round of applause as the band began to play.

                “Thanks, Gil,” Aaron said, handing back the mike. “Let’s go dance,” he said to Stella. “Two dances and then we start calling family.”

                It was a fast piece and she danced with Aaron, having a wonderful time. She wanted him and was certain they would go home and make love. When the number ended, people crowded around them to congratulate her and look at her ring. She left the dance floor to let them and remained talking to friends until Aaron rescued her a whole number later.

                “Instead of dancing some more, how about going to your place?”

                “I’ll beat you to the door,” she said, teasing him, and he laughed. “I have to get my purse and start thanking people.”

                “Everybody is partying. Save the thank-you for one you can write on a Christmas card or wedding announcement or something.”

                “You’re right about everyone partying,” she said. “You win. Let’s go.”

                He took her hand and she got her purse. They stopped to get their coats and then at the door they waited while a valet brought Aaron’s car.

                Everybody who passed them congratulated her on becoming acting mayor and on her engagement.

                When they drove away from the club, she turned toward him slightly. It was quiet and cozy in his car. “Aaron, this has been the most wonderful night of my life,” she said. “Thanks to you.”

                “I’m glad. Let’s have this wedding soon.”

                “That’s what I’d like.”

                “I don’t care whether we have a large or small one.”

                “My parents will want no part of a large wedding. I got my plain way of life from my mother.”

                “If you prefer a large wedding, have it. I’ll pay for it and help you.”

                She squeezed his knee lightly. “Thank you. That’s very nice. What about you?”

                “I don’t care. Mom and Dad will do whatever we want. So will my brother.”