Page 64 of Conail

It ends today, he vowed.

He waited impatiently for her to pass by him and was acutely disappointed when it was announced that the bridal party would be going into the office to sign documents. And afterwards, they would be leaving to take pictures at the town square.

Fighting his impatience and disappointment, he headed outside with the rest of the guests. Her mother caught up with him as he was heading to his vehicle.

"She does not know you're here." Maeve, looking lovely in winter green wool hurried to catch up with him. "I want it to be a surprise. You're not leaving?"

"No." He shook his head and smiled at her. The uncanny resemblance to her daughter had his expression softening. "I'll be at the reception."

"Good. Your mother is also on her way."

"She mentioned she would be." He glanced over at the chapel. "How has she been?"

"Sad and trying not to show it." She touched his arm briefly. "I am counting on you to change that."

"I will." He promised.

*****

She was miserable and just wanted to get away from the festivities and be by herself. She had smiled for the camera as the photographer assigned to take the pictures clicked what seemedlike dozens of shots. She was weary and her stomach felt queasy. She was sure her ankles were also swollen.

But she had to stay and pretend as if she was having the time of her life. The bride and groom had changed out of their wedding finery and as soon as the food had been consumed, the cutting and blessing of the cake and the throwing of the bouquet, they would be off to Hawaii on their honeymoon. A present from Maddy's dad and aunt.

She would wait until they left before disappearing. The cheerful bonfire threw a warm glow on the faces gathered around. It seemed like the entire town had turned out for the happy occasion. The weather had cooperated and for February, it was not as cold as it normally was. Someone had pressed a plate of food in her hand, and she was trying to nibble on the crispy fried chicken without much interest.

She perked up when her brother came over and rescued her from Bert Ingles, who was talking her ear off and telling her that if she needed a daddy for her unborn baby, he was available.

"I could kiss you." She told him fervently as he led her onto the makeshift dance floor.

"I had a feeling your tolerance level was growing thin." He grinned at her and tried to mask the worry. He knew her well and realized that she was trying her best to appear as if she was having the time of her life. "You're tired."

Angling her head, she threw him an amused look. "If you were anyone other than my brother, I would be blasting you to kingdom come."

"You're still beautiful." He assured her with a smile as they circled the red carpet that had been spread for dancing.

"How does it feel to be married?"

He looked over to where his new bride was dancing with their dad and smiled indulgently. "Wonderful. I love her."

"I know you do."

He was about to say something when he caught sight of the familiar face among the crowd and frowned.

"What is it?"

"You have a visitor."

"Who--" The rest of the words were strangled inside her throat as she stared at the man who had haunted her sleep and abided constantly in her thoughts. "I can't face him. I don't want to talk--"

"It's too late for that. And he looks determined."

Before she could react, he was standing right next to her.

"I'll take it from here." His deep voice left Colin in little doubt that he was prepared to have his way, no matter what.

"We'll say goodbye before we leave." Colin kissed her cheek fondly, before relinquishing his hold on her. Giving the man a warning look, he stepped back.

She held herself stiffly as his arms came around her waist and refused to look at him. His cologne assailed her nostrils and sent her senses spinning.

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