Page 236 of Vows We Never Made
A recommitment of family.
I want to show the world that I love Ethan and everybody who stood by my side as I found him.
Mom nods, her eyes glinting, just like the day when she found out Ethan and I were engaged again—but this time for real.
“Only if you’re sure, honey,” she whispers. “There’s nothing I’d love more.”
“Good!” I kiss her on the cheek. “Love ya, Mom.”
“I love you, too, baby girl,” she whispers, holding me delicately. “My beautiful, wonderful girl. You’re going to make him so happy.”
I let her hold me for a few more seconds before breaking away.
Margot taps her watch and nods.
“Go time, guys!” she announces.
Together, we leave the old converted barn.
The place did its job. If the weather sucked, we’d still have a roof over our heads, but today got lucky. Sunlight pours through the slats along the walls.
My dress brushes the floor as we walk to the doors, flinging them open to reveal Maine’s flaming red, vibrant yellows, and jack-o-lantern orange landscape.
Fall is queen and her jewels are brilliant.
For a second, I stop to catch my breath and rub my eyes.
Whatever happens next, I’m thrilled we picked this land. I can already feel myself trying to put this moment into words, eager to live every second.
Be present. Remember every minute.
The sun bathes my skin.
I wouldn’t have chosen a different dress today even if it was midwinter, but it’s a relief to feel the warmth sink in.
Although I think the heat in my chest would chase away any chill.
The wedding takes place by a lake, a giant mirror for the vibrant reflections in the still water.
There’s a flower-woven arch at the end of a makeshift aisle along the grass.
Dew soaks Margot’s shoes as I pause, steeling my nerves.
The harp begins to play.
With a shaky breath, I lift my eyes for the first time to the man standing at the altar, right next to the priest.
Even from this distance, he’s watching me with adoration.
All sharp focus in sky-blue eyes.
All the love and agony and heat that flips my insides upside down.
Holy hell, this man is mine.
Mine!
I’m going to marry him and call him my husband and I’ll be his lawfully wedded wife.
