Page 136 of Someone to Remember
Nodding, I give her a quick hug. “Thanks for the support, not just today, but always.”
“We’re always here for you. You’re stuck with us.”
Tears fill my eyes. She’s so sweet and lovely, with her dark hair cut into a cute bob. “Thank you.”
“How are you getting home?”
I was supposed to go with Roni and Derek. “I’ll get an Uber. Will you let Roni know?”
“Yep. Be safe.”
The others are occupied watching the cutting of the cake, so I’m able to scoot out without making a fuss, which is a huge relief.
When I reach for my phone to summon an Uber, I find a text from Brad.How’s the wedding?
It was lovely, but I’m heading out. Not in the mood…
You want to come over? Kids are in bed.
Other than a few texts commiserating about “the situation,” that’s the first overture he’s made toward me since we kissed on 395 last night, right before we learned the full extent of the nightmare unfolding online. I’m not sure I want to go running back to him after he’s gone silent on me all day. But I want to understand why he pulled away when things got hard.
After a long pause spent staring at the screen, I arrange for the Uber to take me to his house.
Yes,I reply to him,we need to talk. I’ll be there in forty minutes.
He sends two thumbs-up.
I hope I don’t regret this.
Iris
Today has been rightout of a dream come true, from the rings Gage gave the kids to their delight in dressing up in their fancy clothes to his heartfelt vows and all the people who came from far and wide to share in this moment with us.
We debated endlessly about hiring a DJ or a band. I’d wanted the DJ, but he’d advocated for the band he’d heard so much about from people at the club. They’ve pulled out all the stops, with everything from Big Band to Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga and everything in between, with a horn section that’s to die for. Our guests have been dancing nonstop for hours.
“You were right about the band,” I tell him as we dance to a slow version of “The Way You Look Tonight.”
“I’m right about most things.”
“Oh jeez. I walked straight into that one.”
His low chuckle makes me smile.
“They’re awesome.”
“Yes, they are.” He pulls back to look down at me. “Are you happy, love?”
“So happy it doesn’t seem real.”
“It’s real, and it’s the first day of the rest of our lives. I’m so glad I get to spend the rest of my life with you.”
“And I’m glad I get to spend mine with you, the only guy who could put up with me and my crazy kids and my Wild Widows.”
“I love all your craziness, as you know.”
I snuggle into his embrace, steeped in the peace that’s been so hard-won for both of us.
“Are you ready to get to the wedding night?”
