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FOUR MONTHS LATER

“We’re getting married tomorrow and you’re here working,” Cory said.

“Just finishing a few last minute details,” Vi replied.

“Taylor and Randi will take care of everything. Now come with me.”

“And where are you taking me, my fiancée?”

Cory chuckled. “I like the way you say that.”

“Perhaps wife will sound even better,” Vi replied.

“Come with me, wife to be,” Cory said, laughing. “I rhymed.”

Vi groaned. “Are you happy or what?”

Cory grinned. “You know the answer to that. Now, please come with me,” she said, holding out her hand.

Cory took them home to change and asked Vi to please be patient because her surprise was worth it.

“You do remember we have the rehearsal dinner tonight,” Vi said.

“Of course. That’s why we’re changing now. We’ll be on time for the rehearsal,” Cory promised.

They changed into their outfits for the dinner and Cory drove them towards downtown.

“Hmm, could we be going to the gallery?”

Cory whistled. “You are good, my love.”

A few minutes later Cory parked the car and they went inside where Gia was waiting for them.

“Look at you two. Can you believe you’re getting married so soon? I mean, when you got engaged I thought it would be a while.”

“We did, too, but as I’ve told Vi, Cat is the quiet one, but she always surprises us.”

“I want to hear the story, but not today. You’re beautiful and full of wedding excitement, I’m sure,” Gia said.

“We are, but my fiancée,” Vi said, smiling at Cory, “has some kind of surprise for me.”

“That she does. Right this way,” Gia said, leading them into a private viewing room.

“What’s this?” Vi asked as she gazed at a painting sitting on an easel. She looked over at Cory with furrowed brows.

“I know you love this painting. We’ve talked about it several times and I thought it would be a perfect addition to our home. It can be a wedding gift to ourselves.”

Vi gasped. “Really!”

Cory nodded and smiled. The look on Vi’s face was worth every penny. “When you smile like that, no one is more beautiful than you, Violet,” Cory said breathlessly.

“Babe, I can’t believe this.”

“It helps when you have a friend that runs the place,” Cory said with a pleased smile.

Gia handed each of them a glass of wine. “Take your time enjoying your painting. When you get home from the wedding it will be there to greet you.”

“Thank you, Gia. I can’t believe this.”