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“Is Star okay watching them?”

“She doesn’t mind, and Amy’s with them.”

“Amy’s here!” Elaine perks up at the mention of Patrick’s little sister. “I’ll be right back. I haven’t seen her yet.”

She runs out, and my mother gives me a serious look. “I have something for you.”

“What is it?”

She holds out a cream-colored envelope with my name written on it in brown ink. It’s fine linen stationary with a large A embossed on the outside, and I recognize Derek’s handwriting. Taking it carefully, my lips press together. I look up at her.

“Take it behind the screen and read it,” she says with a little smile.

Stepping around the wooden dressing screen, I do as she says.

At first, I only slide my hands over the smooth paper. His script is precise and blocky, controlled just like my man... except when he isn’t. A tingle of love passes through my stomach, and I turn the envelope over. Lifting the seal, I pull the heavy paper out and open it. He’s written me a letter.

Dear Melissa,

(Or should I say “Miss Jones”?)

I’m a bit older than you, so this might seem old-fashioned. I wanted to write you a letter to read on our wedding day. In the future, if you ever doubt me, you can read this and know my heart.

Before I met you, I was in a dark place. I thought this part of my life had ended, and I never expected to have a family or even to find love again. Then you appeared.

You changed my life in ways I can’t explain. The weeks we were apart, the nights I thought our separation might last a lifetime... It was the worst time of my life.

I can’t imagine me without you.

I’m sure I’ll mess up again, but please know if I do, I’ll be the first one to fix it, to find a way back to us.

I lost myself in the darkness of trying to protect you, but you’re my light. In the worst time of my life, your true colors shined through, and you demonstrated how deep your love is. You saved me.

Thank you for being my life. Thank you for giving me a son. I dedicate myself to loving you, to your happiness, and to never letting you feel in the dark.

My love.

My life.

My family.

I’ll be the one down front waiting to make you mine.

Love,

Derek

(Or should I say “Mr. Alexander”?)

I sniff a laugh, and it’s way too late for tissues. My makeup is ruined. “Oh, Derek,” I whisper. “You are full of surprises.”

“What’s going on?” Elaine is back, and when she rounds the screen, she squeals. “Oh no! We have to redo your eyes!”

“Just forget it,” I say, waving my hand. “I’ll put on some lipstick and go with it.”

“Your veil doesn’t cover your face!”

“It’s okay. He’ll know why I’m crying.” My eyes drift to the window, and I share a secret smile. “It’ll make him happy.”