Page 55

Six months later…

“Do you, Skye Margaret Manning, take Braden Robert Black to be your husband? In sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, until death do you part?”

“I do.”

Skye turns to Tessa, who hands her the thick gold band. The glint of Tessa’s new engagement ring catches the light of the candle. Next to me, Ben gives me the diamond-studded wedding band that I’ll place on Skye’s finger.

“And do you, Braden Robert Black, take Skye Margaret Manning to be your wife? In sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, until death do you part?”

I stand under towering arches of fresh flowers, painstakingly arranged in hues of ivory, blush, and sprayed gold. A red carpet, lined with crystal-studded pillars, led all of us to the marble altar. A canopy of white silk billows over us, held in place by crystal chandeliers that reflect the golden candlelight. The chairs for the guests are draped in satin and adorned with custom-made gold cushions.

A string quartet is poised to play the recession music the second the officiant declares us husband and wife. They’re off to the side on a small platform embellished with gilded accents and surrounded by towering floral sculptures.

I look into Skye’s warm brown eyes.

I’m happy.

Fucking elated, even.

Feelings I never thought were in the cards for me.

“I do,” I say without a shred of doubt. “I do. Forever.”

We exchange rings, binding ourselves to each other.

“Now, by the power invested in me by the State of Massachusetts, I pronounce you husband and wife.”

Thunderous applause echoes throughout the church as we turn to face our guests.

“It gives me great honor to present to you, for the very first time, Mr. and Mrs. Braden Black!”

The love doesn’t end here…