Page 24

24

Laney

The beach was adorned with white chairs and beautiful pink peonies. Georgia was helping me with my dress while Haley played with Ellie. My family waited patiently for me to finish dressing so the wedding could begin. I wiped my eyes again, unable to stop the happy tears that kept falling.

“It’s a good thing you don’t need makeup to look beautiful,” Georgia said with a smile. “You wouldn’t be able to keep it on with all these tears. Now let me see… You’re gorgeous.”

My dad opened the door and smiled warmly. “Are you ready, sweetheart? You look beautiful. Are you ready to marry that man of yours?”

“Yes, I’m ready,” I said, my voice thick with emotion. “I’m so happy to have all of you in our lives. Let’s go.”

Georgia hurried out to take her place up where Gideon stood, waiting for Laney. The weather was perfect, and the beach looked stunning. Tears continued to stream down my face, but I couldn’t help it.

Haley and Ellie walked in front of us. Haley carefully carried our rings while Ellie scattered rose petals along the path. We both chuckled when Ellie paused to pour out the entire basket of petals. I glanced at Gideon and saw he was just as emotional as I was. God, I loved this man.

He pulled me into his arms when we reached him and kissed me deeply.

Haley looked at the guests and explained, “They always do this because they love each other so much.” Everyone laughed.

Gideon lifted his head, his eyes shining. “I love you,” he whispered.

“I love you, too,” I replied.

“Where are you going for your honeymoon?” Georgia asked. After we were a married couple and tasting the food sitting on the tables.

“We aren’t having a honeymoon. Haley just started school,” I said.

“Oh, yes, we are,” Gideon announced, pulling me closer. “Raven will watch her for a few days while we go to Starbury. We’ll relax and stay in bed all day.”

“That sounds wonderful,” I agreed, smiling. “I’m looking forward to visiting that quiet little town where you grew up.”

“We’re leaving in an hour. We’ll get there before dark.”

“I’d better pack a few things, then. I never even thought about a honeymoon. This is going to be so much fun!”

“I’ll stay here with Haley, just in case Raven gets called away on a job,” Georgia offered.

“Georgia, you’d do that for us?” I asked, touched by her generosity.

“Of course I will. You’re my sister. I’d do anything for you.”

“I love you, sister,” I hugged her tightly.

“I love you, too,” Georgia replied, returning my hug.