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Eloise

I always said I wouldn’t have a big wedding.

Then again, I never imagined falling in love with a former Navy SEAL who practically collected people and wolves like mismatched socks—and every single one of them showed up for us.

“Do you, Jack Raider, promise to protect, adore, and remain reasonably obedient to this woman for the rest of your life?” the officiant asked, grinning.

“I do,” Jack said, his eyes locked on mine. “I absolutely do. Even when she makes me eat vegetables.”

Laughter broke out across the mountain.

When it was my turn, I barely made it through the first line without tears.

“I didn’t know what I was missing until you entered my life. I was happy, I had family and friends, and then I saw you that night and knew my life was missing something. My life was missing you.”

We kissed, and the crowd erupted.

The reception took place just a few feet away under hanging lights and long wooden tables filled with food, friends, and too much pie. Frasier gave a toast. Nate made fun of Jack’s dance moves. Bonnie danced with Wolf. Liam and Nile tried to teach Grandma how to take a selfie. And Mable? She caught the bouquet. She also tackled a bridesmaid to do it.

“I’ve still got it!” she yelled, holding it over her head like a trophy.

“Please don’t break a hip,” I whispered as I passed her.

Jack pulled me aside as the sun dipped below the trees, his arms circling my waist.

“Are you happy?” he asked, his voice low.

“I’m married to you. Of course I’m happy.”

He kissed me, slow and sweet, like there was nowhere else in the world he’d rather be.

“I’ve flown jets at Mach 2,” he murmured against my cheek. “But this? Being yours? This is the best ride I’ve ever been on.”

And I knew, right then and there, we were exactly where we were always meant to be—tangled up in love, surrounded by chaos, and completely, wonderfully home .