“Constance never said a peep about it,” she huffed.
“She was sworn to secrecy,” Aurora told her. “We wanted to tell you in person. If you hadn’t suggested that Gage take me to his family’s retreat, I never would have found the love I’d dreamed about my whole life.”
Tears filled Glady’s eyes. “I’m so happy for the two of you. Everyone deserves to find love. I’m so glad my little nudgehelped the two of you to find it.” Stepping forward, she gave them each a congratulatory hug.
“We know you’ve got a diner to run, but we’d love to have you join us for our wedding, if you can make it,” Gage told her. “The ceremony is going to be at the lodge with our family and closest friends.”
“Gage will be flying everyone to the island, and we’ve blocked off that weekend so our guests can stay over,” Aurora added.
“Just give me the date,” Glady told them. “I’ll be there.”
After exchanging information and saying their goodbyes, Gage and Aurora headed outside. They had one more invite to extend before flying to the island.
They made their way through town, hand in hand.
“There he is,” Aurora said excitedly, pointing to one of the benches across the street.
Crossing over, they headed along the sidewalk in that direction.
“Hello, Mr. Wilson,” Aurora said when they arrived at the occupied bench.
The man, whose back had been to them as he leaned over to scratch his faithful companion behind her ear, paused to glance back over his shoulder. His eyes lit with recognition.
“Well, hello.”
Bailey began wagging her tail excitedly.
“We were hoping to find you in town today,” Gage told him.
“Unless the weather’s poor, you’ll find us out roaming about,” Mr. Wilson answered. “Bailey needs her daily walks, and we like to people watch afterward.” He looked at Aurora. “Glady said you’d gone back to Seattle.”
“I did,” Aurora replied. “But I’m going to be calling Conley Island my home very soon. Gage asked me to marry him.” She held up her hand, giving her fingers a flutter.
“Well, I’ll be.” His gaze shifted to Gage. “Smart boy. Glady and I thought you let this pretty little thing slip through your fingers.”
“I nearly did,” Gage admitted, and then looked to Aurora. “Lucky for me, she’s a patient woman.”
“Congratulations,” Mr. Wilson said with a widening smile.
Bailey barked as if in agreement.
“We’d like to invite you to our wedding,” Aurora told him. “Bailey too. Gage will fly everyone to the island, and we’ll have cabins available for all our guests.”
“I’m honored.” Mr. Wilson’s eyes misted over.
“No,” Gage said, “we’d be honored to have you join us.”
Mr. Wilson looked at his dog. “What do you think, Bailey girl?”
Bailey barked several times and then nudged her nose under Aurora’s hand.
“I’d say that’s a yes,” Aurora said with a giggle, her engagement ring sparkling under the afternoon sun as she petted the affectionate pup.
“Glady will be there too,” Gage told him.
“We’ll be sure to sit you next to her,” Aurora said with a smile.
“I ... uh ... that would be nice,” Mr. Wilson replied, his gaze drifting off in the direction of the diner.
