Dylan Hunt.
A man I’ve loved since childhood.
Someone I thought I’d lost forever.
Who reminded me of God’s love even as we faced certain death.
“Good. You deserve happy.”
“Thank you, Talia. Thank you for always being there.”
Talia cups my cheeks and rests her forehead against mine. “You are so welcome, my darling. I love you as my own, Emmaline. I hope you always know that.”
“I do.”
Someone knocks gently on the door.
“Come in,” Talia calls out as she releases me and wipes the tears from her cheeks.
Connor’s eyes mist the moment he sees me. Dressed in a black tux, he’s beyond handsome, his silver hair styled expertly on his head. “Emma, you are a dream.”
“Thank you.”
“Dylan might pass out when he sees you. We should have some ice water handy.”
Talia playfully smacks him. “Get the girl to the aisle; she’s wanted to marry that boy since they were kids.”
Connor chuckles as he crosses over to me and loops my arm through his. “You ready?”
“More than.”
“Then let’s go get him.”
Music drifts toward us the closer we get to the door that will lead us to the sanctuary of the church. Mr. Peterson, the man who runs our post office, grins at me as he opens the door.
“Bridal Chorus” begins playing as I step out into the church.
Everyone stands.
My heart is so full when I reach the end and see Dylan standing at the altar, flanked by Tucker, Riley, Elliot, and Bradyn. On my side, Lani stands beside a very pregnant Alice, with Jules, Nova, and Kennedy lined up beside her.
My gaze shifts to Dylan.
His mouth falls slack, his eyes shimmering as he stares at me. I’m unable to tear my gaze from him, even as we reach the altar and Connor kisses my cheek before placing my hands into Dylan’s.
Pastor Ford clears his throat. “We are gathered here today to witness the wonderous union of Dylan Hunt and Emma Franklin. I think we can all agree that these two have truly fought for each other through everything this life has thrown at them.”
I keep my gaze locked on Dylan, like we’re the only two people in this room.
“Lord, we ask that You bless this union. Be with Emma and Dylan, and guide them through the storms as they face this life together. Thank You, Lord, for bringing them to this day, where they can pledge their lives to each other. In Your Holy Name. Amen.”
“Amen,” I whisper as I open my eyes again.
“Do you, Dylan Hunt, want to marry Emma?”
“I do.”
“Do you, Emma Franklin, wish to marry Dylan?”
