AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Then we hike the rest of the trail, hand in hand, as if today is the start of our forever. Without a doubt, it definitely is. Because wherever Sam is, that is my forever.
EPILOGUE
SAMANTHA
October—one year later
When Jensen askedme to marry him last year, I knew it wouldn’t be long before I took the last name Page. We had known each other for years. Our love brewed slow and over time. Lingered in the background as we connected on a friendship level. Blossomed after the first time he took my hand and I knew he wasmore. Flourished as we spent more time with each other and linked our lives in new ways.
When Jensen proposed, it hadn’t been too soon. Deep in my bones, I have always been certain this day would come. Us picking a date one year later hadn’t been soon enough. Although eager to sayI do, we both wanted the day to be perfect. So we opted to not rush down the aisle.
I never pictured myself in lace or tulle or princess-type dresses. No one will ever describe me as either girly or tomboy. Unintentionally, I land somewhere in the middle. Dresses and hoodies, soft colors and dark, my closet is full of it all. My attire varies with my moods. I wear what catches my eye and feels good on my skin. I don’t care for labels and wear what makesmehappy.
So when the moms sat down with me and asked if I wanted a wedding organizer for the big day, I shrugged. Didn’t I just need to buy a dress, find a notary, and ask the small circle of loved ones to be present? Why on earth would I need an organizer for that?
Like a person with no clue, I’d told them yes.
In no time, the simple, small affair I pictured in my head turned into something much more. A grand soiree. Ma is catering the day, of course. But now there is a florist, deejay, bartender, and venue.
“This is a big day, sweetheart. A day it’s okay to go all out.”Mom’s words from almost a year ago repeat in my head.“Big days should be celebrated like no other. One day, you’ll look back at the photos and appreciate all the special touches.”
Although I didn’t want a grandiose event, she was right. The closer it got to our wedding day, the more I appreciated the finer details. Flowers and centerpieces and guest gifts that were neutral with a rustic feminine touch. Ma decorated the cake to match the decor. When she mentioned a naked cake with sage leaves and baby roses to match my bouquet, I furrowed my brow. Wasn’t until I saw an example that it clicked in place.
“Need help?” Mom asks as I unzip the bag holding my dress.
“Please.”
Once we have the dress out, I step into the chiffon skirt and hold the lace halter over my bust. Mom darts to my back side and fastens the buttons at my lower back before the one at the back of my neck. Never in my life have I felt like a princess. Until this moment.
I face the full-length mirror and study my own reflection. Not that I have never worn a dress, but this… no dress will compare.My wedding dress.
“Beautiful,” Mom whispers. “Jensen will lose his mind when he sees you.”
“In a good way, I hope.”
A soft smile lights her face. “In the best way.”
Mom helps me add the final touch with a pair of pearl strand earrings. Simple and classic, yet they bring the whole ensemble together. As she fetches my bouquet, music starts outside. A cue that I have a minute or two left.
“You’ve always held a special place in my heart, Samantha.” Mom hands me the bouquet and offers her arm. “I am so grateful Jensen has you in his life. The love you two share is like nothing I’ve known.”
I tip my face to the sky and blink.
“And I can’t wait to be your actual mom. Well, mother-in-law. Not that titles matter with us.”
“Glad I don’t wear much makeup,” I say with a laugh.
“Sorry to make you cry, sweetheart.” She plucks a tissue from the box nearby and blots under my eyes. “Better grab more. We’ll need them.”
A knock sounds on the door and we both startle. Mom cracks the door open and chats with whoever is on the other side. Before I catch anything, the door closes and Mom faces me with a glowing smile.
“It’s time.”
She offers her arm once more and I hook mine with hers. I take a deep breath as she opens the door and we walk toward my future. Toward Jensen.
JENSEN
The music changes and signals Sam’s entrance at any moment. I tighten and relax my fingers. Park my hands in front of my waist, then move them back to my sides.
