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As I was about to leave for the wedding, I took a moment to double-check my appearance in the mirror and fix my tie. Not long after, Courtney called me to let me know she had arrived and would be waiting for me at baggage claim. I was thrilled to reunite with her and eagerly anticipated picking her up.
Last week, Courtney informed me over the phone that she intended to make a surprise appearance at Mitch and Amy's wedding. During our hour-long talk, I suggested we go camping together after the wedding. We agreed upon Yosemite, and Courtney and I have been in touch every day this week to settle our arrangements.
At the beach wedding venue, I couldn't stop admiring Courtney. She looked gorgeous in her pink gown that highlighted her curves and perfectly complimented her tanned skin. She had tied her blonde hair in a sophisticated updo that showed off her graceful neck and paired it with dainty silver earrings. Her radiant eyes and friendly smile reminded me of how much I had missed her, and looking at her took my breath away.
As we rounded the corner, we caught sight of the boardwalk where Amy was standing in her gorgeous wedding dress. Seeing my dear friends' happy moments unfold filled me with joy. The sun was setting, creating long shadows on the boardwalk. Courtney quietly remarked, "She looks absolutely stunning, right?" I nodded in agreement, completely captivated by her breathtaking beauty.
While inhaling her sensual scent, I whispered to Courtney, "I agree with you, and I must add that you are even more stunning."
Walking to our seats, I noticed our friends' reactions upon seeing Courtney with me. They seemed pleasantly surprised to see her as if they didn't anticipate her being here today. However, their warm welcome for Courtney felt genuine, and their heartfelt smiles conveyed that they were just as delighted to see her as I was. Although I still had some negative thoughts about the Rosedale case, I set them aside for Mitch and Amy's wedding day. Today should be about love, coming together, and positivity.
During the ceremony, I experienced a sense of relief and happiness that Alex was finally arrested. Today's ambiance was filled with joy as we commemorated our friends' union. We were all prepared to relish the feeling of liberation from the fear that had been haunting us for quite a while.
Courtney noticed my contented expression and touching my arm, she said, "Brad, you look happy. Are you enjoying yourself?"
I smiled genuinely and replied, "Yeah, I am. It's amazing to see everyone so carefree, don't you think?”
She nodded, her eyes shining. "Absolutely. Especially after everything we've been through."
As I sat beside my friend, witnessing the exchange of vows between Amy and Mitch, I felt hopeful about our future. Despite our obstacles, we remained united as a family through thick and thin.
Courtney and I enjoyed the food, laughter, and celebrated with our friends during the reception. While chatting with the guests, Courtney ran into Chase, who used to be her boss, and joked by asking him with a playful smile, "Have you started missing me yet, Mr. Stratford?"
Chase feigned surprise and said, "Oh, you left?" He laughed and added, "Of course, we miss you, Courtney. In fact, I'd be willing to offer you a raise if you come back to work with us."
Courtney grinned and teasingly replied, "Well, Mr. Stratford, that's quite the tempting offer."
He chuckled, shaking his head. "You know, calling me Mr. Stratford makes me feel old. Let's start over. You call me Chase when you come back to work?"
Courtney laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Oh, wow, that really sweetens the pot. But… I'm so excited to be starting my first semester at the community college back home."
"That sounds awesome," Chase replied. "I remember continuing your education has always been your dream."
Courtney grinned. "If it doesn't work out. My friends at Rosedale will be the first to know!"
“We may need you, at least, to work remotely if you can. The lawsuit on the Golden Key Project is set for another hearing before the judge in the next months. Since you were a part of the research for the grant application, your help would be much appreciated,” Chase explained.
“You know I will help anyway I can!”
As Courtney talked to Chase, I saw Agent Downing drinking alone at the bar. I approached him, hoping to chat and learn about the investigation.
"Agent Downing, how's it going?" I asked, extending a hand to shake his.
"Brad," he said warmly, clasping my hand firmly. "It's good to see you. Congratulations to the bride and groom."
"It's definitely an unforgettable day.'"
After some small talk, I couldn't help but bring up the case. "So, any updates on the investigation? I know today is a happy occasion, but I'm just curious."
Downing glanced around, making sure no one was in earshot and then leaned in. "To be honest, I didn't want to bring it up and spoil the wedding for Amy and Mitch, but we've found a significant lead. Alex's DNA matches the sample found in Mitch's Vail chalet. It was also left inside Chelsea's car – the person who kidnapped Meagan. So, he is definitely our guy. We just need to tie up some loose ends."
"Wow, that makes me feel better since we let our security details go."
While Agent Downing and I conversed, I noticed Courtney was enjoying socializing with the wedding guests, mainly her friends and those she used to work with. Afterward, we sat with Daniel, Sicily, and Ryder at a table, sharing humorous stories and discussing our experiences. We felt grateful for the love and encouragement that surrounded us, although I still harbored some uncertainties. Despite that, we reveled in the festivities of this momentous day.
"So, Courtney," Ryder said with a grin, "I heard you're back in town. What brings you here?"
Courtney smiled. "I couldn't miss Amy and Mitch's wedding and wanted to surprise everyone. Brad and I were also thinking of taking a little trip to Yosemite to camp for a few days before starting my college classes."
