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A familiar longing pulls at my heart.
I touch a hand to my stomach, hoping to suppress the momentary wave of sadness.
It’s an emotional day for me. From my misty eyes, you wouldn’t suspect this is the happiest day of my life. I’m so elated, words can’t capture my immense joy. At the same time, my heart aches, and every so often, I dissolve into tears––like now. I snuck out of the festivities not only because I needed a respite, but because I needed a moment alone with my parents.
“Monterrey, California is absolutely spectacular, you guys,” I say, wiping a tear from my cheek. “I wish you could see what I see.” I suck in a sharp breath. “I wish you could see me in my pretty dress…”
It’s official. I’m Mrs. Jules Salinger Aldridge!
Three hours ago, Levi and I exchanged our vows in front of the cheering crowd.
Since Mom died, I knew I would never have all those pre-wedding mother-daughter moments most women share with their mother. After Daddy died, I knew I wouldn’t be trailing nervously by his side, hanging from his arm on my way to my husband-to-be. Mentally, I was prepared. Emotionally, I wasn’t. Luckily, Levi’s father was my pillar today––my wedding day.
Voices echo from the garden below.
It’s a full house.
So many friends are present on our big day.
I’m truly blessed.
Without Larkin, we would’ve had to cram a large group of people in our backyard. It wouldn’t have the same prestige. You wouldn’t believe the number of venues that literally laughed in my face when I told them I had a five-week lead-time before my wedding day.
From the first day we laid eyes on each other, our relationship has been a bit over the top.
It’s the same for our wedding.
We didn’t want to wait a year—or even six months—and we didn’t want a Vegas wedding. Thankfully, Larkin came to the rescue. His Monterey house was in between rentals, so it was perfect.
“Here you are,” a familiar voice jolts me out of my thoughts.
I turn to face my devastatingly gorgeous husband as he struts towards me, both hands tucked into the pockets of his pants.
Yeah, this man is my husband.
Someone needs to pinch me now.
“What are you doing––” his words cut off and his step falters. I can only assume I look like a hot mess. “Sweetness…” he approaches, a shadow of concern in his gaze.
“Hey.” My voice is feeble. I swipe my fingers under my eyes to wipe away my tears. Of course, it’s futile.
He reaches out and cups my face. I take in the scent of his expensive cologne. “You’re crying.” I nod. “You were laughing your head off not long ago. What brought this on?”
I place a hand on his chest, smoothing the fabric of his jacket. He rejected the idea of a tuxedo, favoring a bespoke black suit that accentuates his muscular frame, from his broad shoulders, to his solid chest, and down to a lean, trim waist. He looks amazing.
The brave face I’ve had firmly in place, crumbles.
“I was keeping it together. I never imagined it would hit me all at once like a tidal wave. I miss them so much, my heart aches,” I admit.
A few beats pass before he speaks.
“Your parents, my mom, Annmarie, and my little girl are up above partying with God and the angels.” His is voice is warm. “They may not be here,” he points to the floor, “but they’re here,” he taps against his heart, “And here,” he taps against mine. My gaze lowers. “They are sharing our joy.”
I glance up. “I keep telling myself that, but it’s still so hard.”
He runs his thumb over my lower lip. “I understand.”
He pulls me close to his body and wraps me in his strong arms, his warmth seeping through me.
