"I'm sorry Marshall and Emmaline weren't here," Garrett said putting his arm around his bride.
"They were."
He nodded and whispered in her ear, "I believed as much."
"They were watching from above, as always."
Garrett held Caitlin close as he looked into her eyes. "I have not seen that sparkle in years, except that day you mentioned the ranch. It's nice to have you back." His eyes shone like a newly polished gem to which she melted. Standing here today surrounded by friends and family, Caitlin could not think of a better way to start her new life with Garrett. After all they struggled through, true love won. She took his hand and they went inside.
The aroma of food hit her and her stomach grumbled. But the thought of eating seemed impossible. Caitlin looked around, but did not see typical party food. "My wife threatened to brand me if I made ribs," Jake said. "She reminded me of the mess involved in eating them and she was not about to see your dress ruined." Caitlin smiled at these people who had watched her grow.
"It's okay, Jake. I'm not that hungry anyway." The only thoughts she had were of dancing with her husband and celebrating with the people who had helped make this day come true.
The band that had played at the Town Festival was warming up. Before Caitlin reached Garrett, her grandma stopped her. "Thank you for allowing me to share in this day."
"Who else was there?" Caitlin hugged the older woman and then they laughed at each other as tears fell onto cheeks. A hand touched her shoulder, and she recognized the touch. "Hey, Scott," she said turning around.
"Congratulations. You two will do great together." He kissed her cheek and then went to the food table, but not before he dashed a glance at Rachel. A brief flicker of fear lit his eyes to which Caitlin chuckled. The image of Rachel shaking a broom at him would forever stay in her memories. But who had invited him? Caitlin gave her grandma a quizzical look.
"Don't ask me, but I bet your husband had something to do with it."
"Husband," Caitlin repeated. "I like the sound of that." She saw Garrett leaned against the doorframe between the dining room and the dancing room, a glass of champagne in his hand. But not a drop had been tasted. A wistful look filled his features. She snuggled against him and kissed his shoulder. "What's on your mind?"