“Uh, what? Did you say something?”
“I was just wondering if having a reception here would be all right with you?” Anxiety lined Jean's face.
Luke glanced at Mattie. “I was thinking we could do it at the church. If that's all right?”
“The church is fine,” Mattie said.
“What about our house?” Laurel offered.
Mattie smiled. “I'd like that.”
“Sure—your place then.” Luke felt as if he were being swept away in a bore tide of emotions. He needed to get out. Maybe some fresh air would help.
After saying a blessing over Luke and Mattie, the minister said, “I pronounce you husband and wife.” He offered Luke a fatherly smile. “You may kiss your bride.”
His blue eyes ardent, Luke gently took Mattie's face in his hands and kissed her. “I love you.”
“I love you,” Mattie said, a wave of passion and love cutting off her breath. The two clasped hands and turned to face their guests.
Meryl hugged Mattie. “You are the most beautiful bride I've ever seen,” she gushed.
Mattie smiled and swallowed past the lump in her throat. She was certain there had never been a time in her life when she'd felt happier.
Luke lifted Mattie's hand and kissed it, then held it against his chest. “So, Mrs. Hasper…” He grinned. “I can't believe it. You're my wife.”
“As it should be,” Mattie said, remembering how close she'd come to losing him. “I'll never let you go.”
They walked down the aisle and into the foyer where guests greeted them. A meal at Adam and Laurel's, rather than a party, had been planned. It seemed more intimate, an intertwining of families.
Luke leaned down and kissed Mattie, then said, “I'm starved, and I hear a feast is waiting.”
“I'm always up for a good meal,” Barry said, wearing a broad smile. He linked arms with Meryl. “You ready?”
“Absolutely.” Throwing back her tangle of curls, she said, “I've always thought it a sign of good health when a man has a hearty appetite.”
“Let's go, then,” Luke said, keeping a tight hold on Mattie's hand. He led her out to the car, and after helping her in, ran around to the driver's side and slid in beside her. Immediately, as if he couldn't bear to be parted for even a moment, he pulled her close and kissed her, then settled behind the steering wheel with Mattie snuggled close.
Friends and family stood around a table laden with food at Laurel and Adam's home. “I think a blessing is in order,” Adam said. He let his gaze fall on Luke and Mattie, who stood together, arms intertwined.
“What a day this has been. Our family grows.” He looked at Affia and Atuska, then Ray and Jean. “It amazes me as I watch others join this family and become part of it. I'm one of those adopted.” He paused. “We may not be connected by blood, yet in a mysterious and miraculous way we've become part of each other.”
His gaze settled on Luke and Mattie. “Not so long ago we all feared Luke was gone, lost to us forever.” He stopped, blinked away tears, and cleared his throat. “Now, here you are. And you're setting out with your new bride to begin an incredible adventure.”
“OK, OK,” Brian said. “We got it. You're not writing a book.”
Quiet laughter broke out.
“That's all I had to say anyway.” He took Laurel's hand. “Let's pray.”
Everyone bowed their heads, and Adam began, “Father, in heaven, it's an honor to be here with this extraordinary family on this special day. Luke and Mattie have been dear to all of us for many years, and it's a true blessing to see them find each other.” He paused. “We thank you for bringing Luke back to us. You're a good and gracious God. We pray that Mattie and Luke will have a long and happy life together. We look forward to being part of their joys, and we promise to be there to share in their sorrows.
“Father, we thank you for this wonderful food and ask that you would bless the hands of those who worked so hard to prepare it. Amen.”
Amens were said all around, then Luke raised his hand. “I have something I want to say.” He looked at his bride. “Mattie, thank you for sticking with me. We've been friends long enough; I figure you know me just about as well as anyone.” He grinned. “And you married me anyway.” There was soft laughter and applause. Luke added, more seriously, “I love you. I always will.” He looked at Barry. “I also want to thank my buddy, Barry, who traveled all this way to share this day with me. You're a good friend.”
Barry's face reddened, and he nodded. “What do you say we eat?”
A roar of approval went up, and Jean said, “It's buffet style. Everyone serve yourselves.”
Brian and William were the first in line; the others moved in behind them.
Jean crossed to Luke. “Before you and Mattie set out on your own, I want you to know how much I love you. Ray and I both do. If you and Mattie ever need anything—”
“I know, Mom. Thanks.”
Jean took Mattie's hand. “You've been family to me for a long time now, but today you became my daughter. I love you, dear.” She kissed Mattie's cheek and hugged her.
“I love you, too, Mrs. Townsend.”
“Maybe you ought to start calling me Jean.” She smiled gently.
“Jean, then.”
Sitting a little too close to Barry on the sofa, Meryl took a bite of salad and looked at Mattie. “Where are you going for your honeymoon?”
