Epilogue
Maisy and Jackson had decorated Caleb’s backyard. Jackson had ordered a trellis, and Maisy weaved it with white carnations. Caleb’s own garden had been weeded and mulched. He stood near the house with the woman he’d marry today and leaned over. “You look lovely.”
“Thanks.” Gemma’s green eyes sparkled like emeralds. Her hair brushed her shoulders and she wore a strapless peach dress. “And you’re a handsome devil.”
He kissed her raisin-colored lips. “Ready?”
“I am.” They headed to the aisle between two rows of chairs for the few guests. Its path was strewn with red rose petals.
Their friends stood when Gemma and Caleb appeared. When they reached the front, Jackson and Harlan came from the side and stood next to Caleb. Harlan was smiling broadly but he’d broken down when Caleb asked him to be one of his best people. They’d bought him an outfit like Jackson’s along with other clothes.
Maisy had crossed to Gemma’s side, cute as hell in a blue sundress that showed her baby bump was getting bigger. She was a best person, too.
Jackson stepped from the group to stand in front of the bride and groom. He’d gotten his marriage bona fides from an online site and he’d laughed at himself that a former gang kid had become a minister, if only for this one wedding.
“Hello, friends,” Jackson said addressing the guests. Diego and Annie, of course. Diego held up Freddie, who wore a little summer suit and bow tie. Will and Katie Kirkland who had eloped last month. Joe and Lara Romano were holding hands. And behind them were the other five graduates from Pathways. Gemma had invited them personally.
Jackson cleared his throat. “Welcome, everybody. We’re here to celebrate the union of Caleb and Gemma.” He smiled hugely at them. “They’ll recite their vows now.”
Joy emanated from Gemma. “Caleb, you’re the only man for me. I knew a lot sooner than you did that we’d spend our lives together. I promise to be kind and understanding of what you do and work on any disagreements we have. I love you.”
Caleb gave Gemma an adoring look. “I love you, too. Gemma. I can’t believe I’ll have you in my life forever. I promise to support you in anything you want to do, stand by you in good and bad times and always, always love you.”
Jackson said, “You can exchange rings.”
Harlan handed them to Caleb.
Caleb slipped a platinum band on Gemma’s hand. She slipped a larger one on his finger.
Jackson smiled. “I now pronounce you married.”
Caleb took Gemma into his arms and kissed her enthusiastically.
The guests clapped.
Freddie clambered down and raced up to them. Gemma scooped him up and kissed him, then handed him to Caleb who hugged the boy tight. With his other arm, Caleb reached over and hugged Harlan.
“Come on up, everybody,” Jackson said finally. “Gather around the bride and groom for congratulations and hugs.” He moved over to his wife.
With the warmth of the sun on them and the warmth radiating from his friends, Caleb heard, Maybe now you’ll believe in me again, son.
Huh. Maybe I will .
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