Epilogue
Our Happily Ever After
I lean back in my chair, staring at the ring on my finger, the pear-shaped diamond catching the last golden rays of light shining through the window.
“I can’t b-believe our little girl is getting married tomorrow,” Mama says, leaning over to give my hand a squeeze.
“Neither can I,” Dad adds from across the table, taking a sip of his whiskey. “We’re so happy for you, kiddo.”
A smile spreads across my face as I look between them. “Thank you. Having you both there to celebrate with me tomorrow makes it all the more meaningful.”
More than words could ever convey.
I glance over at Walker, who’s pulling a casserole dish out of the oven.
Tonight, he’s in dark-wash Wranglers and a crisp white button-down, looking ruggedly handsome.
He moved in with me shortly after he became sheriff, and it’s been wonderful sharing our lives.
Still, there are moments like now, when I can’t believe he’s mine—and that I’m really his fiancée, at least until tomorrow.
He proposed last month at the lake. I thought we were there for one of our regular picnics, but I was caught by surprise when he dropped to one knee and asked me to be his wife. It was the easiest “yes” I’ve ever said.
We agreed on a small ceremony at the ranch and had our rehearsal this afternoon with both our families. Some might say we’re moving too quickly, but neither of us saw the point in waiting. I’ve never been more certain that he is my future.
It was also an easy decision, knowing we didn’t want to risk Mama missing it.
Her health has been holding steady, but it could change at any time, and Walker and I both want her there, fully present, to share our special day.
That’s why we decided to keep things simple with dinner at our place with my parents tonight.
We wanted to add another memory to our ever-growing collection that we can always remember fondly.
Thankfully, the Halsteads were supportive about not being here, and Julie even insisted on making the meal so we just had to reheat everything.
“Dinner is served,” Walker announces as he crosses the room.
He sets down the dish of vegetable Wellington next to the wild mushroom risotto and the basket of homemade rolls.
“Everything s-smells so good,” Mama says.
“I’ll fix you a plate,” Dad chimes in.
He stands and moves to her side, leaning down to press a gentle kiss on her forehead. Mama gazes up at him, blushing like a schoolgirl, and my heart feels full seeing them so happy.
Dad’s retirement was a big adjustment, but he quickly settled into the slower pace.
It’s been heartwarming to see Mama and his relationship blossom again—watching them laugh at an inside joke or finding them in the living room with Dad cradling her in his arms as he sways to a Frank Sinatra record.
On days when Mama is feeling up for it, they take a trip into town and stop by the Prickly Pear for lunch.
They still have neighbors who bring them meals, and the love and support surrounding them has been constant, showing no signs of stopping anytime soon. It’s a reminder for Dad that relying on others can be a good thing, especially during hard times.
Walker slides into the seat next to me, scooting my chair closer to his, and he slings his arm around my shoulders.
“Tomorrow i-is going to be wonderful,” Mama exclaims, slowly clasping her hands together. “Though I’ll b-be sad when it’s over.”
“My ma said the same thing this afternoon,” Walker replies, taking a roll for each of us before handing the bowl to my dad. “I didn’t realize you both had so much fun planning the wedding.”
“We g-got married at the courthouse,” Mama replies, gesturing between her and Dad. “So it was e-exciting putting together a full ceremony with all the little touches.”
When I mentioned we wanted to have a small ceremony in the Halsteads’ backyard, I was thrilled when both our moms jumped in to help.
Julie has spent countless hours at my parents’ place over the past few weeks with Mama, planning everything.
I’ve only had to share my preferences for the overall look and feel, but truthfully, I’ll be happy with anything they decide.
When we look back on photos of our special day, it will be even more memorable knowing the two women who love Walker and me the most poured their hearts into every detail.
Walker leans in and nuzzles his nose along my ear. “Ready for tomorrow, Mrs. Halstead?” he whispers.
I brush my fingers along his cheek, meeting his gaze. “I’ve never felt more ready for anything.”
I couldn’t be more grateful for the life Walker and I have built together, and in less than twenty-four hours, I get to marry him surrounded by everyone we love most. It doesn’t get any better than this.