Chapter 14
REENA
I make my way inside the care facility, waving to Gloria as I walk by.
"Here for another art class?"
She nods. "Soon enough, we'll have some of these masterpieces on display in the gallery. Or even up for purchase at the resort's art festival."
Porter does a lot of lumberjack work at the resort and because of him, I've become part of their planning team. They have events throughout the year, and with them as a client, I was able to reduce my work for other groups and focus more on things that will bring more tourism to town.
Dr. Nance appears, a wide smile on her face. "It's been a good day for your uncle, Reena. Come on back."
"That's good to hear. I'm glad he's better. Yesterday was a little rough."
We walk together, and she puts a comforting hand on my shoulder. "This is part of the process. There will be good days and bad days. Savor the good ones. And on the bad, remember that you're not alone."
She waves her card over the panel, and the door lock releases.
We enter and I stumble to a stop at the scene in front of me.
Flowers fill the central room and all the staff I've come to know are gathered in a circle.
Even some of the residents are seated, smiles on their faces as music plays in the background.
I've gotten to know all these people through my visits and much like Uncle Cliff, they have their own good and bad days.
Today looks like it's going to be a good day.
Porter walks out of the hallway, my uncle next to him, and happiness settles inside me. There's recognition in his gaze. That alone is enough to make me smile, but seeing him with Porter, the friendship that has happened between them, it makes all of this even better.
Because even on my bad days, my uncle recognizes that Porter is someone he trusts. He may not know his name, or remember how they met, but he's comfortable with him. It means a lot that, no matter what, I know my Uncle has the two of us to stand with him.
"Is there a party I didn't know about?" I cast around for clues and then grab Dr. Nance’s hand. "Whose birthday is it? I don't have anything with me."
"Don't worry about it, Reena. I think Porter has it covered."
When I turn, Porter is down on his knee, a small, square in his hand, and Uncle Cliff is standing behind him, a wide grin on his face.
"Reena, love, I never expected to find someone like you, but now that I have, I never want to be without you in my life. Will you marry me?"
My heart pounds and the happiness I feel spirals into elation. There's no hesitation, no need to think it over. I give him the only answer I have.
"I absolutely will."
The crowd around us claps and cheers, and Porter stands, sliding the ring on my finger.
It fits, and it's only then that I take a look at it.
A glittering diamond, the facets of the emerald cut catching the light from the windows and throwing a ribbon of rainbows onto the floor around us, and it's perfect. Everything I could have asked for.
Porter kisses me, and everyone cheers once more.
Then my Uncle Cliff is pulling me into his arms, his hug tight.
He murmurs into my ear, "Congratulations, kid.
You've done well," and it takes me back to my childhood.
To the days when he was the one teaching me things, helping me learn what I needed, guiding me through life and celebrating every win with me.
To have him here, recognizing me, and seeing this moment happen, makes it even more special.
"I love you, old man." I squeeze him tight and he pats my back, before releasing me to be congratulated by all those gathered around us.
Dr. Nance produces a tray of key lime tarts, and they are passed around until everyone is indulging in them. Porter appears behind me, his strong frame supporting and genuine warmth washes through me. His arms circle my waist and I lean back, knowing he'll hold me up.
"Is this what you expected?"
I look up at him, and the smile curving his lips is familiar now. I see it more often than not, and that's just more proof of how we've both changed. "I had no expectations, really. But seeing this, now, it's perfect. Thank you."
He leans down, his lips landing on mine, and I can taste the citrusy flavor from the tarts on his lips. My favorite dessert and my favorite people, all gathered together for this important moment.
Celebrating the love we've found.
The love we'll have forever.
EPILOGUE