Epilogue
S nowflakes drifted past the lodge windows like endless falling stars.
Lauren stood in front of the mirror in the small room off the kitchen, her fingers smoothing the front of her ivory sweater dress.
It wasn't traditional, but it was warm, simple, and perfect.
She'd braided her hair again with two Dutch braids pulled into a low bun, a few loose strands framing her face.
Her fancy thigh-high boots laden with soft brown and cream feathers weren't for the snow, but they were perfect for her wedding.
Tonight, she would be married the man she loved. Her cheeks flushed, and she exhaled slowly. Her heart beat like a drum. Today was the day.
Sonja peeked in. "They're coming. Once Mac and Jetter are here, I told Cord and Beckett they could come inside. Mac's parents are talking to your parents."
"Oh, Lord." She pressed a hand to her stomach. "Why does that make me nervous?"
"Relax. It seemed like they were having a good time talking," said Sonja.
She'd met Mr. and Mrs. Callahan last night when they arrived.
She had no idea what to expect, but it wasn't a petite woman standing next to a tall, slender man.
Both of them hugged her and welcomed her to the family.
They spent most of their time visiting with Jetter, whom they only see once a year.
But like her folks, they preferred to go home after the wedding rather than stay on the mountain.
Lauren nodded, took one last deep breath, and turned toward her best friend. "Do I look okay?"
Sonja clutched her hands to her chest. "You look beautiful."
She patted her hair. She'd woven sprigs of holly she'd found off the trail around the bun.
"I'm so happy for you." Sonja reached out and stopped herself from hugging her. "I don't want to mess up perfection."
"Oh, stop it." Lauren laughed. "Come here."
They embraced. "Remember, as soon as you go out there, I want you to turn on the camera. Then, touch the button on my phone." She pulled away. "Oh, and start the camera that is on the tripod."
"Got it."
She wouldn't show everything on her social media accounts. But she'd share enough to let her followers know how love was possible when you least expect it.
Sonja smoothed her dress. "Ready?"
She nodded. There were no doubts about what she wanted in her life. Mac was her mountain man.
"Give me thirty seconds."
"Sonja?" She stepped closer. "Thanks again for all your help."
"I'd do anything for you." Sonja squeezed her hand. "Love you."
"Love you, too."
Her best friend slipped out of the room.
Lauren closed her eyes, trying to calm herself down.
She wanted to see Mac and Jetter. Sonja had kidnapped her last night and made her stay in Cabin Four, telling her it was bad luck to see the groom before the wedding.
Her mom walked over and spent a couple of hours with them, talking about her future and teasing her about babies.
It was exactly what she needed. Even her mom had kept her opinions to herself. She seemed genuinely happy that Lauren was getting married. Though, from what she understood, her parents were more than ready to return to civilization, which was also fine by her.
She opened the door and stepped out into the hallway. From there, she could see into the lobby of the lodge. It no longer looked like a welcoming room for campers.
The room was quiet except for the crackle of the fire.
Her parents stood near the hearth with Mac's parents, bundled in coats, still looking slightly stunned but smiling.
Sonja was at the front, her clipboard tucked under one arm, her gaze filled with excitement and warmth for her.
Cord and Beckett, handsome and solemn, flanked the door.
And there, in the center of it all, stood Mac.
He wore the new clothes she'd ordered for him and had his hair combed back. His gaze was locked on her. He gave her all the confidence she needed.
Mac winked. She caught her lip, feeling that familiar jolt of pleasure go through her.
Beside him, Jetter stood tall in his blue flannel and jeans, his boots planted firmly, his chin lifted. Mac's son was playing a big part in their wedding today.
He was Mac's best man. And because Sonja was officiating the wedding, she decided to have Jetter be her man of honor. Her person.
She gazed around the room. White emergency candles burned on every surface. Unlike when Mac proposed, the candles were decorated with snips of pine branches and pinecones with dark green ribbon.
Lauren walked slowly, each step bringing her closer to Mac. He didn't move, didn't blink. But his eyes—Oh, Lord, his eyes said everything.
When she reached him, he took her hands in his, rough palms warm against her skin.
Sonja started, her voice quiet and intimate, but Lauren barely caught the words. She was focused on Mac. Watching how he looked at her like she was the only thing that had ever mattered.
They spoke their vows quietly, without scripts or rehearsals. She wanted their hearts to speak only the truth.
"I'll love you in the quiet," Mac said, "and in the storms, through all seasons. I'll protect you with my life, and I'll never walk away."
Lauren's voice trembled, but she didn't falter. "I'll choose you every day. I'll honor your past, your son, your mountain. I'll be your home."
Sonja smiled, eyes glistening. "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife."
Mac pulled her close and slowly kissed her deeply. She clung to the front of his flannel and leaned against his broad chest.
Jetter whooped. Avaline clapped. Beckett and Cord exchanged quiet nods.
Lauren wound her arms around his waist and whispered, "I love you."
He kissed her softly. "I love you."
And in that moment, surrounded by those she loved, Lauren knew the mountain would always be her home.
#mountainlife #happilyeverafter #love #mountainman #vibes