Epilogue
Caleb
She walks toward me, looking even more incredible than before. Every day, my beautiful biologist makes my face ache with happiness. “God, she looks like an angel,” my mother whispers from her seat in the front row.
Vivien approaches on her father’s arm. It’s the last time she’ll need to lean on him.
From now on, she’ll be mine and mine alone.
The thought pulses against my temples, demanding I drag her to my side and claim her as mine already.
Still, I remain calm. It’s only a few more minutes, and then I can have Vivien as my wife.
“Mr. Williams,” I greet my father-in-law.
“Caleb, son. You better take good care of her.”
“Always, sir.” I shake his hand before he places hers in mine.
I take her hand and squeeze it lightly. “So perfect. Viv, you are the most beautiful bride in the world.”
“Thank you, my handsome groom.” I pull her to my chest and tip her chin with the edges of my thumb and forefinger.
“I love you, Viv, my wife.” A stiff cough came from in front of us.
“Should we continue?” the officiant said.
Vivien blushes, ducking her head softly before addressing the officiant. “Yes, we should.”
“Sorry, I’m just obsessed with her.”
“Good to know. Now, let’s get you two married and let the obsession be official.
” He performs the wedding, and we are husband and wife in less than ten minutes.
The first kiss as a married couple is savored.
I cup the back of her neck and drag her close, bringing my lips down to hers as I snake my other hand around her waist so our bodies are flush against each other.
We’re supposed to walk to the back of the church, but I’m unable to stop myself and I scoop her up into my arms and cradle her as I carry her down the aisle. The crowd erupts in laughter and cheers. “Way to go, Dr. Hall,” Heather shouts.
“Yeah,” Sam cheers. “Missed opportunity,” he adds.
Viv’s laugh vibrates against my chest. The feeling stops me in my tracks. I gently set her on her feet before pulling her in for a deep kiss. “Dr. Hall,” Viv gasps.
“I just couldn’t resist another stolen moment, and need I remind you it’s Caleb, or even Husband?”
“Yes, Husband.” She reaches out and caresses my cheek, bringing my face closer and kissing me again.
“Are you two ever going to get out of the way?”
“Yeah, we’re glad there isn’t a fire or anything,” her brother scoffs before hugging his sister and snapping a selfie. “Now on to the food. This guy is starving here,” he continues, rubbing his stomach.
“Come, Wife. Time to sail off into the sunset.” We head out to the yacht where our reception is being held. It’s a splendid night, and before the night is over, I sneak my wife away to our private cabin where we’ll start our honeymoon.