Epilogue
Carter stood at the window, adjusting his cufflinks as his gaze skimmed over the guests assembled in the white chairs that had been placed in curved rows around the gazebo in the backyard.
The slight breeze lifted the ribbons, making the flowers dance as the late afternoon sun spilled its golden glow over the yard.
In another hour or so, it would be dark, and all the tiny white lights strung overhead would illuminate the small dance floor and the dozen tables that had been set up for dinner.
Though he would have gone along with whatever she wanted, Audrey had chosen to keep things simple.
She loved the gazebo in their backyard and thought it was the perfect place to get married.
He had to agree. It was now strewn with ribbons and flowers, and a long white aisle runner led from the back door of the house up to the steps of the gazebo.
In less than half an hour, he would be standing at the end of that runner, getting married to the love of his life. He couldn’t wait.
“Last chance.”
He swiveled his head toward Gideon, who lounged in the doorway, a teasing smile on his face as he flipped his keys around his fingers.
“Get outta here.”
Gideon laughed and pocketed the keys before coming closer. “You know I’m kidding. I wouldn’t let you run out on her.”
Carter knew he wouldn’t. Besides, he’d have to be cold and dead in the ground to ever give Audrey up.
She was it for him, and he couldn’t wait to have her by his side for the rest of their lives.
The past three months had been a whirlwind of activity as they planned the wedding, but he got to come home to her every night, so he was calling it a win.
Audrey was still at the VA, but he had resigned from Walker and Raines.
Edward hadn’t been charged with anything, but he hadn’t been able to lie to himself any longer.
A little over a month ago, he had taken Knox’s offer and was now working for Vantage, primarily covering the firearms classes as well as offering legal counsel when needed.
He planned to keep his license so he could continue to practice—on his terms this time.
Gideon adjusted Carter’s tie. “Jesus. Did you get dressed in the dark?”
“Whatever.” Part of him was nervous, and his hands were still shaking. It wasn’t the marriage part that worried him, exactly. He couldn’t explain it. He was a ball of nerves, nervousness and anticipation and a little fear all mingled together rolling around in his stomach.
“I’m just messing with you.” Gideon stepped back to inspect him, then clapped a hand on his shoulder. “You all good?”
No. “Yes.” Or he would be as soon as he saw Audrey.
“Good. I’ll see you down there.”
His best man headed out the door, and the sound of his footsteps trailed off as he headed downstairs.
Carter drew in a deep breath and glanced out the window again.
He recognized Jaxon, Adalyn, and their little girl, Jaclyn, in the front row, Luke seated next to them.
He imagined Hannah was with Audrey, helping her get ready.
His sister and her family were there, as well as Audrey’s family.
They’d cut the guest list at fifty people, and it looked like they were all here.
“Can I come in for a second?”
Carter turned to his father. “Of course.”
His father stepped close and gazed out the window. “Looks like everything’s ready.”
“Yep.”
He stared outside for another long moment before meeting Carter’s eyes. “You all ready?”
“I am.”
“Good.” He gave a little nod. “I’m glad you chose her.”
“Me, too.” Audrey meant more to him than anything, and he would spend the rest of his life showing her how much he loved her.
“Your mother would be happy.”
Emotion clogged Carter’s throat at the mention of his mother.
She’d only been gone for a little over a year, but her absence today was profound.
He wished with all his heart that she could have had the chance to meet Audrey because he was sure they would have loved each other. He swallowed hard. “I think so, too.”
His father pulled him into an awkward hug. “I’m proud of you.”
Emotion burned at the backs of Carter’s eyes, and he tightened his hold on his dad. Hearing him say that meant everything.
A long moment later, his father pulled away and tipped his head toward the window. “I’d better get down there. Good luck, son.”
Carter nodded, still trying to get his emotions under control.
Glancing in the mirror one last time, he took a deep breath and checked his reflection.
He smoothed his suit jacket, then straightened his tie one last time before getting ready to head downstairs.
A soft click drew his attention to the door—closed now, Audrey leaning against it.
His gaze flitted over every inch of her, clad in a lacy white dress. He struggled for words. “Don’t you know it’s bad luck to let me see you before the wedding?”
“I don’t care.” She pushed off the door, and he met her halfway, pulling her into his arms. “We’ll make our own luck.”
He stared down at her. “Is everything okay?”
“I just needed to see you.”
Not wanting to smear her makeup, he dropped a soft kiss on her forehead. “I’m right here, babe. I’m not going anywhere.”
“Ever?” She tipped her head up, a little smile teasing the corners of her mouth. There was no mistaking the worry in her eyes, though, and he lifted his hands to frame her face.
“Ever.” Disregarding the pink lipstick coating her pretty lips, he dipped his head and kissed her between words. “You… Are… Mine.”
He pulled back to look at her, those big blue eyes cutting straight to his heart as a smile lit her face. “You ready to do this?”
He dropped his hand and laced his fingers with hers. “Let’s go.”
Hand in hand, they headed down the stairs and toward their future—together.
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