Page 107 of Taking What's Ours

I lace my fingers with hers and drive us out of the clubhouse parking lot and down the street toward home.

There’s a rattling noise, and I frown. “You hear that?”

“Yes. What is it?”

I pull over and go around to the back of the truck. There’s a bunch of tin cans on a string tied to the bumper. I notice they’ve also written on the tailgate.Just Hitched.Every time you honk, the bride has to kiss the groom.

I climb in the truck.

“What is it?” Elaina asks.

“Bunch of cans.”

“Did you take them off?”

“Nope. This only happens once in a lifetime. I’m going to enjoy every part of it.” I grin. “Oh, and every time you hear someone honk, you have to kiss me. Deal?”

She grins. “Deal.”

I drive us down Main Street, not that it’s the shortest way to our destination, but because I know my bride loves Christmas, and I want her to see the decorations. Lights are strung across the street, creating a canopy of light.

“Oh, honey. I just knew this town would be idyllic when it was transformed for Christmas. It’s magical.”

I pull her hand to my mouth and kiss it. “It is.”

We head to Rock’s cabin. He told us we could use it for the week. It’s high in the mountains, about an hour from town. By the time we get there, a light snow is falling.

When we pull up, there’s a pickup truck parked outside.

“Who’s here?” Elaina asks.

“Rock warned me he sent a prospect to light a fire for us and make sure the place was warm.”

“How thoughtful.”

She doesn’t know about the other surprise I have in store. I had to get the ol’ ladies to help with that. They came up yesterday.

I come around the truck and help Elaina out, then sweep her in my arms, long train and all.

The prospect is waiting at the open door and steps out, nodding.

“It’s all set. Congratulations, Baja. Ma’am.” He tips his head, then bolts for his truck.

I carry my bride across the threshold and set her down.

She looks around, and her mouth falls open.

There’s a fire roaring, candles lit, and flowers everywhere. The small dining table is set for two with elegant China and stemware. A bottle of non-alcoholic cider is chilling in a silver bucket. There’s a card propped against it.

I hand it to Elaina.

To the happy couple,

May you have a long and happy marriage, but first, enjoy your honeymoon.

Love, the ol’ ladies.

P.S. There’s a late-night meal warming in the oven. If you decide to forgo eating and head straight for the big bed, remember to turn off the oven.

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