Page 121 of Love so Hot

As I finish, I glance out at the audience, and suddenly it hits me. My family is here, beaming with pride. Lawrence's friends -Victor, Sebastian, and Roman - are all giving us thumbs up. And even River, who Lawrence insisted on inviting, although I think that was more of a "she's mine now" sort of move, is actually smiling instead of scowling.

I lean in to whisper to Larry, "Is this real life? Did we actually manage to get everyone we care about in one place without a fistfight breaking out?"

He chuckles softly. "Miracles do happen, Wildflower. Especially when you're involved."

As we turn to face our guests, I'm overwhelmed by the love and support radiating from every corner of this living, breathing chapel. It's like the whole forest is celebrating with us.

And suddenly, I'm hit with a wave of pure, unadulterated happiness. We did it. We actually did it. Not just getting married, but finding a way to make our values align. The pipeline project is history, replaced by something that won't make Mother Nature weep. All of the easements that Sinclair Shipping purchased are going to be put to use for solar installations. And here we are, surrounded by nature, family, and friends, proving that love really can conquer all.

I squeeze Larry's hand. "Who would've thought," I murmur, "that we'd end up here?"

He grins that infuriatingly charming grin of his. "I did. From the moment I saw you up in that tree, I knew you were the one."

I roll my eyes, but can't help smiling. "You're impossible."

"That's why you love me," he retorts.

And as we walk down the aisle, showered in petals and cheers, I realize he's right. It's exactly why I love him.

The End.

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