Page 81 of Fake Engaged to the Enemy

And yet, here we are.

We reach the end of the aisle. I kiss Grandma’s cheek and walk the last few steps to George’s side.

Edwina and Jason are in the front row. Grandma sits next to them.

Tears are streaming down Edwina’s face as she beams at us. Even Jason pats his eyes every so often.

Our relationship is tremendous. George’s parents have taken to heart everything he’s said to them.

Edwina still does overstep sometimes, but she is very conscious about apologizing when we bring it up.

Jason has started to be more active in changing up their home décor. It seems to me that they’re both more comfortable in their own home now.

“Welcome, family and friends,” our officiant greets. “We are here for the joining of Catherine Hart and George Callahan. Marriage is about unity. These two have decided to unite their lives into one life, one family.”

I grin at George. My heart beats faster as we join hands. Tears glimmer in his eyes, too. I attempt a wink at him,

We have a bet. I say he’s going to be the first to cry. He says I am.

The winner gets breakfast in bed every Sunday for a month.

“The couple has chosen to write their own vows,” the officiant says.

George takes the mic. “Catherine. I love you so much. I can’t believe that I’m lucky enough that you want to build a life with me.”

Oh no.

He’s being so sweet!

His face blurs and I flap my hands at my eyes.

“You’re only saying that to win our bet,” I sniff.

George laughs as he reaches out, dabbing my eyes with his handkerchief. “Then I better keep going. You are the most amazing woman I’ve ever met. Words can’t express how much I love you. I promise that I will always be here for you. I will always look after you.”

He laughs as his voice breaks. “Look at that—I lost the bet.”

I half-laugh, half-sob with happiness. I wipe the tear from his eye.

“George, you have shown me what it means to trust another person. You have stood for me even when I didn’t know how to stand for myself. I swear, I will stand with you throughout all of our challenges. And I promise I’ll try not to steal all the blankets at night.”

Our guests laugh.

“Thank you,” I whisper. “For everything.”

The officiant takes back the mic. We exchange rings, the silver tones sparkling in the sunlight.

“I now present George and Catherine, husband and wife,” the officiant declares.

Everyone starts cheering. George and I lean forward together. Our lips press together for the first time as a married couple.

***

One wonderful party and lots of celebrating later, George and I retreat to our honeymoon bliss.

The tide pools are currently beneath the tide. I look forward to seeing them in the morning.

George checks the air mattress and nods in satisfaction. “Looks like it’s holding the air after all.”

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