Page 56 of Beyond the Darkness

“Oh, wow, it does look like that. Doesn’t XOXO means kisses or something?”

“The X represents a kiss, while the O represents a hug,” Kit said. “Supposedly the X is a stylized way of showing two mouths kissing, and the O looks like two pairs of arms connecting for a hug. XOXO is a symbol of love.”

“That’s perfect.” Connie handed Kit’s phone back to him. “I never in a hundred years would’ve thought of that. I love the idea.”

“It’s very fitting,” Hudson said.

“But is the design too feminine-looking for you guys?” Kit asked, biting his lip. “Maybe we should just get the normal, everyday channel-set rings.”

“Absolutely not. As Connie said, it’s perfect. It fits us, Kit. The ring you showed us has diamonds, though. Do you want that too?” Hudson asked.

“Yeah, if you don’t mind. We need some stone to represent the O’s part of it.”

“I agree,” Connie said, then looked at Hudson.

“Yes, I will supply the gemstones. Of course,” Hudson said.

“I’ll supply the gold,” Connie volunteered. “That way the ring is made out of something from both mine and Hudson’s hoard.”

“And I picked the design we’re going to use—something from all three of us.” Smiling happily, Kit looked back at his cell phone. “It really is perfect, isn’t it?”

“It really is,” Hudson said. “Tell us what you have in mind for the roses.”

Kit crackled. “Red roses everywhere—the centerpieces for the tables, on the wedding cake, the several arches I want, the tables with a buffet. Any and all columns wrapped in red roses. I want them everywhere. And I meaneverywhere. Of course, that means it’s going to cost a fortune.”

“Not a problem,” Hudson said.

“I hope you feel the same when you see the bill.”

“I will.”

“Also, usually, a wedding party has bridesmaids and groomsmen. And a maid of honor and a best man who stand with whoever is getting married. I don’t know if you guys want to do that but be thinking about it. The thing is, I honestly don’thave anybody who is in the know to stand with me outside of Austin.”

“I read about that too,” Connie said.

“We can worry about that later, though. It doesn’t have to be done. It could just be the three of us up there. And I’m perfectly fine with that,” Kit said. “Now, clothing.” Kit rubbed his hands together. “I’m wearing white, of course. Already have in mind what I want.”

“Are we not getting a hint?” Hudson asked.

Connie snickered.

“Oh, my love, you arenot,” Kit exclaimed. “I guess nobody’s told you, but you’re not supposed to see the bride before the wedding. I’m the bride, by the way.”

Hudson huffed.

“Yeah, good luck with that.” Connie outright laughed. “What do you want us to wear, though?”

“I know you guys usually wear black leather when the paranormal leaders meet, but I was hoping we could do something a little dressier.”

“What are you thinking?” Connie asked.

“Well, how do you feel about tuxedos done in white and red?” Kit grabbed his phone again. “Let me show you what I’m thinking, and you guys tell me if you’re agreeable. I want you to like whatever you’re wearing. Here are some examples.” Kit handed over his phone when he found what he was looking for.

“I like the red shirt, vest, and pants with the white duster,” Hudson said. “And I really like the white top hat. It almost has a Victorian feel to the suit.”

“Victorian Goth, maybe,” Connie added.

“That’s Raven, sweetheart, not me. But I do like this.” Hudson tapped Kit’s cell phone. “It’s very… elegant.”

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