Page 119 of Both Sides Now

All my life, I never understood the stupid smile that grooms wore when they first saw their bride. Now, here I am, a goofy grin lighting up my face as Calli walks toward me.

My woman is gorgeous, no doubt about it. Even today, she embraces her bohemian side, wearing a light, flowing gown that highlights her auburn hair and pale skin. On her finger is a tanzanite and diamond ring that I designed, the color the closest I could find to match her incredible eyes.

But the most radiant part of her is the brilliant smile she’s wearing, meant only for me.

Her parents escort her down the aisle, and I count my blessings that they warmed to me immediately. Hell, I worried the idea of a new man might send them into a tailspin, but they were over the moon that their daughter had met someone to reignite her glow.

And shedoesglow. But only Calli and I know why. At least for the present.

That’s a surprise for another day.

Calli reaches my side and hands off her bouquet to Suzanne before clasping my hands, her entire being awash with love.

Love that belongs to me.

“Hi, my love. Are you ready?” she asks.

“More than.”

Anything life wants to throw at me, I’m ready, so long as I have her by my side.

Epilogue

CALLISTA

FIFTEEN MONTHS LATER …

There’s a bite to the air. Winter is showing her face early this year, even by Hudson Valley standards.

But despite the chill, it’s good to be back.

Keegan parks the Jeep and clasps my hand, bringing it to his lips. “Are you okay?”

I lean across the interior, drawing him into a deep kiss. “As long as you’re by my side, I’m fabulous.”

Understatement of the century. With Keegan Russo, my life is perfect.

He grins, locking me in the moment before gesturing out the window. “Go ahead. I’ll be right there.”

Popping out of the Jeep, I grab the enormous mixed bouquet from the backseat and begin my journey up the gentle incline. It’s a trip I’ve taken countless times over the past few years, but it’s been several months since my last visit.

I’m reasonably sure Charlie understands.

As per custom, I kneel by his stone, brushing away the late-season pollen and fallen leaves.

“Winter has arrived early this year, my darling Charlie. But I know you’re warm where you are.”

I replace the wilted bouquet with the newly purchased one, grateful for Shawn and Suzanne’s religious pilgrimage to his grave every month. Per my request, they leave a bouquet so that the world will know this man was loved. They’ve never missed a visit.

“Sorry I haven’t been around. It’s been a busy year. Keegan’s practice has taken off, I opened a new wellness center, and we’re settling into our new home. There have been so many exciting events these past months.”

“Can’t forget what has been taking up most of our time,” Keegan states behind me, and I turn, a smile stretching across my face as I take our son into my arms.

I rest him on my knee and place his tiny hand against the cool marble. “You know how you told me that you hoped I had a houseful of kids to keep me up all night? We didn’t need a houseful. One is doing the job brilliantly. This is our son. His name is Oliver Charles Russo. A part of you lives on through him, and I hope you’ll bless his life just as you blessed mine.”

Keegan helps me to a standing position, pulling both Oliver and me close to his chest.

There’s such a comfort in this man’s arms. No wonder I spend so much time here.

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