Page 31 of CJ

“If we’re bein’ honest, sooner rather than later. I know you’re both adults, but it would be best if you married before babies come along.”

“Okay, Aunt Claudette,” smiled CJ. “How about this Friday?” Claudette had a big smile on her face and clapped her hands.

“Well, now. That’ll be just fine. I’ll make all the arrangements and be sure to get the food ready with George and Sara. Gwen can get a dress ready for you,” she smiled.

“Oh, I don’t need anything fancy. Just a simple ivory dress is fine,” said Jill.

“Don’t you want a wedding dress?” asked CJ.

“I mean, I suppose I do, but I don’t have to have it,” she said, blushing.

“Jill, this is your wedding. Our wedding. The only one we’ll ever have, I can promise that. I want you to have everything that you’ve ever wanted for your wedding. If you want a gown, wear a gown. If you want a dress, wear a dress. Hell, wear pants if you want. Flowers? Take your pick,” he said, sweeping his arm across the path. “There are more varieties here than at any botanical gardens I know of.”

“Alright,” she nodded, laughing at them. “I have always dreamed of a long gown. Nothing fancy or sparkling, just something simple.”

“Fine, fine,” nodded Claudette. “Flowers?”

“I don’t know,” she said, looking around her. “Everything is so beautiful here, and it smells divine. Can you put together a bouquet for me? Something you think is appropriate?”

“I can do that,” smiled Claudette. “We’re not all that far off from Mardi Gras, so some purples and golds, a little green mixed in with it.”

“Sounds perfect to me,” grinned CJ.

“Who will walk you down the aisle?” asked the older woman.

“Oh. Oh, I hadn’t really thought about that,” frowned Jill. “I-I haven’t had time to think…”

She trailed off, and CJ could tell this was an emotional moment for her. She’d been without her father a very long time, but her wedding would be a day that she would definitely miss him. She whispered something, and CJ looked at her.

“What did you say, honey?” asked Claudette. Jill looked up and around the grove, finally connecting with the face she needed. She walked slowly toward him, and he grinned.

“Good to see you, Morgan. We’re damn happy you’re here permanently,” said Ham.

“Ham, I need a favor.”

“Anything. Is CJ being an asshole?”

“No. I’m not, thank you very much for the vote of confidence,” smirked CJ.

“He’s being a perfect gentleman,” smiled Jill. “No, I have something really important and difficult to ask of you.” Ham frowned at her.

“Of course. Anything.”

“I need someone to walk me down the aisle this weekend,” she grinned. Ham stared at her, then back at CJ. “I’ve known you the longest, Ham. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you. Please. Will you?”

“Shit, Morgan,” he stammered, tugging on his beard. “Me? Are you sure?”

“Positive.”

“Hell, yeah,” he laughed. “I’d be fucking honored to walk you down the aisle.” She hugged him fiercely, then stepped back with tears in her eyes.

“Thank you, Ham.”

“Did you make this girl cry?” asked Sadie.

“No. I mean, sort of,” said Ham. “Jill asked me to walk her down the aisle. She’s decided to marry this idiot.”

“Ham! CJ is wonderful, and he’s going to make a great husband,” said Sadie. “I’m so happy for you both.” Sadie kissed their cheeks and then turned, hearing one of her own children screaming at the other. She rolled her eyes and turned to Ham.

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