Page 109 of Waging War
“Relax,” I mouth to him when his nervous eyes find mine.
The music gets louder, signaling the ceremony is officially starting. I look down at my niece, so small cradled in my big arms, and I swear to God my heart cracks right down the center.
“You know, I think you may have Aunt Hazel beat for most beautiful girl in the world, Emery Jaymes.”
Drool dribbles down her chin, and I swipe it with the end of my sleeve.
Hazel’s laugh tickles my neck as she pauses her walk quick enough to lean over my chair. “That’s a competition I’ll be happy to let her win.”
Love shines bright across her face, giving her a warm glow. She gifts me a quick kiss before walking the rest of the way toward the podium.
Juliana is next, winking at Derrick—who looks as if he could devour her right here in front of everyone. Then comes the moment we’ve all been waiting for.
We rise and face the back as Cassidy emerges with her mother, Glenda. She looks breathtaking in her long white gown. Every inch of it is covered in lace, and it slides along her body, kissing each curve as if it were designed with Cassidy in mind.
Glenda’s gait is jerky, and she uses her cane while leaning on Cass’s arm for support—but none of those things seem to bother the women as tears stream down both of their faces.
Rocking Emery in my arms, I smile at my beautiful sister-in-law.
“Thank you,” she says quietly once she sees me holding her now-sleeping daughter.
We take our seats again, and the two of them recite their vows.
I look at Emery’s rosy cheeks and soft blonde hair. How is it possible that I’m here, right now, watching my brother marry the love of his life while holding their precious child?
When Jack and I were children, there were no warm moments or love and care. We were a means for an assisted paycheck for our parents, and many nights we went without food, clean water, or safety.
But the child in my arms will never have to know what that’s like. She’ll never have to wonder if she’s loved, because everywhere she turns, she’ll have someone there. I raise my tear-blurred eyes to the woman who chose me, and in her gaze is everything Emery will see one day.
Hope, love, andhome.
THE END
