“That would be me.”
“Our cue to leave,” Jaxon said, the others groaning as they walked away.
As soon as I captured her mouth, I felt all eyes on us. We certainly weren’t a traditional couple, but we did draw attention everywhere we went. I could only imagine the field day the press would have when the news hit the streets.
The taste of her was powerful and I could do this for hours, but we both sensed a presence standing a little too close.
I pulled away, eyeing my sister and grandmother. “What are the two of you doing?” My voice was a little gruffer than it should be, which prompted my wife to elbow me.
Hard.
“We have a gift for the bride,” Emmeline said, handing Catherine a small bag while winking.
“This is exactly what you need, dear,” my grandmother told her.
“Is this what I think it is?” Catherine was way too excited.
“What are you doing?” My challenge was met with laughter.
Emmeline squeezed my arm. “As a new member of the family, she’ll need all the help she can get.”
As soon as Catherine pulled out the small mesh bag, I cringed. “Gris-gris? Really?”
“Don’t worry, big brother. All for assisting with ensuring a happy marriage.” My sister grinned and all I could do was shake my head.
My grandmother placed Catherine’s hand on the bag, pulling my hand free until I allowed her to place mine on my angel’s. “May your love be blessed by all those who support you and those who don’t can go straight to hell.”
Catherine burst into laughter and nuzzled against me.
Emmeline blew us a kiss and both ladies walked away.
“I adore your grandmother.”
I noticed Jimmy approaching and bristled. “Just don’t spend too much time with her or she might indoctrinate you into becoming a witch.”
“You’re assuming I’m not already.”
“I learned a long time ago never to assume anything.”
“What’s wrong?”
“I don’t know.” I stepped away from her, even starting to block her. “Jimmy. What are you doing here?”
“I’m sorry, sir. I know this is your reception. I just… Well, I brought you a wedding present. It’s not much but I had to say thank you.”
Catherine moved by my side. “Thank you. That’s very sweet of you.” She accepted the colorfully wrapped gift while lifting her confused gaze.
“For what exactly?” I pushed.
Jimmy nodded. “My daughter. The doctors have called it a miracle.” He smiled seeing my confusion. “Her cancer. There’s no trace of it. They’ve tested her ten different times. It just disappeared. I know that’s because of… Well, the night in the cemetery and I just wanted to thank you.” He held out his hand and as strange as it seemed, I shook it.
More amused than anything else. I doubted my poor attempt at handling gris-gris had anything to do with her improved condition.
“I’m happy for you, Jimmy.”
“You’re a good man.” He smiled, nodding to Catherine and walking away.
“A good man, huh?” She turned toward me, throwing her arms around me again. “Is there something I should know? Do you go around in the middle of the night creeping in cemeteries for fun?”
