“I love you, Devon. It’s as simple as that.”
Epilogue
The day was windy andwarm. It was rare, but not unheard of to see such weather in Merrimac. Chloe took it as a sign they were doing the right thing, considering the way strong winds followed them on special occasions. The baby inside her moved as if in agreement.
“Just a few more hours and Daddy will be my husband,” she whispered as she cupped her belly. She wasn't showing yet as long as she wore the right clothes, but she would soon.
With everything they’d gone through, Chloe couldn't wait to marry Devon, have their baby, and settle in for their version of happily ever-after. Their love had grown from his shattered heart, and though she wished he hadn't had to suffer in such a way, it had brought them together. Ultimately, it was a blessing in disguise, as she knew her parents had said.
The only dim spot in her day was the appearance of the Keystones. There was a rumor going around that they wanted to take her measure as their granddaughter’s stepmother, which was of course laughable. They never cared much for their flesh and blood, treating a little girl as an afterthought. Chloe didn't fall for their fake charm and excuses, but they insisted to Lydia they would be there.
Alicia helped her with her veil, and then it was time. Lori held the door at the back of the house so Chloe could step out into the sunshine and vow to love her soulmate for eternity. The symbolism was important; everything had been dark in Devon’s life for a long time, the only sunny days coming from his daughter. So on their wedding day, they would stand in the sun and make vows between the three of them.
Walking down the grassy aisle didn't unnerve her. It was what she wanted, and nothing could slow her down. Seeing the faces of her friends and family only made the moment that much sweeter. She suppressed a frown when she spotted Gloria and Jude Keystone, and didn't allow them to bother her past that moment.
Devon waited under an arbor of flowers, one he’d built and they erected together. It was only one of many projects they’d undertaken to personalize their home. Chloe felt her face and knew she radiated bliss. Hailey stood to the right of her father, wearing a white dress with a pink sash and a crown of flowers. The three of them held hands as they listened to the officiant read the words meant to bind them legally in the way they already were emotionally.
When the pronouncement came, they were husband, wife and daughter. Hailey squealed, throwing her bouquet in the air and wrapping herself around Chloe. Her daughter didn't hug with her arms; she hugged with her entire body. Heart pounding, Chloe picked Hailey up and kissed Devon.
“We did it!”
“He’ll just end up killing his second wife, too.”
Gasps followed that whispered vitriol. Maybe no one was meant to hear it, or maybe it was intentionally said loud enough to carry. Either way, Chloe wouldn't stand for it.
“Time to go, old woman.”
Gloria clutched her necklace. “How dare you speak to me in such a manner?”
“How dare you come to my wedding and insult my husband? Everyone knows you don't care about Hailey, including her, so just leave.”
“What everyone knows is that Devon is responsible for killing Kathy!”
At that point, Jude was red as a beet, Caleb stood directly behind them with an expression which made it clear he was ready to throw them out physically, and Devon . . . well, he grinned.
“Gloria, let’s go now.” Jude tugged on her elbow.
