"We're marrying in Olive Township next weekend," I tell my mom once we're settled in her living room. "It'll be small. In the orchard. Family, and close friends." Hugo and I share a smile. We know it's fast, but nothing about us has been typical. No other person in the world could possibly be as right for one another, and waiting is unnecessary.
"Is that an invitation?" my mom asks tentatively.
I nod. "Yes."
"I wouldn't miss it."
We spend the afternoon with my mom. My stepdad makes an appearance, but not for long. It's the way he's always been, and I don't expect anything different from him.
"She has closure now, you know?" I say to Hugo whenwe're on our way back to Olive Township. My head rests against the car seat. "Maybe things will change."
Hugo takes my hand, kisses my knuckles. "It's looking like they will. She's coming next weekend."
I hum happily. "Next weekend... when I get to become your wife."
He nips the knuckle on my middle finger. "You're already my girl."
A slow smile curves my lips. "Good thing I didn't let it deter me when you ignored all my emails."
He chuckles. "I thought you were a nosy little podcaster who wanted to stir up trouble."
I shimmy my shoulders. "I am a nosy little podcaster, and I most definitely want to stir up trouble."
"Just wait until I get you home, Mallory. I'll show you trouble."
"Promises, promises," I tsk.
He laughs. "I love you."
"I love you, too."
We drive east, the sunset in the rearview, bidding us farewell with its brilliant pinks and purples. I may have called Phoenix home for the first twenty-eight years of my life, but Olive Township beckons me.
My hand finds the back of Hugo's neck as he drives, my fingers curling over his warm skin, gliding up into his hair. He groans, a sound of contentment.
Peanut and I are the luckiest girls in the world.
Chapter 50
Hugo
I married Mallory,not in the wedding hall we built recently, but among the olive trees, where my dad walked. A place where I can close my eyes and hear the rich baritone of his laughter. Feel his gait beneath me as I sat atop his shoulders.
When I look into Mallory's brown eyes and pledge my everlasting love and devotion to her, I know he is present.
"I felt him today," my mother says later, eyes shiny with unshed tears. "When I was getting ready. I looked in the mirror, and I felt his hands on my shoulders."
"I believe it, Mom." I kiss her on the cheek. "I've never given much thought to how it all must've been for you when he died. You were devastated, but it didn't keep you from taking good care of us. How did you manage that?"
"Hugo, my boy," she reaches up, pats my cheek. "I could see your father in your faces. My broken heart came second to my responsibility to you and your sister."
"Thank you, Mom. I mean it." I hug her, spot mywifeover her shoulder. Mallory smiles wide. Happy and beautiful. I send her a wink.
I'm not a gambling man, but I'd bet someone had a hand in bringing her to me.
Chapter 51
Olive Township
