Page 63 of Pieces Into Place

Giggles echo off the snow-dusted pine trees as we frolic in the white powdery landscape of Christmas Valley. The aroma of hot cocoa and fresh pastries drift from the large mountain home behind us, where parents, grandparents, Henry and his wife, and Smitty’s mom, Ms. Sandy Smith and her husband Alan are gathered inside.

No longer is this the tiny A-frame cabin Kane and I had called home on that fateful four-week trip during which we’d fallen madly in love three years ago – this is Marcus’s palatial mansion. It has ten bedrooms, three bathrooms, and all the amenities needed for a gathering of our size. It almost seems too grand to be true. Everyone inside or out here in the snow right now is an invited guest at our wedding tomorrow. Something I could never have imagined when I was unable to even date just a few years prior.

The wedding is tomorrow. Holy Crap. I’m getting married tomorrow.

Sometimes, I still can’t believe it. I’m marrying my lover and best friend, and as a bonus I get about thirty other people who love and care for me. Everyone from Callan, Marcus, James and Colby’s families, plus my own set of new twin siblings and their families.

My closest bond is with my soon to be mother-in-law. Millie has been the mother I have missed so desperately. She is always ready with advice, a hug, or just to have a glass of wine and a laugh with.

My eyes start to fill with tears, and I’m about to turn away when I feel Kane’s strong arms come around me from behind. He places a soft kiss on my cold cheek and whispers “Hi, Livvy Love,” into my ear. His warmth is comforting as he nestles his head against my shoulder.

The sensation of being embraced releases the emotions I’ve been holding inside, and soon I’m nestled into Kane’s chest, fighting back happy tears. “Thank you for this life,” I profess in between gasps of air. “I’m so happy, beyond anything I ever thought possible.”

Kane tenderly strokes my back, his lips pressing against the top of my head in reassurance.

“You deserve everything and more, Liv,” he says. Then he looks deeply into my eyes and asks, “Are you ready to change your name for the last time tomorrow?”

A satisfied smile spreads across my face as I take in the beautiful sunset behind us. The rehearsal dinner is fast approaching and I can feel my heart pounding with excitement at the thought of taking that final step toward our future together.

Taking a deep breath, I look up at Kane and say firmly, “Yes, I’m ready to be the person I’ve always been meant to be.” ♥️