41

Rosie sat beside Maria in the back of the church.

People crowded in around the bride and groom, laughing, hugging and congratulating the newlyweds who still stood at the front of the church. No formalities here, no receiving line, just joyful celebration.

“Beautiful wedding, don’t you think?” Maria whispered.

The bride had been so grateful for Maria providing the flowers in spite of her circumstances. She’d insisted Maria and Rosie stay for the wedding.

“It was. You could see the love on their faces. No wonder you love your job. Flowers make people happy.”

“Most of the time.” Maria didn’t mention that flowers were part of the funeral ritual as well. “Ready to go?”

“Sure.”

“How did you get to The Bouquet?” Maria asked, once they were in the car. “Is your car there?”

“I don’t have a car. I walked.”

“I’ll drop you off at your house.”

“You don’t have to do that. I can walk. It’s not that far.”

“It’s not a bother. Where do you live?”

Rosie’s cheeks turned pink. “It’s outside of town. My mom and I live in one of the rooms at the Dew Drop Inn.”

“Never heard of it.”

“It’s just a tiny motel. Not very nice, but it’s all we can afford for now.”

“I’m sure it’s fine.”

“It’s horrible actually.” Rosie shrugged. “But my mom’s sick and can’t work right now. We’re blessed to have a roof over our head.”

“I’m so sorry.” Maria was glad she’d offered Rosie a job. She reached in her purse and pulled out three twenties. “For today’s work.”

“That’s too much.”

“Not for today. It was special circumstances. From now on, I’ll make sure to pay you on time. How’s that sound?”

Rosie nodded and took the money. “Can we stop at the grocery store before you take me out? That way I can pick up some food. And maybe some orange juice for my mom. It might make her feel better.”

“Great idea. I need a few things, as well. I’m planning to go back to my own apartment tonight.” She bit her lip at the thought of the empty home, but Suzanne was right. She couldn’t go to bed and give up.

Honor God would be her mantra for now.

She’d taken steps today to reclaim her life, and in the process made two people’s lives a little better. Four, if she counted Rosie and her mother.