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Within an hour of Dad’s call, the family was assembled on the beach with a judge and a license. Sabrina had changed into a summery dress and made sure Tabitha looked great despite the short notice.
Sean was in a suit but had the left the tie behind. Jason stood next to his friend in dress pants and a dress shirt but no jacket or tie. Chris was next in line and looked uncomfortable with the lack of planning.
It was as brief as a courthouse style ceremony would be. The couple hadn’t written vows or chosen anything to be read yet.
The critical part was Veronica. She stood there with some flowers smiling, not trying to get away. Mrs. Drake was always just behind Veronica, however, just in case.
“Rings?” the judge asked.
“We haven’t gotten them yet,” Tab said.
“Hang on.” Jason pulled out a box. “I ran by the jewelry shop while you were getting ready. They’re basic but you can exchange them or at least have them sized.”
“Thanks,” Sean said.
Sabrina smiled. Jason cared about the details.
With the rings done, the coupled kissed and were married. It was so quick and simple yet such a life-changing event. Sean was now family. Tabitha would be living with him. In a way, Sabrina was letting both her sisters go in a way.
A tear rolled down Sabrina’s cheek as everyone applauded. Tab hugged Veronica and Meredith then turned to her twin.
“You okay?” Tab asked.
Sab nodded. “Thrilled. I just thought I would have more time to process.”
Jason cleared his throat. “We need to get these two ladies to the airport.”
“I can drive them,” Chris offered.
“No, you stay. If family goes, I’ll never get on the plane,” Veronica said.
Everyone hugged Veronica, then she and Mrs. Drake headed off to Jason’s car.
A couple hours later, Jason texted Sabrina that they’d gotten on the plane without a struggle. He wanted to talk to her.
She replied that she was at the gallery.
He’d expected some beach party to celebrate but she was working.
“No luncheon?” he asked as he entered.
Sabrina shrugged. “Party tonight on the beach. Mom is getting the catering worked out now. Tabitha already packed a few bags and moved next door.”
Jason grinned. “And you’re back at it?”
She shrugged. “I’m going to travel more. I was making some lists for Tabitha.”
“Going away soon?” Jason asked.
“I’m not sure. With the reception moved back, I have time. What about you?” she asked.
He shook his head. “I turned down a few things. I like being here for the summer. But if you want company...”
Her brow furrowed. “What?”
“I’ll have to promote the movies coming out and eventually I’ll find something I want to do. Until then, I want to spend time with you. Here or wherever,” he said.
“You said I couldn’t handle your life. I’m too sweet.” She shook her head.
“I was wrong. I thought you were happy here and didn’t want to leave. I want to see the adventurous artist side of you. There’s a lot we don’t know about each other. My life is weird compared to most people but it sounds like yours might be too, if you live the life that you want to.”
She nodded. “And you just go along for the ride?”
He smiled. “I won’t get in the way or rush you. I’ve traveled a lot but it’s all for work. Being on location sounds nice but it’s still work. I want to see the world through your eyes. Unless you’re over me, hate me, and want me to leave.”
Sabrina looked at him for what seemed a long, long time. Finally she murmured, “Follow me.” She led him upstairs.
He followed.
When she went into her bedroom, he paused but walked in.
Jason watched her open her closet and pull out six large canvases. His breath caught when he realized they were all paintings of him.
“You’re very talented,” he said.
“This is why I couldn’t show all of what I did last winter. It’d be so obvious,” she said.
He pulled her to him and kissed her softly. “I had your picture up in my dressing room every day I was gone. I can’t tell you how many times I looked at it. I just couldn’t call you. Hearing your voice and not being here made me nuts.”
“You never asked me to visit,” she pointed out.
“I know. I didn’t think you’d want to see that world. It’s not nice. I mean, a movie set is interesting the first time but the business is cutthroat,” he said.
“So is the art world. I’m tougher than you think. Let’s see if we can make it traveling for my work and yours.” She smiled.
He kissed her and lingered over the happiness he’d given up on.
“Where do you want to go?” she asked.
“Anywhere you are. After we attend the party tonight,” Jason said.
She nodded. “Right, I think we need to find a wedding gift for them.”
He held out a hand. “Let’s go shopping. I want to enjoy this island before you whisk me away.”
Laughing, she followed him downstairs.