38

PEERING INTO THE grand foyer mirror, Aurora adjusted the angle of her large floral hat and re-tied the sash of her pink gown, the perfect outfit for Brianna and Gil’s wedding. If only Aurora could share in the joy of the day. But such a romantic occasion made her yearn for Gabe all the more.

The fact that she’d had no word from him chipped away at her confidence. Perhaps he’d joined the fighting and couldn’t contact her. Or perhaps he’d forgotten about her, after all.

Approaching footsteps alerted Aurora to her parents’ presence.

“Come, daughter. We mustn’t be late for the wedding of the year.” Her father’s voice echoed over the tiled entry.

Her mother moved to the mirror. “You look lovely, dear.”

“Thank you, Mama. So do you.” Aurora did her best to smile, knowing how worried her mother had been about her. The typhoid epidemic had taken its toll on everyone involved.

Papa threw Aurora a sullen glance. “You could be basking in the glow of your own upcoming nuptials, if you’d accepted Dr. Reardon’s proposal.” He pulled his ornate walking stick from the stand in the corner. “Just how long do you intend to wait for this Irishman with not even a word from him?”

A stabbing pain invaded the region of Aurora’s heart. Papa had touched on the very core of her fear, that if Gabe were alive, surely he would have sent some word to her. Or had being back in his homeland caused his feelings to fade? She swallowed her insecurities and stiffened her spine. “I’ll wait as long as it takes, Papa. Until I know for certain one way or another.”

Before her father could comment further, she walked out the door to the waiting car.

Thankfully Papa remained silent on the drive to the church. As the chauffeur pulled up in front of the quaint stone building, Aurora gave herself a stern lecture. This was Brianna and Gil’s big day. After countless setbacks, they would now see the fulfilment of their dreams. Aurora was relieved that her long-held bitterness toward the couple had disappeared, and she would do nothing to take away from their joy. She only prayed that one day she, too, would experience such a wondrous occasion.

Her father held out a hand to help her alight from the automobile. She straightened and inhaled the crisp air. The first hint of color had begun to tint the leaves. A mild breeze teased the ribbons on her hat and blew the hem of her dress around her ankles as she turned toward the church.

At the base of the stairs, a shaggy-haired man leaned on a crutch. Aurora squinted. Surely this vagrant wasn’t one of the wedding guests. The man moved away from the railing, and something about his demeanor made Aurora’s heart stutter in her chest.

“Do I look that bad that you don’t recognize me?”

She stifled a cry with one gloved hand. Was she dreaming?

Crutch under his arm, Gabe limped toward her, gazing at her with an intensity that left her knees weak. Tears blurred the sight of his beloved face.

On legs as wobbly as a new colt’s, she darted forward. He dropped his crutch and caught her in his arms.

“Aurora, mo ghrá. How I’ve missed you.” He crushed her to him.

“Is it really you?”

“No one else.” His Irish lilt was even more pronounced after being home.

She pulled away and bent to retrieve his crutch. “You’re hurt. What happened?”

“It’s a long, sad tale, which I’ll save for later.”

“But why did you not send word you were coming?”

His eyebrows rose. “Did you not receive my telegrams?”

She shook her head.

“None of them?”

“No.”

He wiped her tears away with his thumb. “Ah, darlin’, I’m sorry to cause you such worry. I don’t know what could have happened.”

Suspicion dawned, and she glanced over her shoulder to where her parents stood watching. “Papa, did you intercept telegrams intended for me?”

The color heightened in his cheeks, but he said nothing.

She stalked across the grass to confront him. “You knew how worried I was. How I longed for word of Gabe to be certain he was alive, yet you kept that knowledge from me. How could you do that?” Her hands shook with a combination of shock and anger.

“I only had your best interest in mind. I truly believed the man would never return. . . .” Her father waved a hand in the air as if that was explanation enough.

Gabe appeared beside her. “You couldn’t be more wrong, sir. I would have moved heaven and earth to come back to her.” Gabe turned and took her hands. “Nothing except my death would have stopped me.”

“Oh, Gabe.” The intensity of the love in his gaze turned Aurora’s insides to warm pudding.

“I hope it’s not too soon to make my intentions known,” Gabe said, his eyes still on her, “but I’m asking for Aurora’s hand in marriage. If she’ll have me.”

More tears bloomed, and she didn’t wait for her father’s reply. “Yes, I’ll have you.”

“The saints be praised.” Gabe grinned down at her. “There’s only one more thing I need.” He cupped her face with both hands and very deliberately kissed her.

Eagerly, Aurora drank in the familiar scent of his aftershave and the warmth of his lips, relishing the shelter of his arms surrounding her. How many weeks had she longed for this moment?

Moments later, they drew apart.

Gabe smiled and held out his arm. “May I escort you inside?”

She laughed out loud. “I’d be delighted.”

Together, they entered the church, his crutch making their progress slow but steady. The joyous strains of piano music accompanied them as they moved up the aisle. Never had Aurora felt such happiness in her life.

Smiling through tears of joy, she lifted blissful prayers of gratitude to a most gracious and loving God.

Thank You, thank You, for bringing Gabe back to me!

On a wave of near euphoria, Maggie drifted through the crowded parlor filled with wedding guests. Brianna and Gil’s reception was being held at Irish Meadows, as per the bride’s wishes. Mr. O’Leary had spared no expense, ordering dozens of roses to grace the interior of the house, as well as the balcony outside. Maggie inhaled the delicious floral fragrance and sighed with delight.

Today had been the happiest of days for the O’Leary family, one they richly deserved after all they’d been through. Thankfully Mrs. O’Leary had recovered enough to participate in the activities, although she still tired easily. Deirdre and Connor had also regained their health, due in part to the resilience of their youth.

With the festivities fully underway and Adam busy with his duties as best man, Maggie exited onto the balcony, intent on finding Gabe. Another burst of gratitude radiated through her at the surprise she’d found upon waking. Though injured from an accident at sea, her dear brother had returned, arriving in the middle of the night. She’d hardly dared believe it when she’d spied Gabe in Colleen’s kitchen that morning. But with the flurry of preparations for the wedding, they’d had no chance to speak. Besides which, Gabe’s sole intent had been getting to Aurora. Now that the couple had spent a few hours together, Maggie needed to find out about her family and how the war was affecting them.

She stood for a moment at the balcony rail, looking out over the colorful array of guests on the lawn below, and simply drank in the glorious scene. The breeze teased Maggie’s hair and gown, calling to mind when she’d stood at another railing. Was it only a few short months ago that she’d looked upon the Statue of Liberty for the first time as their ship made its way into the New York Harbor? The excitement and trepidation she’d experienced then could not compare to the joy and peace that flowed through her soul today. She lifted a prayer of immense gratitude to God for bringing her across the ocean to her new home and for granting her the freedom to find the love of her life. Both she and Gabe had been truly blessed to find their hearts’ desire in America.

Thoughts of her brother brought her back to her initial purpose for coming outside. Gabe and Aurora had gone for a walk in the garden some time ago. Surely they’d returned by now. Maggie scanned the sea of people below her and, not spying the couple, headed down to the garden. She soon found the lovebirds on a bench near the water fountain and waited until a fairly passionate kiss ended before she made her presence known. “Hello, you two.”

Aurora blushed. “Maggie, it’s lovely to see you again.”

“And you, as well. I hope you don’t mind the intrusion, but I haven’t had a chance to talk to my brother.”

Gabe rose and gestured for her to sit down. “I’m afraid I was somewhat preoccupied when I arrived.” He winked at Aurora, who blushed again.

Maggie took his spot on the bench. “So tell me everything.”

Gabe crossed his arms, his eyes darkening. He glanced from Aurora to Maggie. “I still don’t know exactly what happened, but our ship went down. There were rumors of a torpedo attack. In any case, I woke up in the hospital with a concussion and a broken leg. I got off easy compared to some.”

The distress on Aurora’s face mirrored Maggie’s feelings. “Why didn’t you let us know?”

“I didn’t want to worry everyone. After I got out of the hospital, I stayed at Tommy’s so Mum and the girls could fuss over me. She sends her love, by the way.”

“What about the war?”

“So far, Tommy and Paddy haven’t enlisted, and they won’t unless they’re given no choice.” He scowled, and Maggie knew better than to get him started on his views of the British army.

“The rest of the clan is fine, but everyone misses you terribly.”

A twinge of sadness pinched Maggie’s heart. “I miss them, too.”

Gabe plucked a flower from the bush beside him and twirled it between his fingers, a pensive expression on his face. “I had a lot of time to think while I was recuperating, and I knew what I had to do once I got well enough.” He handed Aurora the bloom with a smile. “I had to keep my promise to this lovely lady. As soon as I could, I got on the next ship.”

A tear slid down Aurora’s cheek as she raised the flower to her nose.

Maggie tried to imagine how hard it had been for her mother to let Gabe go. “How did Mum take the news that we’re staying in America?”

Gabe tweaked one of her curls. “You can stop worrying. Mum suspected all along you were destined to stay.”

Foolish tears clogged Maggie’s throat. “Did she seem upset?”

“A little, now that three of us are here. But she understands.”

Maggie pulled a handkerchief from her reticule. “Tomorrow I’ll write her a long letter.”

“That’s a grand idea. Now if you don’t mind, sister dear, I’d like at least one dance with my fiancée, if she doesn’t mind my limp.”

“I’d love to.” Beaming, Aurora rose and took his hand.

With a quick wave, they set off toward the house.

Maggie sat for a few seconds longer, allowing her emotions to settle. Today was not a day for sadness or regret.

“Are those tears I see?”

Maggie looked up to see Adam, and once again her heart stuttered at the handsome figure he cut in his tuxedo. She’d never seen him dressed in such finery. For the first time since she’d met him, he looked like the heir to the O’Leary estate.

He came to sit beside her on the stone bench and laid a hand over hers. “What is it, sweetheart?”

The tenderness in his question made her throat tighten. She wouldn’t mar his happiness with any talk of homesickness. She smiled at him. “It’s nothing. Weddings always make me sentimental.”

He peered at her, then tipped up her chin for a light kiss. “We’d best get inside. I believe the best man has a speech to make.”

She wound her fingers through his. “Did I tell you how proud I am?”

“Once or twice.” He winked at her, warming her heart. Then he sobered. “I’ll never understand why you had such faith in me, despite everyone’s warnings.”

Love shimmered inside her like a beautiful dream. “I believe God brought us together—to help each other through some difficult times, and to love each other.”

“And I promise to spend the rest of my days doing just that.” He pulled her tight to his chest and kissed her again.

Her soul sighed with pleasure, her earlier euphoria returning to erase any lingering sadness. She would always miss her mother, but she wouldn’t trade her happiness with Adam for anything.

The patter of feet on the garden path, along with a high-pitched giggle, had Maggie and Adam pulling apart.

Delia stood beside them, her white-and-pink dress swishing about her legs. “Uncle Adam, Aunt Maggie, Daddy sent me to find you.” Her blond curls bobbed around her flushed cheeks.

Maggie smiled, another wave of gratitude arising for Delia’s restored health. “We’re coming now, sweetie.”

“Good, ’cause Daddy didn’t want you to miss the ’nouncement.”

“What announcement?”

Delia covered her mouth with a tiny gloved hand. “It’s a secret. You have to come now.”

She grabbed Adam’s hand and tugged. He grinned over his shoulder at Maggie, who tried not to laugh.

They followed the noise of the crowd into the dining room, where the bride and groom stood poised to cut the wedding cake. Brianna looked resplendent in her ivory lace gown.

After they shared the first bite, Gil turned to address the guests. “Brianna and I wish to thank everyone for sharing this special day with us. I’m very proud of my wife for graduating from Barnard College earlier this summer. But I must say, I am looking forward to our honeymoon and having her all to myself.”

Maggie joined the laughter that rippled through the crowd.

“Before the toasts begin, I’ve been told that Rylan wishes to say a few words.”

Rylan came forward with Colleen, Delia, and the baby. “It’s grand to be here for this wonderful occasion.” He smiled out over the room, then gazed at his wife. The intimate look they shared made Maggie tingle down to her toes. “We hope Brianna and Gil don’t mind us stealing their thunder with good news of our own. In addition to our beautiful daughter, Delia, Colleen and I are adopting this lovely girl—Ivy Kathleen Beatrice Montgomery.”

When the crowd stopped clapping, Rylan grinned again. “I must say God has a most interesting sense of humor. Not to mention incredible timing.” He gave a low chuckle. “We’ve just learned we’re expecting a baby of our own next spring.”

More applause erupted, and Maggie squeezed Adam’s hand, her heart overflowing. “God is so good to us, Adam.”

He dropped a kiss on her head. “That He is, my love. Now, excuse me, I need to say a few words myself.”

Adam pushed back a rush of nerves as he picked up a glass of champagne from the table. “As best man, it is my duty to toast the bride and groom. Before I get to that, I hope you’ll indulge me for a moment.” His hand trembled slightly while he paused to collect his thoughts. “Most of you know about the recent time I spent in prison. While there, I met a good Christian man who helped me face a few harsh truths about myself and who urged me to reconcile with my family.” Adam swallowed hard, picturing John’s face. “With his guidance, I have learned to appreciate the true importance of family.” Adam looked to the place where he’d seen his parents standing. To Adam’s astonishment, his father had pushed through the crowd and now came forward to wrap Adam in a tight hug. The unexpected action caused a host of emotions to riot through Adam’s system. He clamped his jaw tight so as not to break down in front of everyone.

His father faced the guests. “As most of you know, we’ve been through some trying times of late. Almost losing my Kathleen has made me appreciate all that God has given us.” He glanced at Adam. “I’m very impressed with the way Adam has turned his life around . . . and I’m proud to call him . . . my son.”

He shook Adam’s hand, and they embraced once more. Adam glanced over at his mother, smiling through her tears of happiness. He didn’t dare look at Maggie or he might lose his last thread of control. Instead, he raised his glass. “To Gil and Brianna, may your love endure forever, and may God bless your marriage with great joy and many children.”

“Amen.” The guests applauded and lifted their own glasses.

Adam added a silent prayer of thanks for the second chance he’d been given with his father. For the first time in his life, Adam felt he truly belonged.

Some time later, when the party began to wind down, Adam sought Maggie in the crowd and pulled her off to an alcove for a little privacy. He’d been waiting for the right moment to give her his surprise.

She nestled into his arms with a contented sigh. “Brianna loved her cedar chest. Will you make me one as a wedding present?”

He gazed down at her, wanting to promise her the world. “I’ll do better than that. I’ll build furniture for our whole house.”

“Just where do you plan to find space for more furniture?”

He chuckled at her incredulous expression. “You don’t imagine I’d let you live in that tiny room over the shop, do you?”

She regarded him with a serious stare. “I’d live anywhere with you, my love. As long as we’re together.”

He caressed her cheek. “I love you more than the air I breathe, Maggie, and I hope one day to be worthy of your heart.”

She smiled tenderly. “You don’t have to earn my heart . . . or my love. They’re yours—now and forever.”

Adam’s heart soared with a magnitude of love and tenderness he never dreamed possible. “I have something for you.” He reached into his jacket and pulled out an envelope. “An early wedding gift.”

Fascinating creases wrinkled her nose. “But our wedding’s not for months.”

He only smiled. “Open it.”

His pulse rate sprinted as she pulled up the flap and removed the contents. The paper shook in her hand. “Tickets to Ireland?”

He grinned. “I thought we might honeymoon in Cork, and you could show me your hometown.”

“Oh, Adam. This is the most wonderful gift ever.” Moisture shimmered in her eyes. “But how can you afford this?”

“Because of the war, steamer tickets are not much in demand at the moment, and I got a good price.”

She opened her mouth as if to object, but he held up a finger.

“One more thing.” He made sure he had her full attention. He’d seen Maggie’s sadness when she’d thought he wasn’t aware and knew she missed her mother terribly. “If your mother is willing, I thought we could bring her back here . . . to live with us.”

With a strangled cry, Maggie threw her arms around him.

He held her as she wept on his shoulder, satisfaction warming his insides. Happy tears he could handle. “Of course, our trip will depend on the war. After what Gabe went through, we may have to wait.” He pulled back to look at her. “In the meantime, how would you feel about moving up our wedding date?”

Her beaming smile fairly knocked him over. “Will tomorrow do?”

Adam laughed at the light in her eyes and then bent to kiss her again. He gave thanks to God from the depths of his being for the precious gift of her love, for freeing him from the shackles of his past and bestowing on him the promise of a bright future ahead.

With Maggie by his side, he would continue to build the O’Leary legacy and create a most worthy heritage—one that would make his family and his God very proud indeed.