Epilogue

A year later, two hundred family members and close friends gathered at the historic Exaner church to witness Regine’s marriage to Mason Spaulding. Although supposedly a private wedding, photographers camped outside, hoping to catch a glimpse of the bride and groom. Mason had restraining orders issued to keep the interlopers five hundred feet away from the church and the festivities.

It was a bright and sunny day, so much so that it was hard to imagine that it was the last day of summer. The organ silenced the guests as Regine appeared at the entrance of the church. She smiled at Brad. Carina’s husband had graciously offered to escort her down the aisle. She placed her hand on his arm and took her first step up the long aisle, the long train of her wedding gown falling in line behind her.

In such a short time, her life had changed. She looked at the many familiar faces and new friends she’d met through Mason and his family. Her gaze took it all in, finally settling on Farin smiling at her from the front of the church.

Her gaze locked with Mason’s and everything ceased around her. She smiled at him, her heart overflowing with love and joy. He looked nervous, serious, and yet happy. Luke stood beside him, proud to be his best man. During the past year, they had finally found their way back to each other. Although the bond they’d had before would never be again, they had created a new friendship based on honesty and understanding.

The white and red roses in the bouquet she held in front of her camouflaged the slight swell of her stomach. Within seven months, she would present Mason with their first child. During one heated moment in Paris, they had forgotten birth control. But Mason was more excited about becoming a father than she could have possibly thought. He rubbed oil on her stomach every night and massaged her feet even though she told him her feet were fine. He was so careful in their lovemaking that she had to be forceful and make him lose control. Telling him that he couldn’t hurt her or the baby was like talking to a brick wall.

As she approached the altar, he caressed her with his gray eyes, watching her so intently she might as well have been the only person in the church.

When she reached him, his gaze softened as he reached for her hand and interlaced his fingers with hers.

He leaned close to her ear. “I love you,” he whispered and lightly kissed her lips.

The minister cleared his throat and frowned at Mason for sidestepping tradition.

Mason winked at him and wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her close to his side. A ripple of laughter ran through the congregation.

Then the minister smiled and began the ceremony.