Thanksgiving Day came to the farm, and there was so much to be grateful for. All of Nora’s cherished children and their friends and family were in attendance in the grand dining hall: Mark, Jane, Abby and Ben, Rachel, Jane’s mother and brothers, Phillips and his family, Manuel, and Mac had all come to the house to spend at least part of their day celebrating with the Hannons before moving on to other obligations.
Robert gave the opening toast. “To all of our friends and family for which Nora and I are ever thankful.” And then he turned the attention over to Mark.
Mark raised his glass, “This won’t surprise anyone, but as a lawyer, I believe in formalities. I’ve asked Jane O’Hara to marry me, and she has decided to save me from myself, by consenting to be my wife,” he laughed.
“And every other woman on the planet is now safe, too. Thank you, Jane,” Abby laughed.
Nora happily wept, and Robert, rarely given over to a show of emotions, pumped his son’s hand vigorously. And with great warmth, offered the toast, “To Jane,” he said, as he raised his glass and swept a finger lightly and quickly across his cheek, “Welcome, my dear, most welcome!”