by Pat Simmons
Epilogue
Tabitha had hoped for more time to plan her wedding, but time wasn’t on her side when it came to Aunt Tweet’s mental health. Instead of outdoor fall nuptials, she and Marcus had agreed to tie the knot in a candlelight ceremony in early spring.
While waiting in the small, makeshift bridal changing room at her church, Tabitha glanced at her two bridesmaids. Her sisters were elegant and beautiful. Priscilla “Aunt Tweet” Brownlee would be her escort. The moment was somber without her parents’ presence. She sniffed so as not to compromise Rachel’s makeup artistry with tears. Before the hour was over, she would become Mrs. Marcus Whittington.
“I’m really happy Marcus came into your life. He’s a good man,” Kym whispered, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “Mom and Daddy would be proud.” Her big sister’s hug lingered.
“Thanks,” Tabitha whispered.
“Whew.” Rachel dabbed at her happy tears, then fanned her face. “I’m trying to hold it together, but I’m glad you found unexpected happiness in the midst of being a caregiver.” She hiccupped. Rachel seemed to be in a constant emotional frenzy. Her sister had confessed she felt overwhelmed daily.
When music from the string quartet floated to their room, the sisters readied themselves to leave, but suddenly, Aunt Tweet stated, “You need to pray.”
The sisters stared at their matriarch and caught a glimpse of the woman who gave them direction on things in so many ways.
“Right.” How had Tabitha forgotten the most important moment before she said “I do”? Taking one another’s hands, they moved toward Aunt Tweet to include her in their circle for prayer.
“Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for this occasion and the man You had for my sister,” Kym began, squeezing Tabitha’s hand. “Please bless their marriage, my nieces and nephews to come, and…please don’t forget about the other two Knicely sisters. We need good men too…”
Once they said “amen” in unison, Tabitha smiled, hugged them one more time, then shooed her sisters out of the room. Turning back to Aunt Tweet, she studied her aunt. Her weight loss was noticeable, but she was still classy in her silk gold suit, stunning hat, and matching gloves. Tabitha kissed her cheek and whispered, “Thank you for everything you’ve done for me all these years, especially imparting your wisdom. I love you.”
“Umm-hmm.” Her aunt nodded, then became antsy. “Randolph’s waiting.”
The mysteries of Miss Priscilla Brownlee would never cease. “Yes,” she responded, knowing she had her own handsome and godly Randolph standing at the altar.
Tabitha and Aunt Tweet made their way out of the changing room. When the ushers saw them, they opened the double doors to the chapel. Tabitha took baby steps to keep her aunt steady.
She could feel the tug of Marcus’s gaze on her before their eyes connected. When they did, his raw happiness caused her to suck in her breath. With each step, Tabitha’s heart pounded. Her life was about to change again, and this time, she looked forward to the new chapter.
Soon, Marcus left his post and met them halfway.
“Thank you, Aunt Tweet,” he whispered and kissed her cheek.
Her aunt nodded, then allowed Marcus’s mother to guide her to the front pew.
“Ready to become my wife?” He gave Tabitha a tender expression.
“More than ready.” In sync, they finished the journey to the altar together.
Pastor Nelson nodded. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today in the sight of God and these witnesses…” he began.
“Tabitha Knicely, will you take Marcus Whittington to be your lawfully wedded husband, forsaking all others until death do you part?”
The moment was surreal as Tabitha stared into Marcus’s eyes, then blinked when she heard a small voice reciting the vows along with the pastor. It was Aunt Tweet. Even that distraction didn’t stop Tabitha from saying “I do” in a strong voice. When it was Marcus’s turn, he cupped her hands, resting them against his chest where she could feel the beat of his heart. It seemed as if her own heart felt it and synced with his. Tabitha trembled as the strength of his voice made her weak. She remained in that state until Pastor Nelson said, “Marcus Whittington, you may now salute your bride.”
With a smirk that made his nostrils flare, Marcus gathered Tabitha in his arms and delivered a passionate kiss.
“Now that’s a whopper!” Aunt Tweet declared loudly.
Author’s Note
Many of Aunt Tweet’s antics mimic my grandmother Grandma Jessie’s, who suffered from advanced symptoms of dementia. The ice cream on the face while the dog went missing was one of Grandma’s escapades. As I think back on those days, it makes me chuckle now. Not back then.
Being a caregiver is probably one of the most misunderstood positions. There is joy, sorrow, depression, frustration, pity parties, and more.
If you know someone who is a caregiver, drop them a card, send them flowers, give them a gift card for maid service or a day out… The ways you can bless a caregiver are endless.
For more information about dementia and Alzheimer’s, visit alz.org.
Rachel’s story is next. Every caregiver’s situation is different, and this Knicely sister is about to find that out.
Please take a moment to post a review and purchase a copy of Lean on Me for a friend.
Until next time, hug a caregiver and be blessed!
Pat
Reading Group Guide
1. Do you think the sisters’ caregivers’ pact was realistic? Have you ever shared caregiving with others? How did it go? If you haven’t had that experience, would you ever take it on?
2. What did you think about Marcus’s interactions with Aunt Tweet?
3. Aunt Tweet is now in the care of Rachel. What do you think is in store for her as the next caregiver? How did Tabitha do as a caregiver?
4. Do you think a single person should place a loved one in a nursing facility when there is no other help? What would you do?
5. How much do you know about dementia and the many diseases that share some of its symptoms?
6. How much do you know about the Alzheimer’s Association?
7. Discuss how being a caregiver affects families living in and outside the house.
8. What is your definition of a caregiver? Does it have to be limited to the care of an elderly or physically challenged individual?
9. What did you think about Marcus’s relationship with Victor and Latrice? Would you have become involved in their problems?
About the Author
Pat Simmons is a multipublished author of more than thirty-five Christian titles and is a three-time recipient of the Emma Rodgers Award for Best Inspirational Romance. She has been a featured speaker and workshop presenter at various venues across the country.
As a self-proclaimed genealogy sleuth, Pat is passionate about researching her ancestors and then casting them in starring roles in her novels. She describes the evidence of the gift of the Holy Ghost as an amazing, unforgettable, life-altering experience. It is God who advances the stories she writes.
Pat has a BS in mass communications from Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts, and oversaw the media publicity for the annual RT Booklovers Conventions for fourteen years.
Pat converted her sofa-strapped, sports-fanatic husband into an amateur travel agent, untrained bodyguard, GPS-guided chauffeur, and administrative assistant who is constantly on probation. They have a son and a daughter.
Read more about Pat and her books by visiting patsimmons.net or on social media.
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