Then loudly and clearly the reverend said, “I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride.”
Patrick gently lifted her veil and bent his lips to hers and she melted into his embrace.
A roar of noise brought her back to reality as their friends clapped.
The reception didn’t last long and soon Helen was kissing Molly. “Sweetie, we’ll see you in a few days. I’ll miss you.”
“I’ll miss you, too, Mama.”
Electricity ran down Helen’s entire body. Molly had called her mama. She winked back tears and hugged Molly tightly. “I love you, Molly.”
Then she was swept past the crowd and into the carriage. She leaned her head on Patrick’s shoulder as they drove away.
Patrick slipped his arm around her. “I love you, Mrs. Flannigan.”
“Oh. I love that name. And I love you, Mr. Flannigan.” She looked up into his eyes. “Where are we going?”
“We’re almost there. Close your eyes.”
She laughed as joy came flooding up. “Oh, all right.” She shut her eyes tightly.
The carriage turned and a few minutes later, stopped.
“You can open your eyes now.”
Her lashes fluttered up and she looked at their house. But was it the same house? It was magnificent. She drew her breath in. “Oh, Patrick. It’s beautiful. I love our new home. The porch is wonderful.”
He hopped out and came around to lift her down. Instead of putting her on the ground he carried her up the porch steps and opened the door. Her heart thumped as he carried her over the threshold of their home.
When he set her on her feet, she swayed, and he caught her, drawing her closely to him. He pressed his lips to hers, gently at first, then deeper. “Welcome home, Helen.”
“Oh, Patrick, my darling. I was home the moment we were pronounced man and wife. But here, in this wonderful place, we can start our life together.”
And then his lips claimed hers again.
About the Author
Frances Devine grew up in the great state of Texas, where she wrote her first story at the age of nine. She moved to Southwest Missouri more than twenty years ago and fell in love with the hills, the fall colors, and Silver Dollar City. Frances has always loved to read, especially cozy mysteries, and considers herself blessed to have the opportunity to write in her favorite genre. She is the mother of seven adult children and has fourteen wonderful grandchildren.
Dedication
To my son, Jack, who hears and sees more than anyone could imagine.
I love you, Jack.
A note from the Author:
I love to hear from my readers! You may correspond with me by writing:
Frances Devine
Author Relations
PO Box 721
Uhrichsville, OH 44683
Scent of Magnolia Page 16
