by Bonnie Leon
She moved past Celeste, who smiled warmly. As she approached the front, Ray moved toward her and took her hand. Jean was afraid to look at him, afraid of the trust and love she would see in his eyes. I do love him. I do, she told herself, staring at the minister.
“Dearly beloved,” the reverend began.
Jean's inner turmoil drowned out his words. I must decide. Now. I can't marry Ray if it's not right. She managed a glance over her shoulder.
Even if it means stopping the ceremony in front of all these people. She dared a glance at Ray. How could she even consider hurting him that way?
She was trapped. No matter what she did now, it would be wrong. If only Will were here. He'd know what to do. Jean was shocked at the thought. This was wrong. It was wrong. She needed to stop it.
She heard a door open and close softly. Turning to look, she saw Luke standing in the back. Their eyes locked, then he smiled and nodded.
“And do you, Jean Hasper, take this man to be your beloved husband?” the minister asked.
Jean looked up at Ray, searching his eyes. She knew what to do. “Yes. Yes, I do.”
