Page 75 of Mail-Order Bride Runaway

“Not in the least.” The family had been so welcoming, but it was nice to have their wedding celebrated.

They stood beside Alfred and Iris, before the beautiful cake Della’s mother had made. Tears pressed to the back of Della’s eyes, but she wouldn’t let them escape. Nothing would be allowed to dampen the joy of this day.

“To both of these couples,” Riley said, his voice rich with emotion. “We wish you every happiness. May God keep and guide you for the rest of your lives. May God bless this marriage and may your love for each other continue to grow. May you continually rejoice in your love for each other and as you face challenges in the future, may your love for the eternal God grow in abundance.”

Tears multiplied in Della’s eyes, but she blinked them back.

“Thank you,” the others murmured.

Della’s throat was too tight to allow speech. Little did Riley know that he has spoken many of the words that her own father gave as a blessing for those he married.

The party that followed went on for hours, full of joy and laughter. Kit and Lindy fell asleep on one of the beds as the adults continued to enjoy their time together. All too soon there would be a hole in their lives when the new Mr. and Mrs. Black left.

The next morning, Alfred and Iris climbed into the wagon, their belongings in a trunk in the back. Wally would drive them to the train station. They were headed west. Both admitted they had always wanted to see the Pacific Ocean.

The rest gathered around them to say their final goodbyes and waved until the wagon was out of sight.

Andy drew Della to their house. Ma had stayed outside to visit with Gwen, so they were alone. He pulled her into his arms and held her tight.

“I thank God every day that you hid in my wagon.”

A smile warming her heart and words, she said, “I thank God every day that you felt compelled to marry me to protect me from Mr. Hartman.”

Andy slipped her a handful of butterscotch candy. Something he did on a regular basis. He then tipped her face upward. “A choice I’ll never regret. Della Shannon, have I told you how much I love you?”

She drew her finger along his jaw. “You can always tell me again. I don’t mind hearing it.”

“I love you from now until forever.” The hoarseness of his voice sent a ripple of joy up her veins.

“I love you every bit as much.” The words were caught by his sweet, claiming kiss.

Her heart filled with love and praise until she wondered if she’d be able to breathe.