Page 55 of Love on the Coast
She plucked it from the tree, slid it into Cora’s hair, and then kissed her cheek.
“If we’re ready to start…”
The pastor directed them where to stand and read out his philosophy on marriage and reminded them both about how God was part of all things, and in that moment, Ed dared to believe. Believe that life could survive beyond death and that love could be true and kind, and most of all that family was a blessing, not a curse.
When the ceremony ended and he leaned in to kiss the bride, Ed embraced Cora with no shame. Giggles erupted, and Mr. Miller reprimanded him about public displays, so Ed released her, but not before he whispered, “I’ve changed my mind. I want children. Lots of them. I think we should start tonight.”
Cora blushed darker than her dress, but instead of scolding him, she kissed him again and again and again…and she didn’t stop for many years.
Their house filled with the pitter-patter of little feet, both from his children and his sister’s. And his business thrived, all thanks to the help of his wife, the woman who’d taught him how to truly love.
The End
