Page 106 of Still Afraid

Josh lifted her chin and graced her lips with a kiss.

She slid her arms around his neck and relished the sweetness of his affection. This was her happy place, and she could stay here forever.

Someone cleared his throat.

Josh and Chloe both groaned as they stepped out of their embrace.

Aaron stood there, leaning heavily on his crutches. Chloe was grateful the judge had released Aaron to rehab, making it possible for him to attend the wedding.

Josh and Chloe strolled over to where Aaron stood in the doorway to the barn.

“I was sent over to tell you guys they’re ready for you.”

“They sent the guy on crutches?” She gently squeezed her brother’s arm.

“I volunteered. I wanted to talk to you both real quick.”

Josh draped his arm across Chloe’s shoulders. She leaned into him and waited for Aaron to share what was on his heart.

“I know you’ve already said you both forgive me, and I’m not trying to be annoying. But I have to say it again. I’m really sorry for the trouble I caused y’all. I hate that my action almost made today impossible.”

“But God is good, and here we are. And you’re getting the help you need.”

“Yeah, one of the nurses was saying I needed to work on forgiving myself.”

Chloe put her index finger on her brother’s chest. “Nope, you need to accept Jesus’s forgiveness—work that through your heart.”

Aaron took a deep breath. “That sounds better. He’s forgiven me.”

“Exactly.” She stepped away from Josh and embraced her baby brother. “I love you, kiddo.”

He chuckled. “I love you too. And I’m really happy for you guys. Now let’s get you in there for the reception. Everybody’s waiting. But give me a head start.”

Chloe squeezed his arm again, and Josh shook his hand before taking Chloe’s in his. They watched Aaron hobble away on his crutches.

“Ready?”

She smiled up at her husband. “Absolutely.”

Hand in hand, they strolled to the big white tent and waited for the DJ to announce them before going in.

“It’s my privilege to introduce you to Dr. and Mrs. Schneider.”

They walked in. Chloe felt like her cheeks were on fire. She never much liked being the center of attention, but she was beyond excited to be married to Josh she’d let it slide for now.

They stopped in front of their little table at the front and stood for a couple of photos.

Poirot ran in, trying to upstage them again.

She squatted and petted him. “Thanks, buddy. You know I hate this kind of thing. Keep up the good work.”

He licked her nose.

“That’s enough.”

After Josh welcomed everyone and Dad prayed for their meal, they all ate a delicious feast followed by the opening of the dance floor.

It would still be a while until the sun went down, but Chloe wanted to dance before cake. Josh led her to out for their first dance as husband and wife.