The New Northwest weekly newspaper became a must-have for most local residents. Tariana had proven her worth writing columns, and Miss Freedman printed almost every piece she handed in for approval. The woman-in-the-know claimed that Tariana had a soft touch with words and a tone that stirred emotions in people. She could proclaim justice for women in such a way that got people thinking and not reacting. The spinster assured Tariana this was a rare gift.
As a wife, Tariana would write her articles at home while doing chores. In her spare time, she scoured the streets, looking for inspirational news to report. Three days a week, she’d go into the office to help set up the press and do the final proofreading. Tariana was thrilled to continue working in the industry. She loved the written word and appreciated the value the paper served within their growing community.
Tariana sat erect in her chair while Frances fussed with her hair. Sprigs of baby’s breath weaved throughout the strawberry blonde curls on top while tresses cascaded down her back. Jamie liked Tariana’s hair down. Her eyes shone bright with excitement. It was a big step, but one she was ready to leap any obstacle to attain. When she slipped into the simple yet, elegant gown, her heart quickened. “Is this really happening?” she whispered.
“It is,” Frances said, “and if you are only half as happy as Michael and I, you’ll know God’s choice is always the best.”
“Oh, Frances. There never was a choice of suiters for me…well, besides my obsession with Michael.” She giggled, recalling how immature she’d been just one short year ago. “It’s always been Jamie. He loves me for who I am. There is no need to play games with him, and we wouldn’t have ‘us’ any other way.”
“Just remember that your man may have dreams, too,” Frances said. “Marriage is a give and take relationship, from the day you marry until the day you die.”
“I’d give Jamie anything he wants or needs. He asks for so little. The man deserves my respect and support. After all his exploration into learning other skills, he is back at his father’s shop, The Sackerton Smithy and loving it. The business has expanded into creating all kinds of decorative items, not just servicing the practical needs of the community. I had no idea there are so many useful and frivolous things one can create with metal, and a bit of imagination. They can hardly keep up with the orders.”
“That is good news. And what of the honeymoon?”
Tariana laughed. “We are going against tradition, with a weekend ride in a small cruiser a friend of his owns, and then back to our property to finish up the house.”
“Working on your honeymoon? It’s unthinkable,” Frances practically shrieked.
“Being together is all that matters. Doing the construction of our home has only bonded us deeper. Think of the tales we will tell our children.”
“I suppose I’m not surprised. You never follow the conventional route. It’s a quality I’ve grown to love over this past year.”
“Good, because I would hate to disappoint my matron of honor.” Tariana wiggled impatiently in her seat. “Can we leave for the church soon? I might burst with joy before I get to say my vows.”
Mother stood at the door. “I was just coming to get you. The congregation has arrived and are waiting with bated breath for the bride to appear.” She came and kissed Tariana on her cheek. “I have not told you enough how proud I am of you, daughter. I pray God will bless this union, and that you will leave a wonderful legacy for other daring women to follow.”
“Thank you, Mother. It means so much to me to make an impact on the world around me – for God and for women.”
“And you shall,” Ada said. “But today, you have an impatient groom standing at the altar, waiting for you to complete his life, as well.”
The three women linked arms and headed downstairs and crossed the threshold of Tariana’s childhood home, before walking the short distance to the church.
Ada Gracin was the first up the aisle. She took her place in the front pew with Cherise, Samantha and Evelyn.
The music started. Frances strolled casually toward the front of the church and stood opposite the groom at the altar. Tariana saw her wink at Michael, who stood beside Jamie, and her heart soared. They were so happy – and to think, she’d almost ruined it. Thank God, he’d forgiven her, along with Jamie, and her family.
The Wedding March began when she walked from the vestibule into the sanctuary. Tariana’s focus never deviated from Jamie. There would be time for well-wishers later, but for now, Jamie was all that mattered. All of the fuss with her morning grooming paid off, for she could see his eyes dance with pleasure at the sight of his bride. Tariana grinned – she could almost hear his heart laughing.
Yes, they would have a good life together. God’s plan had proven best, and in the future, she’d never overstep His guidance…at least, not on purpose. Funny the things one thinks on that long walk down the aisle, but what consumed her most at this moment was the happily-ever-after marriage that she and Jamie would begin after the blessed wedding ceremony.
The End
Yours Truly: The Lovelorn Series
YOUR'S TRULY: THE LOVELORN, a multi-author sweet historical romance series, puts an old-fashioned spin on the modern-day “Dear Abby”-style newspaper articles.
