He leaps into her waiting arms and their three hearts become one.
“Bloody Hell!” Alex growls and looks over at Seth’s grinning face. He beats on the roof of the carriage and orders the driver to return to the house.
“I was beginning to wonder about you.” Seth laughs as the carriage turns around and pulls back down the road.
“That monster has taken enough from us. Besides, I mean to make sure Victor makes an honest woman of my sister.”
Seth leans out the window just as the carriage pulls to a stop. “Looks like we are just in time.”
Victor is kissing Summer, oblivious to everything around them while Jonah bounces around them.
“That will be enough of that, Mr. Denning,” Alex growls leaping from the carriage.
“Alex!” Summer’s blush covers her cheeks.
Victor refuses to release his hold on Summer but instead tucks her into his side. “Alex. I thought you were leaving?”
“I can see that.” Alex snaps glaring at the arm around Summer’s waist.
“Alex! You misunderstand the situation.” Summer smiles up at Victor and the love shining in her eyes can’t be missed.
“I've asked your sister to become my wife. I would like your blessing Alex.” For the first time, Victor looks nervous. He steps forward and waits.
Alex hesitates and looks at Summer, “Damn man. Put him out of his misery already!” Seth orders.
“If you are sure Summer…”
“I am,” she shouts stepping to Victor and takes his arm. “I mean to say, I would be honored to be his wife. Jonah is a bonus. Besides, he couldn’t ask for two better Uncles.”
“True enough.” Alex grins, “I guess I can leave my shotgun in the carriage then. When’s the wedding?”
“Tonight.” The couple replies in unison. Seth and Alex laugh at the look of relief on Victor's face, and the house explodes with activity. Alex and Seth go to town to order a special gift for the couple while Tarrah helps press Summer's dress, soft blue silk, and golden trimming. Outside the garden is being prepared and candles are set at different heights upon the brick walls flanking the gardens. A piano is moved to the corner nearest the French doors. Victor is determined to give Summer a wedding to remember.
“Danny, if you would be so kind as to go and find the minister. Give him this note.” Victor smiles and hands him a sealed envelope with cash for the church. The note thanks him for arriving on such short notice.
Tarrah curls Summer’s hair and pulls the sides up leaving long blonde curls trailing over her bare shoulders. “You look beautiful Miss Summer.”
“Thank you. Tarrah I know I haven’t known you long, but would you do me the honor of standing up for me?”
Tara is taken aback. “I would love to stand at your side. If you are sure?”
“Wonderful! I’m sure I have a dress that will fit you.” Summer hurries to her trunk and grins thinking of Alex and Seth. “I have a dark blue satin that will bring out the color of your eyes…” Summer pulls the dress out and turns to her new friend.
“It wouldn’t be proper! I am an employee…”
“Nonsense. It is my wedding day, and I would like you to wear it. Please. Don't tell anyone, but I’m terribly nervous and having you at my side will be a great help.”
“Molly will never believe this.” Tarrah stares at Summer and decides to help give her the best wedding possible.
“Yes, she will.” Summer goes to the door and rings for the maid. “I need you to send a driver to pick up Miss Molly for the wedding. Where is she?” Summer asks, turning to Tarrah. She quickly gives directions and claps her hands excitedly.
“This is so exciting! Molly will think the fairies have blessed us.”
The girls spend the day laughing and preparing for the evening. Tarrah's hair is arranged in a similar style to Summer's, and Molly is dressed for the occasion. Jonah spends the day with the men.
Victor dresses in his best black suit and tails with a white shirt and black shoes. He ties his cravat and turns to look down at his son. “Jonah you look sharp. Are you excited?”
Jonah fiddles with his tie while watching his father tie his and tries to copy the movement. “I guess so. I’ve never been to a wedding before.”
“I'm sure you will have fun. Afterward, Tarrah has agreed to stay here with Molly to keep you company for a few days along with Alex and Seth.” He squats down to help with Jonah’s tie and grins.
“Today you get a new mother and two new uncles. How does that sound?”
“Uncles? I’ve never had one of those. Are they fun?” Jonah asks chewing his finger.
“Are they fun? Uncle are the best.” Victor takes his hand guiding him from his room and down the stairs into the great room.
Alex is waiting, dressed in a fitted black suit and tie, while Seth has decided to go with a more modern approach. He is dressed in a sharp, tan suit, vest and matching pants with a small blue cravat. They are drinking a glass of sherry and waiting for the wedding to start.
“My son was just asking me what Uncle’s do? He has never had the honor of meeting one.” Victor announces.
Alex is stunned into silence for a moment. Having lost so many family members, he just realizes that he will be gaining a nephew and brother in law. Seth watches and is aware of the emotion behind the moment for his best friend.
“Uncles are the best at teaching you how to fight, if the need should arise.” Seth jabs the air as
