Dale hugged me back. “You’re my family too.”
Dale wasn't much of a talker, but I always understood what he was saying.
Isaac cleared his throat. “Guys. We probably should go in before y'all miss your appointment. Pretty sure that judge doesn't take kindly to people missing their appointments.”
“Right,” I said, releasing Dale from my bear hug grip.
“Thank you guys for being here. I know it means the world to us.” I smiled as I looked at each one.
“Now don't start cryin’. You'll ruin your makeup before even saying ‘I do.’” Layla was handing me a tissue to dab at the tear, which threatened to spill over. I had never been happier.
There was nothing lavish or exotic about the ceremony. In fact, it was done in less than twenty minutes, but I didn't care. I was officially Joleene Dawson, and those that meant the world to me were there.
“Pictures,” Layla trilled, handing me the small bouquet of purple roses she had gotten me.
“No, it's okay. We don't need pictures.” I knew Colin wasn't a big fan of being in pictures.
“Yes. Pictures. We need this and I know you'll want to show our kids.” Colin grabbed my hand, leading me outside to the steps. “I know the perfect spot for our very first picture as husband and wife.”
Layla, Dale, and Isaac followed, I'm sure snickering under their breath as Colin pulled me with so much enthusiasm. One would have thought he was a kid going to the amusement park. I’m not sure who was more excited. I just followed behind, smiling and laughing at his playful nature.
Outside the courthouse was a modest fountain. Colin led us all to that spot.
“Sit right here, my love, and Layla, will you take the picture?” He sat next to me, grasped my hands and gazed into my eyes. The world stood still. Then he reached over and gave me a soft kiss on my cheek, reminiscent of our first date.
“What a perfect picture!” Layla broke into my little world. I blushed as I remembered we were not alone.
“Okay. Picture of the ladies.” Colin beamed at me. Several shots later of me and Layla, and of the guys and even a few with Dale and me, I felt one was missing.
I ran over to another couple who were walking by. “Would you mind taking a couple pictures of all of us please?” I asked, pointing to everyone by the fountain.
“Sure,” they agreed and followed me over. They took several silly pictures and one special one.
“Thank you,” we said as the other couple gave me back my phone and went about their day.
“Well, that was fun, but I'm starvin’. I'm so hungry, I could eat the north end of a south-bound goat.” Dale was always so eloquent.
“Yeah, me too, dude. What's for food?” Isaac asked no one in particular.
“We ordered some pizza to be delivered to the bar. Let's go. They should be there soon.” Holding Colin's hand, we headed towards his Jeep.
“Isaac, do you mind hitchin’ a ride with Layla or Dale? Kinda would like to be alone with my bride.” Colin grinned at me.
“Sure. Figured I'd ride with someone. Layla, would you mind?”
“Sure. So we'll meet you two there,” she said, winking at Colin and I, “but don't take all night please.”
I just rolled my eyes and followed everyone to the parking lot. I gave Layla, Dale, and Isaac a hug before hopping into Colin’s Jeep.
The Screaming Eagle wasn't too far from the courthouse, so we decided to stop at our favorite park to just walk. As we walked, our fingers entwined, I couldn't help smiling.
“Why are you so happy, Mrs. Dawson?” he quipped with a twinkle in his eye, bringing my hand up to lightly kiss it.
“I love these walks. I love being here with you. I love being called ‘Mrs. Dawson’. I love you.”
He squeezed my hand and pulled me to him and held me in his arms. I could have stayed there forever.
We continued walking, talking about this and that. And before long, Colin simply stated, “I guess we best be going. Isaac will probably eat Dale out of all of the pretzels.” It was clear in his voice it was the last thing he wanted.
I knew how he felt because I felt the same, saying, “Yeah, we should get going, but we can always come back after food.” I was still smiling.
We turned back to the Jeep and made our way to The Screaming Eagle. “I just realized I'm quite hungry myself. Hope those pizzas are ready.” Colin grinned as he pulled into the parking lot.
He opened my door and grabbed hold of me for one final embrace without onlookers.
“I love you, Joleene Dawson.”
“I love you, Colin.”
And with that, we walked into a surprise. Layla and Dale had decorated the inside of the bar, set up a buffet, and had eighties music playing on the jukebox. There was even a banner.
Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Dawson
There were some purple roses and carnations and faces on the tables and green balloons floating around.
“What is all this?” The tears came without warning at the amazing gesture our friends had prepared.
“We couldn't let you guys not have a reception. So we put one together. I know it's not much, but y'all didn't give us much planning time.” Layla and Dale winked.
The bar was still open for regular business, so the few patrons clapped and raised their glasses. Some shouted congrats. Colin walked over to Dale to shake his hand and Dale gave him the ‘man hug’, clapping him on the back.
Layla came over and hugged me tightly through muffled thank you’s which resulted in laughing with tears streaming down our faces.
Behind her, though, I don’t think Colin and Dale realized I
