He was anxious to see Paris, and clearly Mick was, too. She’d spent the night at her dad’s because of tradition, despite them already being married.
Paris’s friends that she’d chosen to be her attendants started the processional down the aisle.
First came, Amber, who was the only one of the three women not pregnant.
Megan was next, whose every step was being watched by her two anxious husbands, Scott and Eric.
Belle, Paris’s matron of honor, smiled and joined them on the stage.
Last came Kimmie, Jena’s daughter, and Jake, Belle’s son, acting as flower girl and bearer of the rings.
When Wolfe Mayhem started playing “Here Comes the Bride,” the crowd came to their feet and turned their attention to the back.
He couldn’t stop smiling when he saw Paris come out of a tent with her father. She looked like an angel in the gorgeous white gown. A veil covered her face. His heart swelled in his chest with every step she took closer to him and Mick. He couldn’t take his eyes off of her. She’s mine. Mine and Mick’s.
Dr. Cottrell gave her hands to him and Mick.
As Ethel repeated the words she’d said in her office the day they’d legally been married, Dustin squeezed Paris’s hands. Yes, they were already married according to the laws of Colorado. But this wedding, the event all their friends and neighbors had so lovingly thrown for them, sealed it completely in the eyes of Destiny.
Ethel smiled at the close of the vows. “I now pronounce you married again. Gentlemen, you may kiss your bride.”
He swept Paris into his arms and kissed her soft, sweet lips. Mick did the same.
The crowd cheered.
He heard Megan groan.
Eric and Scott ran to the stage.
Megan shrugged. “My water just broke.”
Dr. Cottrell jumped up. “I can handle this. You need to go enjoy your wedding night.
Paris shook her head. “Dad, I’m a doctor. So is Dustin. You know how Destiny is. Everyone will want to be present for the baby’s birth.”
“She’s right, Doc,” Mick said. “It’s the Destiny way.”
Dr. Cottrell smiled. “I guess it is.”
“Absolutely. This actually makes this day even better.” Dustin turned to the crowd. “We’re moving this party to the clinic. Our newest citizen is on her way.”
Everyone jumped up and applauded.
* * * *
Paris took the baby from Katy, who had cleaned, weighed, and measured the precious bundle. “Seven pounds, ten ounces, and
twenty inches long.”
Eric’s eyes were wide with joy. “That’s our girl.”
“She’s perfect,” Scott said.
Gretchen wiped her eyes. “So beautiful.”
“Give her to me, please.” Megan held out her hands.
Paris passed the baby over to her mother.