One to Save (One to Hold 6)

The hotel ballroom sparkles with white twinkle lights and dim lamps. At each table are bottles of champagne and small containers of bubbles. I haven’t stopped dancing with Derek since we arrived.

“We should probably eat something.” His low voice in my ear is a warm massage to my insides.

“I don’t want to be out of your arms,” I say, resting my temple against his cheek. I feel him smile.

“You never have to worry about that.”

Glancing up, I kiss his lips briefly before letting him lead me off the dance floor to where our friends sit at a round table covered in white linens. Close by is the wedding cake, and Aunt Bea outdid herself making a four-layer round cake covered in white fondant. Each layer has a navy bow around its base, and the Marines emblem decorates them all the way to the cake topper—a Marine in dress whites holding a bride in his arms. I smile and rest my cheek against Derek’s shoulder.

“Getting tired?” Elaine says to me, from where she’s sitting on Patrick’s lap.

I shake my head no just as Sylvia joins our group. “Derek,” she steps around and gives him a brief squeeze. “The wedding was lovely, but I’m afraid it’s late for me. Has anyone seen Amy?”

“We reserved a block of rooms if you’d like to spend the night here,” he says, holding her hand.

“We have one at this lovely B&B in town,” she says with a smile. “We already unpacked, or I’d stay. Now if I can just find my child.”

“Hey, Mom,” Stuart rounds the table to where Sylvia is standing. Mariska is right behind him, holding his hand. “Since most everyone is here, we figured it’s time to announce it.”

“Announce what?” Kenny perks up, her dark brows clutched.

My eyes widen in anticipation. I had a feeling this was coming.

“Mariska has agreed to marry me.”

“What!” Her friend is out of her seat and going to them fast. “When did this happen?”

Mariska beams as Kenny takes her hand. “I actually agreed about a month ago, but then he changed his mind.”

Kenny’s face snaps up, but Stuart grabs Mariska around the waist, pulling her to him and kissing her neck before nipping her ear.

She squeals a laugh. “I was teasing!”

“Mom had to bring me the ring,” he corrects her. “It was our grandmother’s.”

“Oh! Let me see.” We all crowd around to examine the delicate white-gold engagement ring. It’s in the shape of a flower lying on its side with a large round diamond in the center.

“It’s beautiful,” I say with a smile, looking up at Stuart.

“I wanted it to be bigger—”

“That would’ve ruined the design!” Mariska argues.

“It’s perfect for you,” Elaine says, giving her a hug. “And now we’ll be sisters.”

“Speaking of sisters,” Sylvia interjects. “If you see your other one, tell her I’m looking for her. Congratulations,” She stretches up and kisses Stuart’s cheek. Then she puts an arm around Mariska’s shoulders. “Best wishes, although you don’t need it. You are one impressive young lady.”

“Thank you,” Mariska laughs.

Stuart gives her another squeeze before answering Sylvia. “I spoke to Amy at the bar a few minutes ago. I’ll try and find her if you want.”

“Oh, I can wait a little longer,” his mother pats his arm. “I’m glad to see my children so happy.”

Derek’s arms are around me again, and I can’t help agreeing with her. So much has happened to get us here. Breakups, secrets, heartbreaking discoveries that turned into blessings or paths to forgiveness, and now the most resistant member of the group has found a home.

“This day couldn’t get any better,” I sigh, leaning my head back against his shoulder.

His lips touch the side of my neck, sending tingles through my stomach. “It’s only the beginning.”