“Grace, it’s really you, baby?”
Grace turned to see her mother, tears in her eyes, and her arms opened wide.
Grace thought her mom was the most amazing sight. She was five foot four, with light-auburn-colored hair. She was striking, and instantly Grace hugged her, overwhelmed with emotion.
“I’m home, Mama. I’m home.”
Grace’s brothers joined in the hugging and celebrating.
* * * *
Grace made her way toward the table where her mom and brothers were seated.
Donald Friedman came over to Grace next.
“You look wonderful, Grace. You’ve grown into a stunning woman. I’m so glad you decided to come back home. We’ve missed you.”
Grace smiled.
Donald looked at John who was pulling his sister toward him to hug her again. Grace squeezed her brother back. It w
as such a beautiful sight to witness.
Donald knew Grace’s family so well now. They had missed her something terrible and wanted her to be home with them.
Donald had become part of the family while investigating Clara’s death. The family welcomed him and continued to keep him part of their lives. He grew to love each of them like family as well.
He looked toward Sarah and the huge smile on her face as well as the tears of joy in her eyes. It made his heart soar. She was a beautiful woman, but had been so sad over the years since Clara’s death and Grace’s move to Europe. He wished he could do more for Sarah, but that was Eric’s job. As Donald looked toward Eric, to see why he wasn’t here with Sarah, he saw the man talking to one of the real estate agents that was a friend of the family. Donald couldn’t help the angry feeling that consumed him.
Eric should be beside his wife and welcoming his stepdaughter back home.
“Back home where you belong. Safe and with your family,” John added, hugging his sister again and bringing Donald’s thoughts back to Grace. She sure did look gorgeous and he couldn’t wait to get to know her again.
* * * *
“Grace, you’ll be here when I return from my honeymoon, right?”
Jamie asked, her arm wrapped around her cousin’s.
“You bet I’ll be here. Don’t worry, I know we have a lot of catching up to do. Plus I want to get to know your husband Tod better.”
They walked together along the beautifully landscaped gardens outside the reception area.
“This is a perfect day for a wedding, Jamie. I’m so glad I didn’t miss it.”
“I’m so glad you didn’t miss it either. I guess I owe Peter big-time. Everyone does.”
“He was quite persistent that I make the trip. I’m happy that I did. I would have regretted missing this special day.”
“We have a lot to catch up on, so while I’m gone you should make some plans for us, some quality alone time. I’m sure you are going to get booked up real fast. Everyone’s going to want a piece of you.” Jamie added with a wink.
“I can’t wait to hear about what everyone’s been up to. Peter only told me bits and pieces here and there. I suppose he didn’t want to ruin things for me.” Grace smiled, glancing back toward the dance floor and all her family.
Her brother practically pulled off a miracle, and she was so happy he did.
“I have to tell you, Grace, you look so different. Absolutely stunning and sophisticated. Is this what Europe does to young American girls? “
Jamie seemed impressed and a bit envious. Jamie had chosen to stay local and close by the family. Grace couldn’t seem to get far enough away from the family.