* * *
3 months later
“See, I knew it!” Jim said, his eyes shining with pride.
Mari was just jumping up and down like a kid gripping the acceptance letter, silently screaming and shouting with joy.
“They think you’re awesome, too. How could they not? You, my love, are a dream come true.”
“I’m so happy. This is so awesome! I can’t wait to start.”
“You’ll be matriculating as Maribel Craig, won’t you?”
“You’re asking me if I’m keeping my last name?”
“Well, we’re having that summer wedding, but you’re this independent woman, so…”
“By the way, it’s so weird leaving everything in the hands of a wedding planner, especially since it’s so small.”
“Any word from your sister on whether or not she’ll make it?”
Mari’s shoulders sagged and Jim regretted bringing it up.
“Not yet, but it’s fine if she can’t. It’s not like it would be a surprise. My mom and dad will be there, Annie will be there, and you will be there. That’s all that matters to me. I love you, Jim Craig.”
“I love you more, Maribel Gibson.”
She poked him.
“Craig,” he corrected himself, swelling with joy. “See, that’s all I wanted to know.”
They locked lips, and Jim felt so light and happy, he almost thought his feet might actually lift from the ground.
* * *