“Second,” all of Destiny said in unison.
“So let it be done,” Patrick announced.
Ethel leaned closer. “Keep this up, Nicole, and you’ll be able to run for mayor someday. I would love for Patrick to step down and take it easy.”
“I’m not built for politics, Ethel.”
“Either way. Bravo.”
After a bit, the crowd quieted.
Nicole smiled. “I promise that I will do my best for the county and for Destiny.”
Another round of applause had Reed and Sawyer rushing up to her. They hugged her tightly, each giving her a sweet kiss.
Reed walked to the mike. “Henry Underwood, would you mind coming up her to the podium?”
Nicole wondered what he was doing.
As Henry approached the stage, the crowd stood, also obviously wondering what was going on.
Reed welcomed Henry by shaking his hand. “First, let me tell you how thrilled everyone here, including me and my brother, are to see you so healthy and happy. You’re a man of honor and you tried to do your best to keep Nicole safe.”
Sawyer moved next to Reed and took the mike. “You’re a real hero in our eyes, sir.”
The crowd cheered.
Reed turned to face her. “Henry, as you know from our phone call the other day, since Nicole’s arrival, Sawyer and I have fallen deeply in love with her.”
They called Henry? When? “What’s this all about?” she whispered to them, hoping it wouldn’t be picked up by the mike.
“Patience, little one,” Reed said, and continued. “As we told you on the phone, we feel it is appropriate for us to ask you for her hand in marriage since you are like family to her.”
Henry smiled, tears in his eyes. “It would be my honor and pleasure to give my permission to you both. May you always make her happy.”
Sawyer and Reed got down on their knees in front of Nicole and the whole town.
“Nicole, you are my world and have helped me see things about myself I never could without you,” Reed said. “Would you do me the greatest of honors and become my wife?”
Sawyer took her hand. “Nicole, you are the woman I’ve always dreamed about, even better than my dreams. You have given us a family again. Would you be my wife?”
Tears of joy streamed from Nicole’s eyes. “Yes, yes, yes, to you both.”
The crowd roared and cheered.
Reed kissed her and stepped aside. Sawyer was right there to kiss her after.
Erica, followed by Ethel and other locals, ran to them with congratulatory hugs.
Surrounded by so many won
derful people, Nicole glanced up into the clear blue sky for a moment.
I am so very happy, Granddad. I’m finally home.
* * * *
Enjoying the late Saturday afternoon, Nicole sat on the tailgate of her guys’ truck with Reed on one side of her and Sawyer on the other.