Love Me Now (31 page)

L
ike their courtship, their wedding had been just as quick and exciting. In the span of two months, they were married. A small but beautiful ceremony, it was a union of two hearts and two families. The reception was a mass of delight with Trey and Kenya's love as the centerpiece.

Guests mingled and adored the sumptuous food and flowers. But it was Louise who truly savored the beauty of the moment. She looked around the reception area, feeling the joy of her accomplishments.

Kennedy and Juwan were stateside, showing off her new tummy bump. J.T. stood by Juliet as she held their infant son in her arms. Madison and Tony gathered the excited ring bearer, Jonathan, and flower girl, Johanna. Senator Randolph Kingsley, his wife, Alyssa, and doctors Raymond and Hope laughed and talked about their pregnancies.

“It's a sweet day, isn't it?” Trey whispered to his bride.

Kenya smiled. “It certainly is. Thank you.”

“For what?” he asked.

“For being so wonderful.”

“You did that.”

“You said you'd never change for anyone.”

“I also said that I'd never wear one of these,” he said, holding his left hand out. The simple platinum band wrapped comfortably around his finger. Kenya held her hand up beside his. The matching bands—with diamonds for hers—were a true reflection of their never-ending love.

“You know this is only the beginning.”

“I'm looking forward to every second with you.”

They kissed and the guests applauded.

“She is so lucky,” Sidney said.

“Your time will come,” Lynette promised.

James and Trey had long since buried the hatchet and James was back working at his company now under the direct control of Lynette and Regina. She held the purse strings and everyone was glad of it, including James. He still had his brilliant ideas, only now he funneled them to Joshua, who actually implemented a few.

As the end of the reception drew near the announcement was made for all singles to come to the dance floor. The women gathered first as the bouquet was tossed. Afterward the single men stood ready to receive the garter.

Louise pulled out her pen and paper and began taking notes. She delighted in this part. “What are you doing?” Colonel Wheeler asked as he moved to her side.

“Oh, nothing,” she said as she continued to jot down names.

“Doesn't look like nothing to me,” he said.

“Well, if you must know I'm taking a few notes, reminders really.”

“Louise,” he said.

“Otis,” she replied. He chuckled and shook his head.

“So, Mrs. Gates, you gonna marry me or what?”

“Oh, I guess I might as well,” Louise answered.

Everyone in the room stopped.