Part 25 (2/2)

Justin entered, followed by Trimble carrying a tray holding wine and three gla.s.ses. Mary scrambled to her feet.

”I take it congratulations are in order,” said Justin, focusing on Mary while James straightened his cravat and smoothed his jacket. ”Will we be holding three weddings this autumn?”

Mary met James's eyes. ”We will post banns immediately and be wed in three weeks.”

”By Mary's brother,” added James. ”It will be his first official act as Ridgefield's new vicar.”

Her eyes misted.

”The girls will be delighted,” declared Justin, handing each a gla.s.s of wine. He raised his own in a toast. ”May your love bring you happiness and good fortune for the rest of your days. And may those days prove long and fruitful.”

”Amen,” murmured Mary.

”To us,” added James.

They drank. And when James again lost himself in Mary's eyes, Justin slipped away, leaving them to celebrate in private.

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