Jason gave him a quick smile and clasped James’s extended hand. His grip was firm but friendly, and James knew they had at last settled their differences.
They made their escape under a shower of birdseed. James was relieved to find his car decorated lightly and hoped his friends had not done something to it inside. The words ‘Just married’ were scrawled on both sides, as well as on the hood and back window. He held the door for his new bride and Kate handed James his crutch and cane. He jammed them into the back seat before climbing behind the wheel.
Waving one more time at the crowd, James and Maria departed for their hotel. As the restaurant receded from sight, he took a deep breath and let his shoulders sag. He was tired, both physically and emotionally. A whole evening to relax with
