Epilogue
The heavy fabric and faux-fur cuffs and collar of her wedding gown’s coat-like outer layer had kept her plenty warm throughout the short outdoor ceremony, but the heat of Nick’s hands as he clasped her face was heavenly, chasing the chill from her cheeks. With a tantalizing lack of hurry, he kissed her to seal their marriage, and almost on cue, snow began to fall as he drew her body against his, adding a hint of magic to an already perfect moment. The simmering impatience that had been her faithful companion for the last year faded away.
“At last,” he whispered against her lips.
Grinning, she nodded in agreement. After twenty-one years of friendship, their year-long engagement had crept by, but now they were husband and wife, and she melted into him.
“It is my absolute pleasur
