Surrogate

"Mom, it's okay," Grace hugged me from behind. "I won't tell anyone. I see how you two look at each other... It was kind of nauseating as a teenager, but when I met Jack, I understood. I just thought someone should acknowledge what an extraordinary person you are. You were always what I wanted to be when I grew up."

Yeah, that didn't help the tears, but it did reverse my feelings that our family would fall apart. No, we were as strong as ever. I put one hand upon hers as I desperately tried with the other to wipe my eyes. A deep breath and two snifles later, I finally collected myself... mostly. I focused on the knowledge that this was her day. "Let's get this necklace on you." I quickly clasped it around her neck. "Oh, you look so beautiful."

"Thanks, Mom."

I didn't know if that was to the prior conversation or the compliment, but it really didn't matter. "Now I need a few minutes to redo my make up."

*

I took my seat in the first pew, before standing as the procession commenced. Father gave Grace away before sitting next to me, our hands unconsciously joining together.

*

I didn't mention the conversation to Father. It had felt so long ago, almost as if he being my Dad was a dream I had lived through. Now my reality was far better.

I still cherished him.

I still would marry him.

I still loved him.

Forever.