Josie blinked.

Margot may have claimed I was the father, but I wasnt. He watched Josies face, relieved by her tentative smile. I can have my arrest records by the end of the day.

I dont need records, just your word, Josie whispered, the tears gathering in her eyes. Mrs. Needleman told me that when I talked to you Id know whether I could trust you, right here. Josie took one of Ricks hands and pressed his finger into her belly. She was right. I will never doubt you again, Rick.

He fell into her, and she welcomed him into her arms. After the initial rush of relief, Rick grabbed her and pulled her onto his lap. He kissed her softly, letting his lips tell her all the things words could not do justicethat she was the love of his life, the glue that held all the good things together.

Genghis began to lick Ricks face, ruining the moment. They both started laughing.

I think hes jealous, Rick said.

No. Hes just missed you. Josie touched Ricks cheek. Hes started sleeping by the door. Hes been waiting for you.

Thank you for coming to talk to me. Rick propped her up on one of his knees. Dont ever be afraid to ask me about my pastor my present or future for that matter. Theres nothing I dont want to share with you.

Really? Josie bit her bottom lip. You love me like that?

Rick chuckled. Would you like to know just how much I love you?

Josie nodded, her eyes sparkling.

Lets stand up for a minute. Josie jumped to her feet and pulled Rick up.

Now, close your eyes for me. She did. Keep them closed.

Rick dug into the front pocket of his shorts, pulling out the little velvet box hed been carrying around since the night his proposal was interrupted. It seemed like years ago.

He got down on one knee. He opened the box and offered it up in his right hand. Genghis plopped at Ricks side. Clearly, this was going to be a team effort.

You can open your eyes now, Josie.

She gasped, and her hands flew to her mouth in astonishment.

Will you marry me? Will you try this with me?

I will! she shouted, half laughing and half crying, staring at the ring in awe. I think Im about to get carried away again, she said, just before she pounced on him.

The August air was clear and cool, and a few clouds floated across the blue sky. Samhain Ranch was in full bloom, the grapes plump and round, the fig trees heavy with fruit, the gardens bursting with outrageous color and scent. The one hundred or so invited guests mingled on the lawn and sipped champagne, their laughter rising and falling on the breeze. Dogs and children weaved in and out of long skirts and tablecloths. Josie couldnt help itshed been spying from behind the thick vines of the guest cottages second-story balcony, and she couldnt tear herself away.

It was her wedding day. Who would have ever imagined that Josephine Agnes Sheehans wedding would look like something from a storybook? Who wouldve imagined shed be marrying a man like Rick Rousseau?

Frankly, whod ever imagined Josie getting married, period?

Theres not going to be a wedding if you dont finish getting dressed!

That was Beth, yelling from downstairs.

Josie, we cant find your fathers cummerbund! That was her mother. He might have left it at home! Sweet Mother of Jesus! /Psst./ Josie turned in surprise to see Rick perched on a bedroom windowsill.

She laughed in surprise, her heart soaring at the sight of him. How in the world did you get up here? Youre not supposed to see the bride before the ceremony!

Too bad. Rick took a few strides toward her, but stopped abruptly. My God, youre beautiful.

Josie stepped in from the balcony and faced him, immediately feeling his lustful gaze burn her skin. She wore only her white stockings and garter, satin heels, and a white lace bustier and panties. She put her hands on her hips. Well, I sure hope you like what you see because youve just ruined your big wedding-night surprise, Rousseau.

A huge smile spread across Ricks face and he rubbed his close-shaven chin. Ill pretend like Ive never seen it before. I swear. He chuckled.

But, since Ive already ruined it, would you mind just turning around for me? Just once?

Josie did a half spin, raised her arms, and wiggled her hips like a hula dancer. When she turned back around, Rick looked flushed.

You okay?

No, Rick said, hopping down from the windowsill and adjusting his tuxedo trousers. I dont think its appropriate for a guy to get married with a raging hard-on. It may even be against the law.

It was Josies turn to admire her betrothed. Ricks hair was neatly trimmed and combed back from his strong, handsome face. His mellow green eyes smoldered in contrast to the pure white of his tuxedo shirt and white tie. They also matched the green of the two serpent heads peeking up from the collar. The perfectly cut black Armani jacket and trousers gave him a sleek, sophisticated look. The entire ensemble was topped off by his worn running shoes and no socks.

Rick saw her expression. Dont worry. Ill change into my other shoesI just didnt want to climb the trellis in those things. No traction.

Of course, Josie said, smiling. They held each others gaze for a long moment, saying nothing, each savoring the vision of the other. She felt it. She knew it. Rick was the one for her. She was the one for him.

I finished my vows this morning, he said, a touch of pride in his voice.

And everythings loaded up in the limo.

Thats great.

Rick came closer and reached for her hands. Are you okay, sweetie? You seem a little quiet.

Josie nodded and said she was fine, but the tears started. Im blown away by all this, Rick! My Godwere getting married! She blotted at her eyes.

I cant start crying now or Ill never stop!

Its okay, baby. Rick pulled her close and cradled her in his arms. He held her carefully, aware of her complicated hairdo and her makeup. He kissed the top of her head with the utmost caution. You know you can always tell me anything, no matter what it is. He paused. Are you having second thoughts?

Josie pushed herself away and stared at him with wide eyes. Are you freakin nuts? she asked. They both laughed loudly. Are /you/ having second thoughts?

Hell, no. I am the happiest man that ever lived. /Who are you talking to?/ That was Beth shouting again, only this time she sounded much closer. Oh, my God! Get out! Beth yelled, pointing an accusing finger at Rick and retreating from the bedroom door. Mom! Rick snuck into Josies room!

What? her mother screeched from downstairs. Beth, get down here and help me with this godforsaken, muddy-mettled rascal of a dress!

Rick raised an eyebrow. /Henry V?/ /Hamlet./ Im outta here. His hand slipped from Josies grasp and he hurried to the window.

Hey, Rick? she called after him.

He turned, halfway over the windowsill.

Thank you. Josie didnt know why she said those particular words, but they were what needed to be said.

For what, sweet Josie?

For agreeing to have that cup of coffee with me. I know saying yes wasnt your first instinct.

Rick tilted his head. She watched his smile tighten as a wave of emotion swept across his face. For a moment, she thought he was going to cry, too. Thank you for asking me, he said, swallowing hard. I know it wasnt your first instinct, either.

Josie nodded.

Rick blew her a kiss. Im going to spend every day showing you how happy I am to have you in my life.

Josephine Agnes?

Josie turned to see her mother and Beth in the hallway, holding Josies wedding gown aloft. Behind them were Roxanne, Bea, and Ginger, in matching moss-green gowns accented by matching expressions of amusement.

Bea dramatically crossed her eyes, sucked in her cheeks, and made a peace sign over Beths head. Josie laughed.