October 15, 1916
Jesse and Clara had grown close over the course of their relationship. Jesse had the house he was renting from Lee paid off and now owned it. He knew the time was right.
It was Sunday and Jesse walked Clara to church. They sat together. Pastor Frank's sermon was about marriage. He quoted Proverbs 18:22, which talked about how a man who finds a wife finds a good thing and favor with God.
After church, Jesse knew what he had to do.
"Clara, I have something important to ask you." Jesse said.
"Yes," Clara smiled.
Jesse got on one knee. "Clara Grace Stanton, will you marry me?"
Clara blinked back tears. "Jesse! Of course I will!"
Jesse hugged Clara. "Is it okay to get married right now?"
"Right now? Right here?"
"Why not?"
Clara smiled.
"I bet Frank would marry us this afternoon."
The couple went to talk to Frank. He was thrilled for them and was excited to marry them that afternoon.
Clara asked Abigail to be her matron of honor while Jesse asked Jack to be his best man.
The wedding attendance was small. Only a handful of people were in the church pews: Elizabeth, Rosemary, Lee, Cassandra, and Gabe.
Lee walked Clara down the aisle before joining Rosemary in the pews.
Tears rolled down Clara's face as they exchanged vows and rings.
"I now pronounce you husband and wife." Frank smiled. "Jesse, you may kiss your bride!"
Everyone in attendance was thrilled for the young couple. No one was expecting a wedding that day, but were overjoyed for the now Mr. and Mrs. Flynn!