Mr and Mrs Crowe
Miss Charlotte Heywood married Mr Henry Crowe ... witnessed by close family and friends.
It was a simple country wedding compared to the grand affairs in London but it was exactly what the bride wanted .. her groom was just happy to be able to marry her.
There were few dry eyes in the church as many knew the long journey both Charlotte and Henry had been on to find one another. The community knew the 'Crowe's would make a positive contribution to community of Willingdon. Henry thought Charlotte looked like an angel and before he spoke his vows he remembered the words of John Heywood. John took it upon himself to give the young man some advice before the wedding.
John's final piece of advice came in the form of a letter which Henry read before going to sleep...
Son,
I will be giving you my oldest daughter to you tomorrow... she is a precious gift... all I ask is that you love her.
Yours
John Heywood
Friend and Father-In-Law
Henry and Charlotte solemnly made their promises before the Lord and each other.
Henry shaking a little as he placed the wedding ring on her finger. He had been a ball of nerves and was thankful for Charles who stood beside him for support. He felt Charlotte take hold of his hand and he became steady as he looked into her beautiful brown eyes. Charlotte was overcome with her own emotions but they were happy feelings. He had told her the ring had belonged to his mother and she looked lovingly at it as he put it on her finger. Once done he covered her hands with his.
When they were pronounced husband and wife those in attendance cheered and watched as he gave her a chaste kiss... appropriate for the church.
The happy couple exited the church and were greeted by their guests and wider community. The younger Heywood children showering the couple with flowers, herbs and seeds. There was much laughter and guest were happy to catch up with one another. There were a large crowd of people who had gathered to wish the couple well. The Heywood's were a respected family and Charlotte being the oldest deserved their attendance.
Henry and Charlotte were given opportunity to have some time alone. He took her around the side of the church away from prying eyes pulled her closely to him and put all his love into one passionate kiss. When finally pulling away they rested their heads against each other... they knew they had to get back to their guests.
"Always remember my dearest wife... you will always be enough!" shared Henry with tears in his eyes.
He couldn't believe this beautiful and spirit woman chose him. She made him a better man and he desired to show her his love everyday. They would face many joys and challenges but they would do it together.
"I love you, my handsome...husband" happily smiled Charlotte
"I love you, my beautiful, spirited... wife" smiled back Henry
Giving her another lingering kiss...hoping that they would not have to stay too long at the Heywood's.
"Mrs Crowe" Henry offering his arm to her
"Mr Crowe" and she gladly placed her arm firmly in his.
The happy couple returning to their guest but couldn't wait ... they needed time alone.
Grace and John were putting on a reception for those invited ... particularly those close friends who were visiting. John was the last to leave the church grounds as he to ensure everything was left tidy.
As he was leaving the church he noticed a lone figure... a tall man, dressed in black standing under a tree outside the church yard... smoking a cigarette. It appeared he had been watching from a distance observing the wedding. Mr Heywood heading over to speak with this man.
He suspected ... it was Sidney Parker... In fact the Inn keeper had told him a man from London had arrived the previous day and had asked about the location of the Heywood wedding.
"Mr Parker... I see you decided to attend"
"Yes, I felt I needed to acknowledge the event" he replied quietly
"You, showed great courage coming today... I know it must have been hard for you"
"Thank you..."
"You are welcome to attend the reception at our estate?"
"No... I am not ready..."
"I understand... but remember you will always be welcome to visit us and know that Crowe misses your friendship... he often talks about the times you helped him." John continued
"Thank you, sir" Sidney putting on his hat... got on his horse and took the road to London.
John watched Sidney ride away and hoped his would start embracing the life he had chosen. To be the father his little son needed and to show the respect to the wife he had married. He hoped Sidney would find the courage to choose them everyday and put them first.
His mind turning back to his daughter and son-in-law... it was a happy day for the Heywood's. John Heywood got on his own horse and headed home to join the celebrations.
His first child was married and happy... he was very thankful for his family.
