Three weeks later
They had just finished the rehearsal in the chapel. Ana would walk her daughter down the short aisle and give Maria's hand to the man she admired, loved and would give her life to save his life. He would promise to honor, protect and be faithful to her for all of her days. Ana would read the Old Testament lesson from Genesis, Chapter 2, verses eighteen to twenty four. Nicky would read the New Testament lesson, a passage from First Corinthians, Chapter 13, verses four through eight. Sean would lead the congregation in the Lord's Prayer and Jack would act as the acolyte for Monsignor while preparing for Holy Communion.
The family returned to the Reagan home to share dinner. Ana, Carmen and Maria had spent the past two days cooking up their favorite dishes. A Reagan family friend had volunteered to warm up the dishes so they could eat as soon as they arrived. The dining table was set as was the table in the kitchen. The family stood all together in the dining room, holding hands while Henry led the family in Grace. The table was covered with all kinds of dishes and the smells were delightful. Conversation flowed around the table with occasional quips coming from the grandchildren's table in the kitchen.
Danny noticed that Maria wasn't eating. "Sweetheart," he whispered, "is something wrong? Do you want something else to eat? I'm sure I could find something in the fridge." He reached out for her hand and ran his thumb over her fingers.
"I'm just remembering your dream and how everything was going great at the wedding until it wasn't. I'm smart enough to realize that it was just a dream but the shy, timid girl that still lives inside of me is just waiting for something to happen and spoil everything. I love you so much and I really want this life with you. And it doesn't help that I have to go back to my mom's place tonight. I'm not sure I'll get any sleep. You won't be there."
"I feel the same way but at least I'll have your pillow in my bed so I can hold it and your scent will be there for me. You know, I think I have a pillow upstairs that I used recently. Before you leave I'll bring it down so you can take it tonight. Will that help?"
"Better than nothing, I guess. We'll both miss you but it's only one night. She kissed his cheek and smiled. "Thank you ."
Coffee and dessert followed and eventually Maria and Danny had to say good night. The boys would stay with Grandpa, their dates would spend the night with Jamie and Eddie and Nicky and her date would go home with Erin and Jack. Everyone pitched in to put away the leftovers and restore the home to its normal pristine condition.
Frank and Henry sat in the living room after everyone left. They were almost finished with their bedtime Scotch and were talking about dinner and tomorrow's events. "I can't remember the last time we fed so many people here. It was great! I just wish my Betty was here to enjoy it. She would have been in seventh heaven to see so many people around the table as well as having to use the kitchen table for the younger set," said Henry.
"Yeah, Pop, I think Mary would have loved it, too. So much love, laughter and happiness. I'm so glad Danny saw what was right in front of him. He's back to enjoying life again. Maria is not only a great cop and partner but she's become his rock and he is her center. They make a great pair. We've got to be up early so finish your drink and I'll take your glass into the kitchen and lock up. Reveille comes early tomorrow." The men prepared for bed and the big day tomorrow.
