“When we get back, we'll get on to Hereford, see if we can't arrange some memorial for him.”
“That's a wonderful idea, Drew. They'll be sure to listen to you.”
“Was Aunty Sheila too upset about your move to Midchester?” He asked.
“No, because she and Uncle Norman have decided to retire there. They'll be moving in a couple of months.”
“Wonderful. And I'm moving Aunty Gloria to a nursing home nearby. The whole family will be together.”
“The whole family?”
“Well you are going to marry me, aren't you?”
“Yes,” said Meredith, hardly believing her smile could get any bigger. “As long as you promise me one thing.”
He kissed her nose. “Anything you want, darling.”
“If I decide to go on a murderous rampage, you must tell on me.”
“I shall walk you to the gallows myself.”
“Yes … erm … thank you, darling.” She laughed.
“But the thing is, my love, you'd never go on a murderous rampage.”
“Hmm, I wouldn't rule it out if you started kissing your parishioners the way you kiss me.”
“I promise I'll never want to kiss another woman as long as I live. I love you, Meredith. I've loved you since I first held your bra in my hand.”
A woman who had just been about to walk into the carriage, said 'Well, really!” and stormed off.
“You really are far too wicked to be a real vicar,” said Meredith, laughing so much, tears filled her eyes. “I still think you're an imposter.”
“Are you going to hand me in to the police?”
“No. Never.” She kissed him hard on the lips. “Because if I'm being fooled, I'm quite happy to go on being fooled for the rest of my life.”
Eighteen months later
The church was full of family, friends and other well-wishers. The Reverend Andrew Cunningham stepped forward, and took the baby boy from Meredith. “The child's name?” he asked the parents.
“Buddy Elvis Bert Simpson,” said Jimmy, who stood behind Meredith, with his wife, Betty. The congregation laughed affectionately.
Drew christened Buddy, before handing him back to his proud parents.
Edith Sanderson stepped forward with her goddaughter, a baby girl, who had a shock of strawberry blonde hair. “The child's name?” Drew asked.
Aunty Peg, Aunty Sheila and Aunty Gloria sat in the front pew, each looking on proudly. Even Uncle Norman shed a tear.
“Holly Mary Cunningham,” said Meredith. “As if you didn't already know.”
“Just checking in case you'd changed your mind again,” said Drew. He smiled down at his daughter, and then at his wife, his eyes full to the brim with true love ways.
The End
True Love Ways Page 10