03_The Unexpected Gift
Page 20
When Clare took Adam’s arm, he laid his hand on hers and gave her a smile that filled her with joy. As they joined the group assembled at the base of the platform, Nicole stepped forward and handed each of the sisters a yellow rose.
A.J., Morgan and Clare moved together to an empty chair that stood slightly apart from the other guests. Beside it, on a small easel, rested an enlarged copy of the photo of Aunt Jo that Morgan had discovered in Grant’s house. One by one, the sisters bent down and placed a rose on the seat in memory of the woman who had transformed each of their lives. Then they clasped hands and stood in silence, each paying tribute to the aunt who had left them a legacy beyond price.
A legacy of love.
And as the sisters—and brides—turned back to ascend the platform and recite the vows that would unite them with the three special men who had stolen their hearts, they each uttered the same, silent message.
Thank you, Lord. And thank you, Aunt Jo.
Dear Reader,
It is with mixed feelings that I finish this three-book series for Love Inspired, SISTERS & BRIDES.
On the one hand, I am ready to move on to something new. On the other, it is hard to say goodbye to the characters that have peopled my life for the past eight months.
But in a way, this transition mirrors life, which is a series of endings and beginnings, of saying hello and bidding farewell. In this final book, Grant must say goodbye to an old love before he can welcome a new woman into his life, just as Morgan must say goodbye to an old way of life before she can begin a new one. But with a little push from Aunt Jo, and by putting their trust in the Lord, both find the courage to follow their hearts and build a future together.
As you journey on life’s often winding path, may the Lord always be with you, guiding your steps. And, with trust in His abiding presence, may you, too, find the courage to follow your heart and to look toward tomorrow with hope and joy.
ISBN: 978-1-4592-0357-0
THE UNEXPECTED GIFT
Copyright © 2005 by Irene Hannon
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*Vows
†Sisters & Brides