“Emily was so excited she forgot. She was so happy she made a mistake and said, “Thank you so much, Mommy!”

“I’m so happy to see you. I love you so much. Thank you for waking up,” Livia spoke quickly but calmly, trying to capture Blake’s attention.”

“A small lady moved on after greeting Livia to address the wedding couple. “Cole Bridge. Look at you!”Cole’s mouth dropped open. “Mrs. D?” After a shocked pause, he scooped her into a hug. “You’re here?”“Of course I am, sweetheart. Your wonderful wife delivered the invitation by hand. She insisted it be a surprise.” Mrs. D rubbed Cole’s arm.Cole turned to Kyle. “Thank you so much. I didn’t know you were going to do this.”Kyle nodded. “I know how much she means to you,” she said.”

“She opened her eyes with a gasp. “I love you.” He had tears running a path down his face. He nodded. “Back at ya, pretty child. So, so much.”

“She watched with a crashing surge of pride as he reached up and pulled the mask off—he was in full sunlight. The orangey red light of the setting sun outlined him. Poughkeepsie’s dusk set the mood. No matter how much Blake healed, Livia had a feeling nighttime would always be their favorite. He disappeared from view, but she knew he was strong. So much stronger so much sooner than she could ever have hoped.”

“She picked up the phone and dialed Blake's number. His silky hello made her smile. "You're smiling, right?" His voice was so intimate. "Of course," she murmured. "Does it still count if you don't see it?" "It counts when I feel it," he replied.”

“Whoever said marriage is boring didn’t marry you!” Livia kissed his cheek. “Thank you for that.”Blake kissed her forehead. “That was okay for you?”“No, that made my orgasms have orgasms, so it was anything but okay.” She smiled.Blake propped himself up on an elbow to stroke her face. “My beautiful wife, welcome to forever.”Livia’s eyes filled with grateful tears.Blake brushed them away. “Now you cry? After I’ve made love to you?”“It’s just that you’re the kindest person in the world. And you’re here with me. I’ll never stop feeling lucky.” She burrowed her face into his warm hug. She felt his kiss on her hair.“Livia, the luck belongs to me,” he whispered. “The kindness belongs to you. One lifetime will never be enough for us.”