EXPECTANT BRIDE-TO-BE Page 19

  All in all, the day had been one of the best that Abby could remember. She was sorry that Larissa hadn't lived to see her reunited with her sisters. She knew, too, that Sarah missed her adoptive parents' presence, and that Jessica was burdened by Deidre's continued, and indefinite, confinement in a rest home.

  But like the sun chasing away the shadows, their joy at finding each other, as well as the wonderful men they had chosen to marry, tempered their sadness.

  Now, if only she could find her beloved—

  "Ah, here you are," Jack said, coming up behind her and putting his arms around her. "I've been looking all over for you. Judith said you'd gone into the house, but with so many rooms, I felt like I was wandering around, lost in a maze."

  "I'm glad you finally found me," Abby said, leaning back against him as he splayed a protective hand over her belly.

  "Mmm, me, too … in more ways than one." He bent and kissed the side of her neck. "Having a good time, Mrs. Randall?"

  "A wonderful time, Mr. Randall."

  "Ready to join the party again?"

  "In just a moment." Turning in her husband's arms, Abby put her hands on his shoulders and looked up at him. "I love you, Jack Randall."

  "And I love you, sweet Abby … always and forever."

  Holding her close, he kissed her, sealing his vow with a solemnity that made her dizzy with wonder and joy.

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