"Just Another Story" Part Two

                                  

                                                          ~*~ 

 Gretchen grabbed Douglas’ hand then faced the judge.  “You may kiss the bride,” he said in a bored like tone.  Despite his lack of enthusiasm, Gretchen and Douglas shared a deep smile then leaned into a tender kiss.  Pulling back, they gazed into each other’s eyes, excited about what the future held for the two of them.

“So, did they get married out of forbidden love?”  Lois’ eyes were as round as marbles as she desperately waited for Gretchen’s response.

Gretchen grinned.  “Hardly.  He had been sworn the military awhile before they decided to get married, and he was supposed to leave the next day for boot camp.  They had gotten really close three weeks before he was to leave, so they just went with their hearts.”  Closing her eyes, she thought back. “They cared for each other, so much.”  

Lois pouted, “I don’t see how people can marry without love.”  She rested her elbows on her knees, holding the pout in place.

“Well, sometimes love can grow.”  Gretchen smiled to ease Lois’ moping.

“Was that their case?”  Lois perked up instantly.

Laughing, she dodged her question. “I haven’t even gotten halfway into the story.  How about I just continue telling it?”

“This better be good.”  Lois leaned back into the chair.

Douglas grabbed Gretchen’s ring-less, left hand, “I can’t believe we actually did it, wife!”  He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed the back of it, clearly pleased.

Gretchen smiled, her heart fluttering at the unusual act from Douglas, “Me neither. I’m glad we did though!”

Douglas smiled in response, dropping her hand. 

They walked passed shop windows, chatting about small things for what could’ve been hours, but in reality was only less than one.  “What do you want to do before you leave?” Gretchen asked innocently.

Douglas stopped and faced her, sending a wink, “What do you want to do, Gretch?”