Cal pulled the buggy in front of the barn doors. Edward got out the helped Debra down. They took hands and interlaced their fingers. They walked to the door which seemed to open automatically. "May I introduce Mr. and Mrs. Edward Barlow." The DJ said into the microphone. After deep breaths, Debra and Edward walked into the barn filled with people. Everyone stood up and cheered and clapped. They walked out to the center of the dance floor. "And now for the customary bride and grooms first dance."
Edward pulled Debra close as the music started playing. "We can do this."
"Yes, we can." Debra said. She held Edward as they danced across the floor. "This is one reason I wanted something simple." She whispered in Edward's ear.
"You'll be fine. Just a couple of hours and we'll be alone in the hotel room."
"I know." Debra said They danced alone on the dance floor through the song then walked over to their seats in the front of the room. "Thank you all for coming." Edward said. "There's food, drink, music and of course dancing. Enjoy yourselves." Edward said. They sat down.
"I didn't think we were inviting the whole town." Debra said.
Edward leaned closer to Debra. "It's not the whole town, maybe half." Edward chuckled.
"Before we get the party started," Ace said into the microphone, "I want to congratulate my brother, Eddie and his wife, Debra. I always thought Eddie was going to die old and lonely. He never went out and he was always too serious. But then Debra came along and made this man the happiest man on earth. I love you, brother and my new sister. Let's get this party started." He said then music started. Ace walked over to them.
Edward stood up. "Thanks, brother." He said as he shook his hand.
"Do you want me to get anything for you to eat, Debra?"
"I can get it myself. But, thank you. Ace." Debra said. Ace walked away. "He's been like that all day."
"He's kissing butt because of last night." Edward said. "We should get something to eat."
"Yes. I'm starving and the natives are starting to get restless."
"All right." Edward said then got up. He pulled Debra's chair out and they walked over to the buffet.
They ate then they went outside to take pictures. About an hour later, they went back inside and danced a couple of songs. They talked to different people and danced with different people. After a while, Debra found her way to the bathroom. She came out several minutes later and went outside through a side door. She walked past the cars and to a fence. She stood against it and took several deep breaths. She stood there for a while.
"Are you all right, Debra?" The Marshall asked as he walked up next to her.
Debra looked up at him. "Yes, I just needed some air." She said. "I guess Edith and Jason couldn't make it?"
"No, they couldn't." He said.
"I didn't think they would be considering our last meeting. I did tell them to stay out of my life."
"That mission was before my time, but I've read all the reports. They were wrong in not telling you. They should have at least told you when it was all over.
"It's done with marshal. I appreciate you coming though even after our differences."
"Thank you for inviting me. You look beautiful."
"Thank you."
"Are you ready to go back inside?"
"I guess I should before they send a search party after me."
"I don't think they would do that."
"You don't know this family, then. It wouldn't be the first time." Debra said. The marshal walked with her back to the barn. They went in the side door and out to the main room. "Thank you for the escort, marshal."
"You're very welcome." He said. Edward walked up to them. "Congratulations, Edward." He said he held out his hand.
Edward shook his hand. "Thanks." The marshal walked away. "Are you all right? You were gone for a while."
"I needed to get some air. The marshal found me outside."
Edward put his arms around her and pulled her close. "They are bringing out the cake soon and then we'll be able to get out of here."
"That's good." Debra said. "I need something to drink and somewhere to sit. I'm getting worn out."
" Why don't you go sit down and I will get us something to drink?"
"Thank you." Debra said. Edward kissed her then let her go. She walked over to the table and sat down. She watched people dancing. Edward came over and sat down with some punch. Debra drank some.
A few minutes later, Jared and Carrie took the microphone. "We wanted to congratulate Edward and Debra and wish them all the best in all their adventures to come." Jared said. "We are sure they will be happy together and bring joy to each other as long as they work together and trust each other."
Carrie took the microphone. "We love you and we will always be here when you need us." Carrie said. "Bring on the cake."
A server wheeled a huge cake across the dance floor and stopped in front of the table. Debra and Edward walked around the table, cut the cake and fed each other. The crowd cheered and they went back and sat down. The server wheeled the cart away.
"I don't know how much more I can take." Debra said.
"We'll go when everybody is done with the cake." Edward said. "Patience, Darling. Just a little while longer."
Debra reached over and put her hand on his thigh. She rubbed it a little. "You better hope they eat fast or we won't make it to the hotel."
"You don't play fair, darling."
"I know." Debra said then leaned over and kissed him.
The server served them a piece of cake then walked away. They ate their cake slowly then got up. They started walking around the room saying good - bye to everyone. They thanked everyone for coming and walked out to the truck. Edward helped Debra in and then hurried around to the other side. He got in and pulled out.
Edward and Debra checked into the hotel and went to the elevator. Edward pushed the button and pulled Debra close. He kissed her. "I am the happiest man on earth." He said. "I love you darling."
"I love you, too." Debra said. She laid her head against his chest. "I'm pretty happy right now. I never thought I could be this happy."