Chapter 8.4

Chapter 8.4: A Wedding in Bristol

The big day arrived faster than anyone expected. In the weeks leading up to the wedding, Lisa's mom introduced Mr. Junior and Franclon to the world she and Lisa were so familiar with—a bustling community filled with people who had been there for her through the tough years. The town seemed to know every detail about them and welcomed Franclon and his dad warmly.

On the wedding day, Bristol turned out in full force. Family, friends, and even some townsfolk gathered at a beautiful church, adorned with white flowers and candles. Mr. Junior waited at the altar, his usually calm demeanor showing a hint of nervousness, though he tried to hide it with a smile as he saw Franclon in the front row.

When Mrs. Collen walked down the aisle, her arm linked with Lisa's, the entire room went quiet. She looked radiant, her face glowing with happiness as she met Mr. Junior's gaze. Franclon glanced over at Lisa, who caught his eye and gave him a wink, as if to say, Looks like we're officially family.

After the ceremony, they celebrated in the backyard of the Collen home. The evening was filled with laughter, toasts, and dances beneath strings of fairy lights. Franclon watched his dad and new stepmom as they danced, their faces full of the kind of joy he'd almost forgotten existed.

As the night wore on, Lisa and Franclon slipped away from the crowd, standing under the stars, watching the flickering lights. For the first time in a long time, they felt like they belonged somewhere.