“That somehow our families crossed paths before either of us knew it.”
Aaron looked at her.
Alice squeezed his hand.
“I know that sounds strange.”
“It doesn’t,” I said.
She took a breath.
“I know three months doesn’t sound sensible. But it feels right when I’m with him.”
Aaron stayed quiet, which made me trust him more.
Alice looked at him, then back at me.
“Aaron’s lost both his parents. I’m not marrying him because I feel sorry for him.”
“I know.”
“Family just matters differently after that.”
I took her free hand.
“Then promise me something.”
“What?”
“Don’t marry him because you want to replace what he’s lost.”
“I won’t.”
“And don’t postpone your life because tonight frightened everybody.”
Her expression softened.
“So what are you telling me to do?”
“I’m telling you it’s your decision.”
“Jess, they’ve known each other for three months,” Patrick said.
I turned toward him.
“And they’re the ones who have to decide whether that’s enough.”
“I’m her father.”
“And I’m her mother. Neither title makes the marriage ours.”
Alice watched me.
I turned back to her.
“Ask difficult questions. Find out what life looks like when everything isn’t new. But do it because you choose to.”
Alice nodded.
“I can do that.”
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