1
" Mrs. Flanigan made this for you and dropped it off earlier. So pretty, wouldn't you agree?"...
"White roses - the bride's flower," Mrs. Norton said with a lilt in her voice. "For unity, purity, and a love stronger than death." She touched the edge of a blossom. "And, in addition, you have chrysanthemums for fidelity, optimism, joy, and long life, with the color white standing for truth and loyal love."
As if caught in a spell, Grace stared at the flowers, a lump forming in her throat, the words echoing in her mind... Joy, truth, fidelity, a love stronger than death.
Mrs. Flanigan chuckled. "Mrs. Norton, you make the bouquet sound so poetic. I'm afraid I can't take credit for such a romantic arrangement. I chose the only white flowers still blooming in my garden. "
― Debra Holland , Grace: Bride of Montana (American Mail-Order Bride #41)
6
" If any can show just cause why this couple may not be lawfully joined in matrimony, speak now or --- "Reverend Norton halted, looking behind them with raised eyebrows.
Before Grace had time to wonder why the minister paused - if someone was, indeed, objecting to their union - the rapid click of toenails on the wooden floor made both of them look back over their shoulders.
Frey groaned and made a face. "Gertie!" He released Grace's hand.
Who?
A brown and black dog trotted up the aisle to them, tail held high. She had soft brown eyes and a thin, dark line down the middle of her forehead that gave her a worried look. She stopped in front of Frey and looked at him, her head cocked as if in expectation. The tips of her ears flopped forward.
Seth burst into laughter. "Do you think Gertie's objecting to your marriage?"
Obviously aghast at his breach of decorum, Trudy gave Seth an owlish glare.
Frey shrugged in apparent chagrin. "I'm sorry. I left her tied up on my porch."
She looked from the man to his dog...
The dog sniffed her fingers. Seeming to approve, she edged closer.
Grace rubbed Gertie's head. "If Reverend Norton doesn't mind," she said to the dog, "I'm fine with you remaining for the rest of the ceremony. "
― Debra Holland , Grace: Bride of Montana (American Mail-Order Bride #41)
