Reception

The guests all gather in an expansive patio area, where food and drink flows freely. You and Sam are congratulated over and over, and she never leaves your side each of you with an arm around the others waist. Eventually, everyone has said something to you save for one last group.

Smiling in a way you’ve never seen before, Devin approaches with Abby on his arm. He shakes your hand, and does the same for Sam. “Sorry if we crashed your wedding a bit, but somebody needed to accompany Harold. And besides, I needed to thank you.”

He looks at Abby, sharing a smile with the dog girl Hybrid. “Honestly, I never thought I’d be so happy. Abby is wonderful, and I have you to thank for that. Without having met you, I doubt I would have taken her in.”

You smile at both of them. “I’m happy for you both. It’s good to see the smiles.”

Devin nods. “That’s all I wanted to say. Congratulations to both of you, and to the rest of your family.”

He glances over to where Emi and Lili are sitting, chatting with some other guests. “I won’t ask about Emi, but that’s an interesting development. Best of luck.”

With that, he and Abby walk away, leaving Harold and Sylvia standing in front of you. Both are considerably more tan than last time you saw them. Harold shakes your hand, while Sylvia gives Sam a hug. Once everyone separates, Harold looks between the two of you with a smile.

“Well. What a day, hmm? What a day. Congratulations, on many things, it seems.”

You chuckle. “It’s been busy lately.”

Sam laughs. “To put it mildly!”

Harold nods. “You’ve been through the fire, it’s true, but you’re stronger for it. You two will do well.”

He glances over at Emi, raising an eyebrow. “So. Not to pry…well, no. I’m going to pry. Emi?”

You chuckle. “Yes. Twins, it turns out.”

Harold looks at you, confused. “But…how?”

Sam shrugs. “It seems like the sterility enforced by your process is only temporary. She’s not the only one. Alice as well.”

Harold looks at Sylvia, who shrugs. He chuckles, shaking his head. “Well, to borrow an old quote, nature finds a way. I’ll want pictures of the little ones, okay?”

You laugh. “You’re supposed to be in hiding. How will that work?”

Harold grins. “Same way I found out about this wedding. Claire. She keeps in discrete contact with me.”

Sam laughs. “Of course she does. Don’t worry, you’ll get plenty of pictures. Of all the children.”

Harold looks at her curiously. “All? Are you…?”

Sam looks at you with a smile. “Not yet…but soon.”

Harold laughs, clapping you on the shoulder. “I think that’s my cue to leave. Congratulations again, on everything. And best of luck for the future.”

With that, he heads off to talk to Mark and Alice. Sam gives you a kiss, and the two of you sit down to enjoy some food. After a few hours, though, she grows restless, and you say your good nights to the gathered people. You endure a few cheers and knowing looks, as it’s fairly obvious that sleeping is not in the agenda. Soon though, Sam is dragging you inside, a smoldering look in her eyes.

“Well, my handsome husband…time to fulfill your promise…”