Epilogue

Tess and Levi walked hand in hand past the rows of white chairs toward the arch made of fruiting grape vines and flowers, where the officiant waited with a welcoming smile.

Adam, Mordecai, and Mojo stood on the bride’s side.

Levi’s SEAL buddies from Iniquus, who were instrumental in setting him on the path back to Tess, stood at his side.

And Betty had ambled in to see what was going on, bending their long, graceful neck to nibble on the arbor leaves that looked so enticing.

Everyone was casual and comfortable under the glory of a Namibian sunset.

Friends and family from the States, the school children who had gone on that wild river ride with them, their families, and extended families filled the guest seats along with Enrico, Josef, and Kimba.

Surrounded by smiles, both broad and joyful, Tess and Levi continued up the aisle.

Reaching the officiant, Tess lifted a hand, gathering the air and rubbing it through her fingers, then turned to grasp Levi’s outstretched hands.

“What do you sense, Tessy?”

“The air is vibrating with love, hope, and thanksgiving. It is the most beautiful thing I have felt in this lifetime.” And with that, Tess stepped into Levi’s arms, and their kiss was the seal that meant this wedding ritual was for their families.

For Tess and Levi, their hearts were already one.

As they pulled apart to make their vows, the officiant chuckled. “Usually, the kiss comes after the promises are made. But in this case and on this occasion, this is the perfect way to start your married life. Two hearts that had always been meant to find each other and then find each other again, dear ones, may you find peace in your union. And may you live happily together all the days of your lives.”

Finally, Levi was where he belonged, with the woman he cherished.

When Levi looked into Tess’s eyes, he felt sure that Tess’s ancestors, Mama Ya, Moses, and Abraham, were all smiling down on them, blessing their union.

The END