Prologue

Prologue

Neither Cindy nor Mattheus could believe the time had truly come. The plane they were on headed from Jamaica to Aruba was getting ready to land.

“We’re here, we’ve done it.” Mattheus pulled Cindy closer to him. “I had no idea I would feel this thrilled and victorious.”

Cindy felt thrilled as well. Mattheus had repeatedly told her that Aruba was voted the second best place for destination weddings and that was where they had to go next. This was a trip not only to celebrate their engagement, but to check out wedding venues and set a date. Cindy was amazed that Mattheus wanted a large wedding and was so excited about planning it. He was going to invite whoever was left of his family, an old uncle he grew up around, the police force he’d worked with on the islands and all kinds of assorted friends. Cindy was also surprised that she wanted to be more private. She wasn’t at all sure yet who she would invite.

“Buckle your seat belts. Get ready for landing,” the voice of the flight attendant came over the loudspeaker, breaking into Cindy’s thoughts.

“We’ve done it, Cindy,” Mattheus whispered. “It’s only a matter of days now before we find the venue, set a date and tell the world.”

Cindy buckled up slowly and carefully. “The date will depend on availability of the venue, won’t it?” she asked.

“Yes, it might, but I’m not waiting long,” said Mattheus. “I’ve waited long enough. I’m totally ready now.”

Tears stung Cindy’s eyes, as Mattheus grabbed her hand. She couldn’t help but remember the plans she’d made for her wedding to Clint. There’d been endless arrangements that had taken forever, with everyone in the family having their say. Without a doubt, it was time to move on now. Cindy was sure of her love for Mattheus and of his for her. She was surprised, though, to realize that this time she would have been just as happy with a small ceremony, for a few family members and friends.

“I want the whole world to know about our wedding,” Mattheus proclaimed as the plane began to descend. “We deserve a lavish celebration. We’ve earned it.”

Cindy smiled and said nothing as the plane swooped into the fading light of the early October evening.