The right example for a little boy who was growing up with his biological dad in jail.

“You look beyond beautiful,” Paige said, giving McKenna’s silk train a shake to make sure it didn’t wrinkle. “Simply gorgeous,” she added, adjusting the long veil to float above the gleaming white silk.

McKenna looked at her reflection in the antechamber’s oval mirror, thinking she’d taken so many photographs of brides in this very spot, doing one last make up check before leaving the dressing room for the church. It was a bit surreal being the bride herself today, and not the photographer. She was far more comfortable being in the background than in the starring role.

Paige kept up a steady stream of chatter to try to distract McKenna. “TJ looked adorable. I love tuxedos on little boys, so cute.” Paige had been McKenna’s best friend for the past two years, from practically the moment she arrived in Marietta with her two young children in tow.

“I hope he’s behaving,” McKenna answered.

Paige grinned. “He’s trying his best.”

McKenna smiled ruefully. “Are my brothers losing their minds?”

“Not too badly. And your brothers seem up for the challenge.”

“I think they wish he had more Douglas in him and less Sheenan.”

“But you love that little boy because he’s all Sheenan.” Paige leaned in and gave McKenna a warm hug. “Now don’t be sad,” she added, her voice dropping. “This is a happy day. You’re marrying your best friend. Lawrence is as steady as a rock. You know he’ll always be there to take care of you.”

Paige was right. Lawrence was exactly that—steady and reliable. A tad conservative, too, but she’d learned the hard way that conservative was better than crazy-ass wild. “I just hope that he’ll always be as patient with TJ as he is now, because a spirited five year old is one thing, but a sassy or sarcastic thirteen year old is another.”

“You’ll just have to work hard to make sure TJ doesn’t get sassy or sarcastic—”

“If he’s anything like his dad, he’s not going to be a saint, and you to have admit, he’s the spitting image of Trey.”

“I haven’t actually met Trey, but I know Troy, and yes, TJ is a miniature of his uncle Troy.”

“If only he acted like Troy…instead he’s wild. Wild like Trey.”

“Wild and adorable,” Paige retorted. “The cutest kindergarten kid ever, with an incredible sense of humor.”

McKenna smiled a watery smile. “He does have a good sense of humor.”

“Yes. He’s hilarious. And he just needs a good kind father figure, a father who is there.” Paige hesitated, picking her words carefully. “Is this about…Trey?”

“No!” McKenna shook her head. “No.”

“You’re sure? Because it’s not too late—”

“I’m sure.” McKenna’s voice hardened. “Absolutely sure. At least, with regards to him. He had his chance. He had dozens of chances. He’s not an option. At all.