Sherryl Woods - Ryans Place

D espite Maggies initial insistence on marrying before Ryan found the rest of his family, she was finally persuaded by her mother to at least wait until fall to give them time to plan a proper, lavish ceremony befitting the oldest OBrien daughter.

In fact, Nell had said with a sly gleam in her eye, if you want to teach Ryan a bit more about romance, a wedding on the anniversary of your first meeting would certainly be a good way to start.

Maggie had been convinced, especially since it meant that the Thanks giving season would mean something special to Ryan and possibly even chip away at his general hatred of holidays.

Besides, a fall color palette for the bridesmaids dresses had made her sisters happy. With the trademark OBrien auburn hair, they all looked fabulous in shades of bronze and gold velvet.

Maggies dress, a heavy white satin sheath with simple pearl trim at the low neckline and a dip in back, was far more elegant and sophisticated than shed originally envisioned, but shed fallen in love with it the instant shed seen it. She made a slow turn in front of the dressing room mirror, still not quite believing that her wedding day was finally here after a wait that had seemed to last an eternity. In less than an hour she would be Mrs. Ryan Devaney.

When she made one last turn, she met her mothers gaze and saw that Nell OBrien was trying valiantly to smile through her tears.

Mom, are you okay?

Youre just so beautiful. They say every bride is radiant, but I swear I dont think Ive ever seen one who glowed with happiness as you do right this minute.

Thats because Ryan makes me very happy.

Her mother smoothed an errant curl back into Maggies upswept hairstyle. Hes a complicated man, your Ryan. That wont change just because hes been convinced to make a commitment to you.

I know that. I dont think hell ever truly be at peace until he finds the rest of his family.

Hows that search going? Anything new?

Maggie shook her head, sharing in Ryans frustration. Jack was concentrating on finding Michael at the moment, and hed run into one brick wall after another.

Ryan and Sean are ready to give up looking for their brother, Michael, but Ive been pushing them to continue. I keep imagining that little boy theyve described sobbing his heart out as they were separated. I know hed be happy to see them again, that hes been waiting for them all these years.

Her mother smiled. You just want happy endings these days, she teased.

Well, of course I do, Maggie said. Ive found mine.

And Ryans found his.

Im part of it, Maggie agreed. But he needs his family.

You know, it wouldnt be so awful if he didnt locate them, her mother said. He has all of us now and Sean and the Mon-roes. And Rory and Father Francis. Id say his life is full.

He says that, too, Maggie said. But I want more for him.

You want it, but does he?

Maggie thought about it. Yes, I think he does deep down. Finding Sean was a turning point. Before that, it might not have mattered as much to him, but hes been a changed man since he located Sean. Maggie smiled. Of course, some of that is because Sean has a wicked sense of humor and a zest for living that can drag Ryan out of his dark moods. I wonder if it was always that way, if Ryan was the serious, responsible big brother and Sean the cutup or if they changed after their parents left.

Youve never asked? her mother said with a surprised expression.

They dont like talking about their childhood. Sometimes theyll start, but it always leads back to that day they came home from school and no one was there. Maggie sighed. Enough sad talk or Ill start crying and have to do my makeup all over again. Have you seen Ryan yet? Is he as handsome as I imagined in his tux?

Not as handsome as your father, Nell said with a smile. But hell definitely do. She touched Maggies cheek. Your father and I want nothing more than your happiness, but I must say Im thrilled that youve found it here rather than in Maine. Its going to be good having you nearby. We missed you.

Now Ill be underfoot all the time, Maggie said. Youll get tired of seeing me.

Never, her mother said. And Im looking forward to all the grandchildren youll bring over, as well.

Maggie laughed. Lets not rush things. Ryans still getting used to the marriage concept.

Her mother glanced at her watch. Then wed better not keep him waiting. Ill send your sisters in and then go into the church. Your fathers waiting for you in the foyer, probably wearing a hole in the carpet, as he did with your sisters. I love you, Mary Margaret OBrien.

And I, you. No woman ever had a better mother.