Epilogue Of Audra's Marriage To Maxen

Audra had feared that her marriage to Maxen might bring to the surface feelings or words of judgment, but those closest to her offered nothing but affection and support. She was the most fortunate woman alive.
Hand in hand, Audra and Maxen exited the library. The servants must have been hard at work during the wedding, for her bedchamber was now decorated, too, with holly, thick candles resting on pillars, and fragrant pine garlands. There were cushions spread around on the floor in keeping with the casual atmosphere, and food and drink sat on low trays. This way, everyone could sit, recline, and snack.
There was a small open space left in the center of the room, but wide enough to allow several couples room to dance, which Audra assumed was expected of her and Maxen. Although she was eager to begin her honeymoon, she could not deny the atmosphere was pleasant and cozy, so when she heard the first few notes of harp music vibrate, she grinned as Maxen led her by the hand to the middle of the room.
He took

I’m here, and you’ll never lose me again. This time is forever, Audra.”
Although her face was damp with tears and her nose had begun to run, Maxen kissed her anyway. In the background, Audra heard her women friends sniffling with emotion, but moments after that, Vaughan encouraged people to dance, and the harpist switched to a lively tune, and the mood shifted from intense to playful. Audra found herself caught up in this transformation, and she danced like she had not since she was a girl. She engaged in many dances—circle, group, and partner—each one ending with her and Maxen kissing and embracing. Every time they did so, their friends cheered.
Wisely, when the servants came to in whisk away plates and bring in more wine, they moved the cushions and trays to the very corners of the room so food and drink did not end up splattered all over the