Chapter 35
That morning, Judy had plans to visit a chapel for a moment of quiet reflection and blessings.
Kathleen wanted to tag along, so Judy brought her along, while Shawn and Henry stayed home.
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On the drive up to the countryside chapel, Judy’s expression turned a little solemn Christmas should have been joyful, but the thought of how little time her son might have left weighed heavily on her heart.
Kathleen understood that feeling, too. She didn’t love Shawn, but she still wished him good health.
When they arrived, the chapel grounds were already filled with visitors, mostly women, quietly taking a moment for their wishes and hopes.
After Katherine followed Judy inside, they stood together, closed their eyes, and quietly prayed.
After a while, Judy’s eyes were rimmed with tears.
Kathleen noticed but didn’t say anything. The scent of candles and wood in the chapel gave the whole place a calming energy.
As they left and rode back in the car, Judy stared out the window for a long while. Then, she asked, “Do you think wishes really come true?”
“They do,” Kathleen said firmly. “He’s a good man. He deserves a long life.”
Judy turned her gaze toward Kathleen, her eyes filled with a quiet surprise. “You were also praying for him?”
“I was.”
Judy finally smiled, her heart easing a little as she reached over and gently patted Kathleen’s hand. “Whether you meant it or not, I appreciate you praying for him today.”
Kathleen looked back at her. “Of course I meant it.”
Judy smiled with genuine warmth.
That afternoon, Judy brought Kathleen to a private restaurant reserved exclusively for the Vance family. It was their yearly tradition to gather there during the holidays.
“Judy, are you sure I should be going?” Kathleen asked, hesitating in the car.
“You’re my daughter–in–law. Why wouldn’t you come?” Judy replied firmly. “Besides, it’s a good chance to meet the other members of the family.”
Kathleen cared about Shawn’s well–being, but she had never imagined getting involved with the rest of his family. And after what had happened with Chelsey, she couldn’t help feeling cautious.
“They won’t bite,” Judy said lightly. “You don’t need to do anything special. Just stay close to Shawn. No one expects you to memorize everyone’s names right away. There’s time for that.”
That reassured Kathleen a little.
They walked through the grand gates into an elegant estate courtyard. Stone paths, a marble fountain, and graceful buildings made it feel like a historical
manor
It was like stepping back in time. The quiet beauty of the place settled her nerves.
As they walked along the covered corridor, they arrived at an arched entrance where Shawn was waiting. He wore a long black coat and leaned against a white stone wall, looking tall and charming.
“Mom,” he greeted as Judy approached.
Judy stepped up to him and touched his hand. “Why are you standing out here? Isn’t it cold?”
“I’m fine,” Shawn replied, his eyes flicking to Kathleen.
“Is everyone inside already?” she asked.
“Yes,” he replied.
Keep Kat by your side,” Judy advised. “Don’t let her get overwhelmed.”
Shawn glanced at Kathleen and gave a short nod. “Okay.”
Still, Kathleen felt nervous. Their marriage hadn’t started with love or any real intention of permanence.
She never planned to carry the title of “Mrs. Vance” for long, and now, meeting his relatives made it all feel heavier.
As Judy walked ahead, Kathleen reached out and gently tugged Shawn’s sleeve.
