I just ran into Wilford on campus. He told me about your summer school class being canceled. Why didn’t you say anything?
ME
You had enough on your plate.
Also, I was too busy fainting.
SAYLA
I’m so sorry. I know you were counting on that money. What can we do to help?
ME
You’re sweet, but I’ll figure it out.
Also, Bridger and I already came up with a plan.
SAYLA
Did Mr. Toolbox stop by yet?
Oh, he stopped by all right. And also, we decided to get married.NBD.
ME
He’s here now.
SAYLA
Still? What’s going on? Is he showing you how to work a hammer or something?
This pulls a snort out of me, but when I look up, Bridger is watching, waiting.
ME
Something like that. Talk later. ILY
“What else did you find out?” I ask, nodding to indicate his phone.
“Our first step is to schedule an appointment with a magistrate at city hall,” he says. “Or you can do it. Either way. We’re equal partners in this.”
My heart stutters. We’re going to be partners. I have a partner. For real. I swallow. “Then what?”
“Then we visit the Register of Deeds.”
I wrinkle my nose. “What’s a Register of Deeds?”
“They’re responsible for all vital public records. Like death certificates. Marriage certificates. Birth certificates.”
I snicker. “We’re just sticking with marriage for now.”
“Yes.” Bridger doesn’t laugh. He goes back to scrolling for more information on how to MARRY ME WITHOUT WAITING.
“So.” I clear my throat. “Does Harvest Hollow even have one of those … deed registry places?”
“Every county has one, apparently.”
“Huh.”Who knew? Foster and I never got around to getting our marriage license.“Where’s ours?”