Chapter 30: Vernice

In June, Vernice marries Franklin at Danforth Chapel, wearing Mrs. McHenry’s heirloom gown and Annie’s paste pearl earrings. The ceremony gathers family and friends, including Aunt Irene, Marylinda, and Joette, whose grim demeanor signals private grief. Franklin stands without his cane, and Vernice focuses on the future they are about to begin.

At the reception at Paschal’s, the crowd celebrates Vernice’s new status as Mrs. Franklin McHenry. Annie and Marylinda slip away with Joette, and Vernice senses a turning point between girlhood and married life. Franklin checks on Vernice’s feelings, and she tells him she is fully herself, affirming their joy.

Later, in the bridal suite, Annie helps Vernice out of the constricting dress and relays that Joette has confided their past to her. Annie urges Vernice to speak plainly to Joette and, eventually, to Franklin, warning that marriage built on secrets is fragile. Vernice admits she loved Joette but insists it is over.

Annie presses Vernice to offer Joette a proper goodbye, but Vernice, overwhelmed and newly wed, hesitates. Mrs. McHenry enters, basking in triumph, and Vernice tries on calling her “Mother,” accepting her place in the family. Dressed in her traveling suit, Vernice returns to the ballroom determined to honor her vows.

Seeing Joette among the well-wishers, Vernice decides not to meet privately or explain further. She accepts Franklin’s kiss, repeats her vows in her mind, and chooses her marriage, even as unspoken truths linger.