The Affectionate Player - Part2

Chapter 25

Can't wait! OK, Beautiful. Gotta make myself look sexy for my date. How does 2pm suit?

Perfect ;)

Great! And if anyone asks you anything, just answer 'I will'! Practice now.

I will. I will. I will.

She will! I love you, Mrs J-2-B xxx

I know, Hollywood. And I love you xxx

****************

1.27pm.

I stare at the old black clock hanging gracefully on the landing as I contemplate where the day has gone. Glancing back to the bedroom I realise the morning is all but a memory amid the chaos of hair curlers and makeup abandoned in my room. Still, I can't quite believe how composed I am, which is undoubtedly how every bride should feel on her wedding day.

Making a final inspection of my exquisite gown I shift left then right admiring my reflection in the landing mirror. Soph's masterpiece of delicately embroidered vintage lace over champagne satin falls effortlessly to the floor covering my peep toe pumps, and the bodice finely stitched with tiny beads and crystal buttons perfectly cups my bust, the soft cap sleeves fitting neatly on my shoulders. My silky long hair beautifully curled is pinned loosely in place, the V cut of my dress halting low on my back fully exposing me from the nape.

Below are my closest friends and family. Caitlin, Ailsa, Soph and Connie, all stunning in full pink gowns, giggle and chat with my gorgeous mum while dad sits on the grey chaise longue in the hallway fidgeting with his cuffs. My father unrehearsed in wearing bridal attire is solely giving the game away but with his sharp black tuxedo and perfect bow tie he looks dashing despite his nerves.

In blush pink Chanel my mum oozes finesse, her heels and hat matching her elegant cream bag. She's relaxed and excited, looking notably happy despite all she's endured these last few years. And there they are, all those I adore patiently waiting to escort me to the man I love. For a few long moments I bathe in their mirth, my musing curbed solely by the chime of the clock.

"Here she is." Instinctively dad beams at the sound of mum's voice, standing to attention as I take the stairs. Smiling eyes gaze as I carefully descend, warm arms greeting me amid praise and best wishes. Happy tears spill mostly from Caitlin, who at seven months pregnant is overcome with emotion, then raising our glasses we accept dad's toast and as the minutes tick by we make our final preparations to leave.

***********

Some guests finish jiving as we stand to the side, my husband clutching my hand while we await the announcement of our first dance. Max's eyes have scarcely left mine all day as if hypnotised from the moment he'd observed me approach him. And our traditional vows had been sincerely exchanged each word perfectly recited as we pledged to one another our eternal love.

Upon the Reverend's final statement declaring us husband and wife, Max had gently cupped my face claiming my lips. Our guests had cheered and clapped with Monty running into my arms while Olivia passed Holly into her dad's, and as the celebrations continued I'd been deeply moved granting myself a fleeting sob on the lapel of my husband's jacket.

"You look breath-taking, Mrs Jacob." Lifting my head I'd caught a glimpse of his smile, his perfect blue eyes committing me to memory. "And as long as I live I will never forget this moment."

"Me neither." Sighing relieved, he'd kissed the tip of my nose.

"We did it, Hollywood."

"Yes, Beautiful, we did."