Page 112 of Our Broken Pieces
And it’s not really fake anymore.
I thought I had known love in the past, but saying and receiving those three little words with Marcus made me realize what I felt before wasn’t even close. With him, it’s undeniable,it’s reciprocated, it’s genuine. The way he makes me feel cared for, safe and accepted, is everything I’ve been looking for.
And he was right in front of me for the past two years.
But maybe that’s why it’s so easy with him. We’ve been through the ups and downs in life already. He never ran when I got emotional or needed someone to listen. He accepted my crazy side, along with my quiet side. And I’ve done the same for him. We built a solid foundation without even trying.
Audrey pulls my garment bag from the closet. “Dress time!”
Knowing I had a traditional, appropriate wedding dress for our Boston wedding, I decided to stay Gigi-authentic for our elopement. As Audrey unzips the bag, she gasps.
Melonie’s eyes shoot to the bag. “Is that a blood-red dress?”
I smile. “Yes it is.”
Audrey removes the dress, taking in the sleeveless bodice and the flowy, chiffon finish at the bottom. “It’s gorgeous, and it’s so you.”
I step into the dress. I’m not wearing a bra, but I kept underwear on for Audrey and Melonie’s sake. And I’m contemplating not complying with Marcus’ rule to see if I can get a rise out of him later.
Audrey zips up the back, and I adjust my tits, making sure my cleavage is just right. “Audrey, there should be a ribbon in the bag with my hair stuff. Can you grab it for me?”
Audrey digs in my bag, finally retrieving the matching piece of dark red satin. I take it from her and tie it around one of the bobby pins that are holding some of my curls back from my face.
“Marcus is getting all his favorites tonight. Well, almost all of them. I can’t wear thigh highs on a beach.”
Melonie laughs. “You two are perfect for each other.”
Audrey looks between Melonie and me. “Can I tell you guys something crazy?” We both nod. “When I met Linc and Marcusin Jamaica, I thought Melonie would be best for Marcus and Linc for you, Gigi.”
I laugh so hard, I feel tears threatening my eyeliner. “Linc would not have survived a day with me.”
Melonie cackles as she sits on the bed. “Audrey, that’s nuts.”
“I know, but look at how it all worked out. We found our persons.”
I dab my eyes with my tissue. “I sort of have a confession.”
Melonie grabs a tissue. “Spill.”
“This might not be a fake wedding anymore.”
I cover my ears as both of the women squeal. “Tell us what happened!” Audrey grabs my hand.
“We said I love you last night.”
“Oh my God, Gigi. This makes me so happy.” Melonie sniffles.
“He said it first. I cried and said it back, and then he railed me into the bed.”
Melonie glances down at the mattress she’s sitting on and slowly rises to her feet.
“Not on that bed,” I assure her.
She flops back down. “Thank God.”
“So, this is real? No more expiration date?”
“We’re going to give ourselves the room to figure things out, but no more scheduled expiration date.”
