Page 88 of Holiday Wedding
Even more stunning than the flowers and fabric are the thousands of lit candles on the stage. They glow and twinkle in every shape and size, givingthe space an eclectic, romantic feeling. Candles have also been placed on balconies that line the walls, rising high over our heads. The theater has taken on a sophisticated winter vibe that perfectly matches the vision I had.
“What’s it look like?” asks Jenny, raising her voice over the jazz that Caleb selected. The orchestra had insisted on being here today. They told us they would be honored to perform our wedding music live. Many times, Caleb has felt isolated. Apart from everyone around him. Seeing his co-workers support him on this has touched him deeply. It was a reminder that the relationships he forged here are lasting. That he was no longer alone.
“It’s like a fairytale brought to life.” Answering Jenny’s question, I’m amazed at the decorations.
Jenny leans a hand on my shoulder and jumps, trying to see over me.
“Is Dean there yet?”
I giggle at her eager expression.
“I’m not sure who’s more excited to walk down the aisle, me or you.”
That makes her laugh, a light pealing sound.
I grin at her. “I’ve never seen you so smitten.”
“I know. I can’t stop smiling,” she admits and impulsively hugs me, too tight like she always does, crushing the white tulle of my dress, but I don’t mind. After almost losing my life at the airport, I have a newfound appreciation for my friends and family.
If it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t be standing here today, dressed like a princess. Jenny pulls away, and I straighten the gauzy folds of my wide skirt, which brushes the floor. The bodice of my gown is off the shoulder. Sparkling seed pearls and rhinestones hand-sewn onto the fabric create flowers and vines. My favorite part, the thing that made this dress stand out from all the others, is that some beads form tiny pine cones. I loved how that detail fit with our wedding theme.
“You and the theater are both beautiful,” says Jenny.
I take in my best friend. She’s glowing in her maroon bridesmaid’s dress. I tell her, “You’re gorgeous, too.”
She smiles, ducking her chin shyly. “Normally, I’d think you were just saying that to be nice—”
“What?” I interrupt. “I mean it. You look lovely, Jenny, like you always do.”
She straightens, standing tall. “You used to say things like that, and I’d dismiss them. I couldn’t see it in myself.”
Sadness tugs at my heart. I know this about my best friend, all her insecurities.
She continues, saying, “Now when you tell me I’m pretty, I’m starting to believe you. It’s partly because of Dean, because he makes me feel beautiful, but recently I’ve been working on myself. I don’t want to only feel good because some guy likes me. I need to do it alone. To realize I might not be perfect, but I’m perfect enough.”
I grab her hand and squeeze it between mine. “That’s wonderful. I want you to view yourself the way I see you, as the kindest, most beautiful inside and out, person I know.”
We share another too-tight hug, grinning at each other. I peer through the door and watch as our guests enter and settle into their seats.
“Everything’s worked out.” Jenny adjusts the wide, glittering, scarlet ribbon that holds her bouquet together. It matches mine, glossy berries with pine and snow-white roses.
“Not everything,” I say and sigh. “Lola’s still out there. No one’s found her.”
“They will,” Jenny reassures me. With a grimace, she says, “I’ve got news.”
“What’s that?”
“Eddie got fired. I guess Caleb’s lawyers contacted the newspaper about him obtaining that list of suspects unlawfully, since he stole it from me.” She scuffs her foot on the ground. “There’s more. I found out he gave me a bad review, as my supervisor. That’s why I got passed over for the investigative team.”
“What?” Anger bristles and races through my veins. Murderous thoughts surface, all directed toward Eddie, that little weasel.
Jenny smiles sadly at me, her shoulders slumping. “Sorry to dump that on you right before your wedding, but I didn’t want to hide it.”
I calm myself, not wanting to add to her worry. After a couple of deep breaths, I say, “It’s okay. Last night, Caleb told me he was getting his legal team involved. I’m glad Eddie got what he deserved.
“I have news too. Justin’s being held without bail. They think he’s too muchof a flight risk since he’s already changed his identity once. The police called this morning and asked if I would press full charges. I said ‘yes.’” I sigh shakily, nervous about the trial and all the drama that will surround it. Before I left for California, I had wanted to stay out of the limelight, but now I’ll be thrust into the middle of it. I know I’m strong enough, though, especially with Caleb by my side.
“I’m sorry.” The sympathy in Jenny’s gaze tightens my throat. “That’s a lot to deal with right before you get married.”
