Page 54 of The Leaves In Autumn
“Maybe not drunk, but definitely feeling tipsy.”
“No, boys! He was the protector.”
“Thanks, Dad. It was a big job, but somebody had to save these two from themselves! Van alone was a full-time job.”
When the conversation quiets, and I’m taking out my credit card, I am thinking. Maybe the fact I couldn’t protect my own wife from herself has something to do with the despair.
CHAPTER 18
Barbra
Bright afternoon sun streams through the leaded windows, spotlighting the bride. A little bird trills its wedding day song. I am in a Disney movie. Scarlett helps me straighten the hem of the veil. Our bridesmaid dresses are good. Never said that before. Simple and a little sexy. Somehow it fit all the body types. We have Dove to thank. Her wardrobe person does great work. The shoes already hurt. Suck it up, they look good.
“Gaston gave me this necklace the day Van was born. You don’t have to wear it today, but I wanted you to have it. From mother-in-law to daughter-in-law.”
“I love it, Aurora! Of course I’m going to wear it. Can you put it on me?”
“Of course.”
Knock, knock, knock
Dove’s voice calls from the other side of the door.
“Layla, your mother and her fiancé are here to see you. Everybody decent?”
I mouth afuck meto my sister, and she rolls her eyes.
“Great timing.”
I whisper a solution.
“Want me to say you’re getting dressed?”
She shakes her head.
“Let em in.”
“Sure?”
“Come in, Mom!”
The door swings open and our dear mother makes her usual dramatic entrance. She leads with her tits. They are on display in what I must conclude is a dress. She has good legs. That I will say. But come on, it’s your daughter’s wedding!
“Layla!!! Barbra!!! Hello, baby girls!”
The tears start as she holds open her arms, announcing her intention to hug. A little stream of black mascara runs down her face.
“I have been a mess all morning. Come here, give me some sugar.”
Poor Layla. She’s the first target.
The guy behind her has faded into the wallpaper. But we make eye contact.
“Hi. I’m Barbra.”
He perks up and reaches out a hand.
“Xavier. Nice to meet you.”
