Chapter 7 Poppy
A ndi looks incredible—the lace and the mermaid cut of her dress are perfect for her style and shape. She’s working it. Her hair lays in loose waves down her back with a pin holding some back on the side. She’s a knockout and all her assets , as she would say, are on full display and look perfect.
“How are things looking out there?” Andi asks breathlessly as the other bridesmaids, stylist, and her mom fuss over the final touches on her hair and makeup. “Your parents have been amazing with helping us get everything set up.”
“I saw them briefly for a quick hug, while they were buzzing around,” I answer.
Suddenly it’s a frenzy around her making miniscule adjustments. I wouldn’t be surprised if a curling iron was tossed out from the fray. When they’re satisfied, they all part and she begins to assess herself in the mirror.
Pulling the soft, gossamer curtains aside, I peek out at the backyard. They have been busy. White, pink, and green flowers line a cream stone walkway with draped chairs on either side. Twinkle lights hang over an arbor at the end. It’s beautiful. I’ve been so busy helping Andi get ready, getting my own hair done by the stylist, and keeping myself calm that I didn’t even think to look at what they had created for the actual wedding.
The chairs are filled, attendants are in place, there’s an officiant looking man at the front, so I think things are a go.
“Everything is looking ready out there.” Moving over to stand next to Andi, I brush a lock of hair off her forehead and wrap her in a hug. “You look beautiful. Are you ready for this?”
She gives me one of her pure joy smiles, her eyes shining and crinkled with feeling. Squeezing my hand, she turns toward the mirror, giving herself a last once-over, smooths down the front of her dress, then angles her body back towards the expectant group.
“Let’s do this!”
***
Between all our fluffy dresses, heels, final touches, and dealing with that god damned narrow stairway, it still takes the whole bridal party ten more minutes to make it to where we need to line up.
I end up next to Lana, one of Andi’s co-workers.. She’s never been super friendly towards me, but she seems to support Andi, so I like her.
“I’m shocked you’re here.” She leans forward a little too closely, clearly enjoying her pre-wedding champagne.
“Why’s that, Lana?” I know where this is going, but decide to continue the charade for a few more minutes. “Andi’s my best friend, I wouldn’t miss it.” I fuss with the strap on my heel. Why didn’t I choose sandals?
“Well, with everything you’ve been through, I mean. No one would have faulted you for not coming.” She reaches out and rubs my arm consolingly.
I try to shoo her away gently, but she is relentless. “No, I’m doing alright,” I say, smiling as widely as I can so that she knows how well I’m doing, obviously . But I worry I just look crazed now and like I’m trying too hard. Too much?
“I heard Steven is already engaged to someone too. I’ll be honest, I went out with him a few times after you two broke up. I’m so, so sorry.” Lana reaches down to hug me and it’s all I can do to not throw my bouquet in her face.
“Lana, I don’t know why you felt the need to say all that, can we please just leave it alone and focus on the wedding?” I restrain my face from giving her the look of disgust that desperately wants to make itself known. Already engaged?
After dabbing at her makeup in the hallway mirror, Lana nods and turns her attention back to our order and prepping to walk down the aisle.
Good lord, what the hell? I can’t take any more of people’s apologies and honesty.
Before I know it, it’s time to walk and I’m standing at the front of the aisle next to Andi. She hands me her flowers and the ceremony has officially begun.
You held that together well, Poppy . I congratulate myself on not losing my shit with Lana. Refusing to talk to anyone seems like it would have been the right choice. This doesn’t bode well for the rest of the night. Half these people aren’t even drinking yet and I know it will just get worse as the night wears on. I may be branded as anti-social, but I think it will be the way to go.
Absent-mindedly I look out at the crowd. Andi’s mom smiles at me and cries into her Kleenex. My mom and dad give animated waves. It is good to see them again. All the typical friends I’d expect are here. Blinded by the sun, I turn my attention towards the groomsmen, completely tuning out the ceremony. Does anyone actually listen to these? Suddenly I meet the gaze of the guy from the stairs earlier. I was so focused on getting by him that I didn’t notice his kind smile or the way his lips look impossibly soft and full.
I am a little surprised I don’t know who he is. He’s in the wedding party. I thought I knew all of Brandon’s groomsmen. He must have traveled in for the wedding. But, I have been pretty MIA the last half-year, so it wouldn’t be that surprising I suppose, especially given my “no Honey Cove” rule. Andi should have mentioned a guy this cute though.
Snap out of it. You’ve sworn off guys. I give him one last look and he’s still staring at me. I feel something heat up inside me, but I shush it down, reminding myself of my promise to make this time about me, not another man.
Looking away, my eyes catch on the groom’s brother who is not actually looking at my face, but somewhere else. I glance down quickly to make sure everything is properly covered. We’re good ladies. I mean, they do look amazing.
Andi was right about the dress.