Chapter 18 #3
“Yes, we have been to see him for counseling and he will be at your house by 7:45 p.m., but he won’t be able to stay long after the ceremony. He has to get back for Christmas Eve Mass.”
“Yes, that’s true. You, Da and I will be goin’ to the Midnight Mass later that night, but I understand if you girls can’t be there.
I know it’s late for the children. Of course, Tess and Rory will probably want to spend the night alone.
I know you’re not plannin’ a honeymoon until after the holidays, but . …”
“No, we will be at Mass that night,” Tess assured her, blushing. We both probably need it more than anyone here she thought, after some of the things that went on in their bedroom.
“Well, whatever you decide, dear,” Maeve said. “What’s left on the list, Molly?”
“Did you get the license?” Molly asked.
“We got that last week,” Tess replied.
“Okay, how about the food?”
“I ordered a meat tray, rolls and some salads from Hansberger’s Deli. They have the best food around. I couldn’t get anything hot because like the bakery, they are closing early. I hope that’s all right, Ma.”
“That’s fine, Maggie. I think we’ll eat before the weddin’ and then Tess can go upstairs and get ready. Then, after the ceremony, we’ll have cake and champagne, unless you don’t want Rory to see you before the weddin’ Tess?”
“Originally, I felt that way and I planned on staying at your house overnight the day before, but Rory absolutely refuses to allow it.”
“What do you mean he won’t allow it?” Bridget asked outraged. “It’s your wedding too. Tess,” she continued, narrowing her eyes, “please tell me you’re omitting the word ‘obey’ from your ceremony.”
“I cannot,” Tess replied quietly.
“Well, then tell me why you can’t stay at the house for one night? He’s being ridiculous.”
“He tells me he cannot live without me for that long. He says his heart will break if he has to spend even one night without me,” Tess whispered.
“Oh,” Bridget sighed, deflated for the moment. She had never pictured her big tough brother being all that romantic, but apparently, he was.
All the girls cleared their throats, taking sips of their drinks except Molly who just smiled knowingly.
“What’s left, Molly? It sounds like everythin’ is taken care of,” Maeve stated, getting back to business before her eyes could tear up again.
“I think so,” Molly said. “Rory insisted on professional pictures. The photographer will be there early, but he wants to be done by ten. I told him the wedding was at eight and he assured me he’ll be there by 6:30.
That will give him time to take some pictures of Rory and the family.
He’ll take some of Tess in her wedding dress and then the actual ceremony.
As long as things move along, he should have time for photos of the reception. ”
“That sounds perfect,” Tess added. “I did invite a couple of friends from school. I hope you do not mind.”
“Of course not, Tess,” Maeve answered smiling. “Is there anythin’ else we need to discuss before we go find the most beautiful dress in the world?” she asked, looking around the table.
“There is one small thing I am having trouble with,” Tess stated hesitantly.
“What’s that, dear?” Maeve asked as all eyes turned to Tess.
“It is the house,” Tess answered, her voice becoming stronger. “Rory has not been any help at all. Apparently, it is the only thing in the world he has no opinion about.”
“Have you tried to explain you need help?” Maggie asked, pushing her empty plate away.
“I have Maggie, truly. All he says is, Do whatever you want, babe. Whatever you decide babe,” Tess continued, trying to mimic Rory’s deep voice.
By the time she paused they were all cracking up.
“It really is very frustrating,” Tess groaned.
“I so wanted to be able to put up a small tree, but we do not even have any furniture in the living room. He will not tell me what colors he likes or what style. Twice I have made appointments for the man to come about the carpet, but I have had to cancel both times.”
“Where is Rory today?” Maggie asked with an expression on her face the other girls recognized immediately.
Tess didn’t.
“He is home right now, but he has to work late tonight. He is doing some kind of swap to have a longer holiday.”
“So, he’ll be gone until about what time tonight?” Colleen asked grinning.
“I am not sure, but probably until after eleven,” Tess answered. “Why? Are you girls going to help me?”
“We’re going to help you,” Molly answered laughing. “Let’s go find your dress, Tess, and then we’ll see how much time we have to work with.”
“Thank you,” Tess replied gratefully.
“Oh, don’t thank them yet,” Bridget shot in as she left the table. “Save that for later after you see how things turn out,” she insisted laughing.
Tess nodded and went to the bar to pay the bill. All the girls argued, but she cheerfully paid with Rory’s bank card, including a generous tip for Patrick who laughed heartily about it and thanked her with a big hug that took her off her feet.