Chapter 37
Tonight, the Majestic Ranch is truly living up to its namesake, as the reception tent glows on the main lawn.
Brass candlesticks line the tables, and hundreds of wildflowers create a dizzying array of color across long linen drapery.
White roses sit at the end of each table, creeping up the sides, as the setting sun reflects off golden plates.
The tent is lined with twinkling lights, making it shimmer like the stars above.
Meredith and Grant sit at the top table in two rattan chairs behind an intimate sweetheart table. Music plays through the sound system, and I start snapping photos of all the details.
“I helped with the centerpieces,” Hudson boasts, as I move to photograph the arrangement.
“Guess I’m going to have to add ‘floral designer’ to your ever-growing list of hidden talents,” I reply.
Vivianne appears, giving me a squeeze. “You were so great out there,” she says with a warm smile, fanning herself with a yellow paper fan.
“Wait until you see the photos before you dole out the compliments,” I reason.
“I’m sure they’re going to be wonderful. Everything you’ve ever done has been a masterpiece.”
“You’ve seen my work?”
“Oh yeah. Meredith would send me shots you took in college and a few on your socials. It’s truly breathtaking stuff. I’m so thankful that you were able to come out here for this.”
“It was my pleasure,” I reply honestly, and Amelia directs our attention to the newlyweds as they share their first dance.
I follow them with my camera, catching every dip and turn and starry-eyed kiss before the song ends and they head straight to the cake table, honoring Meredith’s mantra of Always eat dessert first.
The three-tiered vegan masterpiece does resemble their dog Rocco.
They cut into it, respectfully feeding each other from silver forks.
Once they sit down, large platters of food are placed onto each table, as guests pass around entrées.
Hudson pulls a chair out for me and it’s not until I settle into my seat that I see a place card with my name on it and gratitude washes over me.
“I got you a drink,” Hudson says, handing me a glass tumbler, and I instantly recognize it as my favorite: a whiskey sour.
“Don’t worry, I didn’t make this one,” he assures me as I take a sip. It’s absolutely delicious.
“This might be better than Lilah’s.”
“Never say that to her, or you’ll be back to wishing I was making your drinks,” he says, rubbing his hand along my back. It’s such a subtle movement, but the fact we can finally be open about our relationship fills me with pure elation.
“You two are so damn cute,” Meredith says, coming up behind us, draping her arms over my shoulders for a hug. Grant’s standing beside her, sharing a handshake with Hudson as he offers him his congratulations.
“What else is left on the agenda for tonight?” I ask, pulling out my camera, but Meredith swats me away.
“You’ve captured all the major moments.”
“Yeah, but your contract is for another couple of hours and—”
“Mira, please,” she says, cutting me off. “I told you to enjoy yourself this week and that means the entire week. Now put that camera away and have some fun. That’s an order.”
And who am I to argue with the bride?