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Fully dressed in her wedding down and veil, Ally gazed out of the window and into the backyard. Elegantly, the gazebo was decorated with pink and red roses. There was a white satin carpet rolled down the fields of grass and on either side white chairs, already filling with guests. Ally recognized friends, colleagues, and people her family knew back in Hamilton Springs.
Two large white canopy tents had been setup off to the side for dinner and dancing. It was going to be the party of the year and Ally couldn’t wait to get started. She couldn’t wait to marry Mitch.
“You should step away from the window before someone sees you,” Lauren instructed.
“I’m hidden by the curtain.” Ally turned to see her matron of honor and all of her bride’s maids. Everyone was beautiful in the simple pink cocktail dresses, each style a little different. Lauren’s long and elegant; Lana’s shorter but practical in a simple V-neck; Sweet Elise’s was frilly and playful.
But it was Daisy who Ally kept an eye on. She had been quiet since the hair salon, which wasn’t like her. And now she looked pained as she sat down on the edge of a chair and held her side. “Daisy,” Ally rushed over to her chair, her dress gathered up in her hands.
“It’s okay. It’ll pass.” Daisy labored a long breath.
“Honey,” Lauren bent down. “You need to get to the hospital. You’re having contractions.”
“I’m not stupid, Lauren. I know that.” Daisy lashed out, angrier than Ally had ever seen her. Daisy sighed and closed her eyes. “They aren’t close together yet. I can make the wedding. I might even stick around for cake. I really don’t want to miss your cake.” Daisy’s lip trembled and Ally was afraid she’d launch into a full on ugly cry.
“Oh hon,” Elise bent over. “We’ll save you cake. We’ll save you so much cake!”
“I’ll bake you your own cake,” Lauren said with a laugh.
“Why don’t you two go see if everyone is ready to get started?” Ally said to Lauren and Elise. “Let’s get the show on the road as soon as we can.”
Lauren nodded and Elise followed her out of the room. Ally sat next to Daisy and her friend took her hand. “You okay?” Ally whispered.
“I’ll be fine.” Daisy licked her upper lip. “Truth is, I’m terrified. What do I know about having a baby? Taking care of something that isn’t a wedding or a dress? I can’t even remember to water the houseplants.” Her eyes teared up again.
“Daisy, you’re more capable than you know. Look what you and John have built. A life, a business. You’re just scared.”
“Terrified,” Daisy corrected.
“You can do this. I know you can but I’ll be with you every step of the way. Why don’t you tell me when your parents get in? Your sisters?”
“Tomorrow and the day after.” Daisy swallowed hard. “Thanks for talking to me and sitting with me. Its your wedding day and I’m so happy to be part of it.”
“I wish we had been ready to get married sooner,” Ally admitted. “Then you could enjoy it more.”
“I’ll enjoy it plenty.” Daisy gripped the arm rests of the chair and slowly rose to her feet. “I’ll get downstairs too. We’ll see you in a few minutes.” She kissed Ally’s cheek and they shared a tender hug.
When she opened on the other side of the door, Logan was on the other side. His eyebrows raised and his hand lifted as if he had been ready to knock. “You look well, Daisy.”
She smiled. “Always a sweet liar, Mr. Sinclair.”
Logan watched her go. “Will she be all right?” His voice full of concern as if he was her father. Logan let out a shaky breath and looked like he was ready to be knocked over. “You look like your mother did.”
Ally blushed and looked away.
“Maybe even prettier, but don’t tell her I said that.” He leaned in close with a wink and took his daughter’s hand.
“Oh dad....” Ally laughed but felt a rise of tears in her eyes. “We both know no one is prettier than mom.”
“Ain’t that the truth? Except for you.” Logan held Ally’s arm and gazed at her. “I’ve made so many mistakes and so many, I thought were for the right reasons. I’m grateful to be here. Grateful Mitch even entertained the idea. His acceptance and your grace, I don’t deserve, but listen....every single day I will earn it. I promise you. You chose good, Ally. You really did.”
Ally touched his cheek and Logan touched hers. She enjoyed the last few minutes she got to be daddy’s little girl.
“Crying is for wimps and commies,” Logan cleared his throat and straightened his tie. He offered Ally his hand. “The bride’s maids will be walking down that aisle soon. It’s our turn to get in place. Unless you’ve changed your mind.”
Ally shook her head. Her chest rose with a deep inhale. “Never.”
“Want to sail to the islands with your old man?”
Ally laughed. “Don’t make me answer that question. But one day, one day I’d love to. Just not today.”