by Amy L. Gale
∞
Sweat pours from my body and my heart is pounding like a jack hammer. I hop up to a sitting position and gasp for air. Great, a nightmare! Thank God I didn’t wake Van. The clock reads three a.m. I quietly creep out of bed and splash some water on my face, making sure I don’t turn off the light on my way back.
I crawl back into bed and gaze upon the flawless face sleeping next to me. Will he sleep just as peacefully when I’m away? I sink my head back into the pillow. I haven’t had a nightmare since I was a kid. Maybe all this stress is getting to me, or maybe my heart won’t listen to my brain. Am I destined for a tragic ending?
CHAPTER 18—WHITE WEDDING
The blaring tone of the hotel wake-up call pulls me from my peaceful sleep. Ugh, is it really morning already? I glide my fingers over Van’s rock hard chest and hold him close to me one last time before forcing myself to leave the bed. Time, now my mortal enemy, has passed quickly and I only have an hour left before I need to check in at the airport for my flight to Savannah.
Van pulls me on top of him and grazes his fingers up and down my back. “I’m not so sure I can let you go yet. I may need one more memorable activity.” He raises his eyebrows as he gently caresses my skin.
“The next memorable activity is going to be you, getting me a cab. I miscalculated the wake-up call and I’m super late.” I hop out of bed and head to the bathroom.
I pick at my fingernails. This is the first time Van and I will be attending a family gathering together, and it just so happens to be the most important day of my sister’s life. Please let this weekend go well! Since I’m going to be his only sister-in-law, Bryce will have many fun filled years of me embarrassing him. No need to start today. His parents are very prim and proper, so we have to be on our best behavior. I certainly don’t want to offend them in their own home. A few beads of sweat form on my neck. Van will be meeting my entire family. Is it possible for them to refrain from doing or saying something insanely embarrassing? Yeah, I’m pretty sure my parents already covered that.
Good thing I’m taking Van’s clothes with me so he can travel light. He’s basically jumping on a plane right after his show in Seattle in order to make it to Savannah on time. I sit on my suitcase and pull the zipper closed. We’re all packed. Yay! I still have a few extra minutes to spend with Van. I crawl onto the bed toward him and wet my lips.
Knock Knock.
I sigh. Who could that be? I pull the door open. Jenna and the guys are standing outside the room with a service cart.
“Hope you don’t mind. We’re all having breakfast together before you leave us!” Jenna exclaims as Tyler and Marcus push the cart into our room.
Marcus fills the coffee cups. “Airport food sucks and this hotel has a four star restaurant.”
Chaz lifts the silver domes covering each plate to reveal eggs benedict with fresh fruit. “I left some chick in my bed just to have breakfast with you. I hope I’m not turning into Van.” He laughs and Van throws a pillow at him.
Jenna pours orange juice into beautiful crystal goblets and hands everyone a glass. She holds hers up. “Here’s hoping that the six of us are all together again for Devil’s Garden’s next tour.”
We all raise our glasses and sip our juice. My eyes began to water as I pull in a deep breath. Everyone wants me to join the next tour? Jenna and I have become very close, but I’ve also gotten attached to the rest of the band over the last few months. I’m sure going to miss these guys.
My extra few minutes seem like seconds. Everyone hugs me as we exchange our goodbyes. I swear to call Jenna at least twice a week. Chaz pesters me to send him pictures of hot girls from the wedding even though there’s no way he could put up with the uptight women who are friends with Sydney and Bryce. Everyone clears out of our room. It’s just about time to leave.
Van sits down on the bed, pulling me next to him. “I know we have all of about five minutes, but I want to give you something.”
I wrinkle my eyebrows and twirl my hair around my fingers as my heart rate quickens. “You already give me everything. Plus, I’ll see you Saturday.”
“Yeah, I know, but I saw these on my way to dinner in Arizona. They’re perfect for you.” He opens the nightstand drawer and clutches a red velvet box.
My heart flutters like the wings of a hummingbird. I tremble as I brush my fingers over the soft red fabric. Slowly and gently, I open it. A beautiful pair of flower shaped diamond earrings. I gasp! They must have cost a fortune. An army of a thousand men couldn’t contain my smile. I place them in my ears and turn toward the emerald eyes searching my face. “I love them! Thank you.”
He tucks a few stray strands of hair behind my ears, showing off the precious gems. “They remind me of the flowers in our tattoos. I’ve never seen anything like them. They’re made for you.”
I jump into his lap and tackle him on the bed, brushing his hair away from his face. My lips crash into his and my hands travel over the mountainous terrain of his chiseled body. A few tears escape my eyes as I look over to the clock. My time has run out. “They’re perfect for me, just like you.”
∞
The airport is extremely crowded today. I run to my gate just minutes before the plane starts loading passengers. Van hooks his fingers around the belt loops of my jeans and pulls me toward him. Our bodies smash together, meeting at the lips. Ah, the intense energy radiating from this passionate kiss could fuel the plane. My knees are weak and my entire body is tingling. I’m going to miss him so much; especially when I have to see everyone else with their significant other. Saturday, please get here fast! We both keep looking back at each other, waving while he walks away. He finally fades into the crowd and I continue through the gate.
Security is a nightmare. My name’s being called? Why do they want me at the front desk? Did I pack something I shouldn’t have? I bite at my lip as I approach the flight attendant.
“Alexis Waters, this is your new boarding pass. You’ve been upgraded to first class.”
I let out a deep breath and all the tension in my body releases. Wait, what did she just say? My cell phone chimes.
Just thought you should travel in style. The food in first class is great.
My mouth falls open. I blink a few times and take my new boarding passes; first the earrings, now this? I start typing into my phone.
You are definitely my Prince Charming. I’ll have to thank you Saturday ;)
I shut off my cell phone and step onto the plane. Wow! These seats are enormous! Finally, time to relax. Van will be heavily rewarded for all this pampering. Two glasses of champagne later, I recline my seat while enjoying the in-flight movie before dinner. The menu is shrimp cocktail, salad, ravioli, and cake. This is definitely the way to travel; I’m getting spoiled. My heavy eyes close. I jolt up as the flight attendant announces that we’re beginning our descent to the Atlanta airport. Just one more flight to go; I hop on a puddle jumper to the Savannah airport.
Even with the first class flight, it’s still a long day of traveling. I yawn, grab my carry on, and step out of the gate. Sydney, Brooke, and Dean wave frantically when they spot me. Sydney and Brooke run toward me, the three of us colliding in one big group hug. Dean stands shaking his head.
“I missed you so much! It’s great to have you back. I even cleaned your room so you can actually relax when we get back home to our apartment.” Brooke bounces on her toes and squeals.
Finally, I get to see my best friend again. “I had the time of my life, but nothing’s better than sleeping in your own bed.” I wince slightly. If I could only be as excited as Brooke, but being without Van for six weeks will be pure torture.
“Wait until you see the Thomas’s plantation. It’s so big we each have our own rooms. Isn’t it great? We can all stay together.” Sydney nudges my arm. “Don’t worry; you and your rocker boyfriend will still have your privacy.”
I roll my eyes. “Good, I have to find some way to thank him for upgrading me to first class.” I f
lash a devious grin.
Brooke winks at me. “Nice! Are we still allowed to go for pizza or are you too high class for us now?”
“I could go for a pizza and beer,” Dean adds.
I slap Brooke on the arm jokingly. “Let’s find a pizzeria, smart ass.”
“Sorry guys, Bryce’s parents have dinner set up for us tonight and for the rehearsal party tomorrow. Pizza and beer will have to wait until after the wedding. Lexie, when’s your boy toy getting here?” Sydney asks.
“I’ve really missed all the ball busting.” I shake my head. “Van won’t get here until Saturday morning. He has a show in Seattle on Friday night.”
Brooke gently pushes me and laughs. “Didn’t you always want to go to Seattle? Maybe he’ll bring you a T-shirt.”
I sigh. “Come on guys, it’s been a long trip. Now show me this impressive plantation.”
We pull into a huge driveway, closed off by a wrought iron gate embellished with the letter T.
My eyes travel up the black metal structure as the gates slowly open. “Wow, this is worse than the security at the airport.” We continue up to an enormous white house with a ton of windows and several large white pillars. White wooden rocking chairs sway on the huge wrap-around porch. Jeeze, am I at the white house? I gather my belongings and walk up to a sizable wooden door adorned with a heavy knocker. Sydney presses the doorbell and within seconds Cynthia Thomas greets us.
“Alexis, it’s a pleasure to see you again. Welcome to our home. I’m sure you’ll want to freshen up after your trip. Your room is the first door on the right, second floor. We’ll all meet for dinner in the dining room at five o’ clock.” Cynthia smiles and walks away.
Brooke and I just look at each other, raising our eyebrows, as we made our way upstairs.
“Charming isn’t she?” Brooke rolls her eyes.
“Sydney’s going to have a great time with her as a mother-in-law.” I shake my head.
When was the last time I’ve had dinner so early in the evening? The time change is taking its toll. Please don’t let the Thomas’s have anything else planned. I yawn and lug my bag into the room. A king-size four post bed with at least fifteen red and gold pillows covering a matching paisley comforter sits in the middle of the room. All of the wood, including the hardwood floors, is cherry. A white and gold fan hangs from the middle of the ceiling creating a soft breeze. Southern hospitality is sure living up to the hype.
My bridesmaid dress already hangs in the closet, along with my shoes. I quickly unpack and slide into gray sweatpants and my Devil’s Garden T-shirt. I step into the hallway in search of the bathroom. Sydney is standing outside the door to her room.
“Very nice, is that what you’re wearing for dinner?” Sydney looks me up and down.
“Well it will be if I don’t get a shower. Where the hell’s the bathroom?”
“Last door on the left.” She places her hand on my shoulder. “Thank you for putting up with all this crap to be my maid of honor. I know Cynthia can be a pain in the ass.”
I place my hand over hers and tilt my head. “You know I’ll do anything for you. You do realize she’ll be your mother-in-law after Saturday, right?”
“It’s a shame we’ll be living so far away.” Sydney presses her lips together, holding back a smile.
We both laugh.
Hot water trickles down my skin reviving my body. I’m always grimy after traveling. A thickness forms in my throat and my eyes start to water. What’s wrong with me? I guess my body isn’t used to this. I haven’t showered by myself in quite a while. I wrap my hair in a towel and head back to my room to get ready for dinner. Now, how can I look like a southern belle? I root through my clothes and choose a sundress with a light sweater. Perfect! It’s just about time to make my way to the dining room.
“I hope everyone’s all settled in. Mr. Thomas and I want you all to be comfortable and enjoy your stay in our home. Tonight we’ll be having buttermilk fried chicken tenders, sweet potato casserole, corn, biscuits with honey, and peach cobbler for dessert. Please bow your heads as Mr. Thomas offers a blessing and Mabel fills our glasses with sweet tea.”
Brooke lets out a slight chuckle. I squint at her and kick her under the table. She raises her eyebrow at me and bites her lip, holding back her smile. It’s going to be tough to live up to the standards of Cynthia Thomas for the next few days.
Dinner conversation is light. I’m quiet; God only knows what may be construed as offensive. Sydney and Bryce are smiling from ear to ear throughout the meal, in a complete state of bliss. They deserve every minute of it. I imagine I look the same way when I’m with Van.
“Alexis, your earrings are beautiful. Where ever did you find such exquisite jewelry?” Cynthia’s mouth opens as she touches my earrings.
“Thank you, my boyfriend bought them for me when we were in Arizona.” I tuck my hair behind my ear, exposing a perfect view of my large diamond earrings.
“Whoa, those are some rocks!” Dean says, staring at them. “What’d you have to do to get those?” He raises his eyebrows.
“Wouldn’t you like to know?” I whisper, and then roll my eyes. Guys really do have a one track mind.
First the earrings and then the first class plane ticket, Van is becoming a romantic right before my eyes. How did I get lucky enough to win his heart?
Eight o’clock and we’re still at the dinner table. Mr. Thomas tells us the history of the plantation and all about the Thomas family. Dear God, don’t let me fall asleep! This jet lag is killing me; time is again my enemy.
“We’re going out to the porch to have a few drinks, you coming?” Brooke asks, pulling my arm.
I yawn stretching my arms over my head. “Sorry, I’m beat. Pencil me in for tomorrow night.”
“It’s a date.” She hugs me and skips off to the porch.
I make my way up to my room and get ready for bed. I inhale deeply while pulling my Devil’s Garden T-shirt over my head. Adrenaline rushes through my blood. Amazing! Van’s scent is still captured in its fibers. I don’t want to call him; they’re definitely hitting a club in Seattle tonight, so I send a quick text message and shut off my phone, allowing myself to catch up on some much needed sleep.
Counting the minutes, until Saturday. Miss you.
The bright rays of sunlight warm my face, gently waking me. I open my eyes, stretch, and look at the clock. Holy crap, its noon! Wow, I really slept in today. I must’ve needed the extra rest. Luckily it did the trick. The jet lag is gone and I am back to my old self. My parents should be arriving shortly. Hmm, what am I in for? I twist my hair into a loose ponytail and quickly dress in a skirt and tank top. I head downstairs to find everyone having lunch.
“Hello Alexis. I’m sorry you missed breakfast, but please join us for lunch,” Cynthia says as she pulls out a chair for me.
My stomach hardens and tingles sweep across my face to my ears. “Thank you. It seems like the time zone change caught up with me last night.” I pat down my skirt and sit.
“Maybe it’s the party all night, sleep all day lifestyle you lead with the rock stars,” Brooke sarcastically mutters under her breath, flashing me a quick smile.
I glare at her and take a bite of a turkey sandwich.
The Thomas’s give us a tour of the plantation grounds after lunch, showing us where the wedding will take place. The aroma of thousands of flowers fills the air as a beautiful menagerie of brightly colored petals peek out through the lush green landscape. There are already several companies setting up tables and tents.
We return to the house just as my parents are stepping out of the cab.
Sydney runs up to our parents, pulling them into a bear hug. “Hey Mom and Dad! How was your flight?”
“Everything was fine sweetheart.” Mom kisses her on the cheek. “You’re absolutely glowing. Are you nervous?” Mom locks her arm with Sydney’s and Dad and Dean grab their suitcases.
“Just excited,” Sydney replies.
“Hi Mom a
nd Dad.” I give them each a quick hug. Am I an outcast? I know its Sydney’s big day, but my parents are acting as if I’m invisible.
“Where’s Van? Isn’t he coming?” Mom asks with a hint of anger in her voice.
I guess she’s still secretly hoping that he’ll screw up. Great! Let the fun begin.
“He has a show tonight in Seattle. He’ll be here in the morning,” I say, twirling my hair around my fingers.
“Good, I was hoping he isn’t letting you down already. You know how musicians can be; self-absorbed.” Her lips press into a hard line.
I let out a heavy sigh and cross my arms. Really? They haven’t even been here for fifteen minutes. I roll my eyes and walk away before the conversation escalates into an all-out battle.
“The rehearsal will start in two hours. We’ll all meet outside near the gazebo,” Mrs. Thomas shouts to everyone.
“I call dibs on the first shower.” I gather my toiletries and head to the bathroom, away from the conversation.
∞
I have some time before the rehearsal starts. There’s no way I’m heading out any earlier than necessary. I quickly dress and sit on the bed. Damn, I forgot to turn my phone back on after I woke up this morning. I power it up; it chimes.
Going crazy without you. Call me after your rehearsal tonight.
At last, something to brighten up my night! I get to talk to Van later. My body erupts into an array of tingles. Please let time fly tonight.
I glance down at my watch and mosey downstairs. It’s rehearsal time. We’re quickly instructed on the details of the ceremony. The grand ballroom of the plantation is being set up for tomorrow’s big event, so we retire to the formal dining room for tonight’s elegant five course meal.