No Engagement Ring

by Julie Sewcharan

  When Hannah walked out of the school grounds, her parents and brother were waiting for her. “Mum, dad, Ben!” she squealed with delight, hugging them in turn with a tight squeeze. “I thought you guys were only coming tomorrow.”

  “Your mother twisted our arm,” Aaron teased.

  Her mother gave him a playful punch on the arm. “I was done sooner with what I needed to get done so we came a day earlier. Fortunately, the guest house was able to put us up for the extra night.”

  “And off course since I was done with my exams, they insisted there was no point in waiting until tomorrow,” Ben interjected with mock regret.

  “It's so good to see you, brother,” Hannah gave him another squeeze.

  “Deb said that we could meet her at Kate's Kitchen,” Aaron said. “Are you okay to go straight there or do you need to go home first?”

  “Straight there is fine,” Hannah acquiesced.

  “Let's go then. Ben can drive,” Aaron ordered. Unlike Hannah, Ben was eager to drive.

  Half an hour later, Deb arrived while Hannah was catching up on Ben’s studies. Her parents and brother were ecstatic when they saw Deb. They could not get enough of her. Hannah suddenly realised how tough it must be on her parents having both daughters away from home; one extremely far away. But they never showed it.

  The family enjoyed each other's company as well as the food. It was quite late when Aaron dropped his two daughters off with a promise to see them tomorrow. Surprisingly, the Garricks were awake still and came out to greet Hannah's parents and meet her brother. They insisted that they do tea in the morning at the Garricks home. Aaron accepted graciously.

  “Deb, I did something foolish yesterday,” Hannah confessed as soon as they got into the cottage. Deb looked at her with narrowed eyes. “I told Jonathan I don' know if I am ready for marriage and now he thinks I am wanting to cancel.” Hannah refused to look at her sister.

  “Dearest sister,” Deb said with understanding. “That was foolish. However, when he sees you walking down the aisle, he will no longer doubt your decision.”

  “Do you think so?” Hannah was still clouded in doubt.

  “Definitely!” Deb stated firmly. “Now don't think too much on it. We have only one more day together. Actually only half with you at school for half of it. Let's spend it with happy moments. We are going shopping tomorrow.”

  “Shopping? What do I need now?”

  “Nothing! It's just a fun thing to do together and it will get you less stressed about the wedding.”

  Reluctantly Hannah agreed, regretting that she would not see Jonathan until the wedding; if he pitched. She didn't sleep too well that night, dreaming that he didn't arrive at the wedding and her worst fear was realised – she would be left standing at the altar! Fortunately, her restlessness didn't wake Deb and the next morning she was glad Deb was still asleep when she left for school. She didn't fancy sharing her nightmare with her sister.

  There was much joy and excitement when the school bell rang for the last time that year and it went off earlier than normal. The holidays had begun! Most will leave early. Only the after care staff and pupils remained.

  Ben was waiting for her with Deb outside the church grounds when she walked out. They were all three going to the mall to spend the afternoon. She was glad they were all three together again. After tea with the Garricks, her parents had opted to stay at the guest house and give the siblings a chance to catch up.

  Indeed it was fun! Hannah thought as she got into bed that night. Exhausted, she slept well, all anxieties and worry set aside. When she got up in the morning, however, panic set in.

  “It's my wedding day!” she gasped.

  “That's what it said on the invitation,” Deb stated amused.

  “I feel queasy,” Hannah declared.

  “Bridal nerves,” Deb said soothingly. “Here I made you some herbal tea. It should calm you down.”

  Hannah took the cup gratefully and sipped while Deb laid out their plans for what they would be doing before they had to be at the venue.

  “Your appointment at the hairdresser is at two, make up at two thirty and dressing up from three. That will give us enough time to get to the venue.”

  Hannah groaned and dove deeper under the covers. “I have to do all of that?”

  “Naturally! Did you think you would just pitch up at the venue in your jeans with unkempt hair and looking dowdy?”

  Hannah groaned again. She hated being subjected to the hands of others. However, she wanted to look beautiful for Jonathan so she resigned herself to the treatment. She wished she could see him even for just a moment. He was always so reassuring and right now she needed his strength.

  You only need My strength, Hannah, Jesus said so calmly that Hannah wondered if she heard it or wished so hard that she thought she heard.

  “A good breakfast is what you need,” Deb said wisely, cutting into her thoughts.

  “I don't think I could eat much,” Hannah protested.

  “Fine! But you have to eat something.”

  Hannah obeyed and after brushing her teeth, she managed to get some toast down. Emily came to check on her. “How are things getting on here?” she asked excitedly.

  “Jitters,” Deb smiled. “But otherwise all on track.”

  Wisely, Emily prayed with them before leaving. Hannah needed the prayer and she calmed down by the time they had to leave. Lunch with the rest of her family, at the mall before attending to the necessary treatments, was a welcome blessing.

  It was soothing to spend some time with her family. “You look good, darling!” her mother said pleased. “I am glad there are no bags under your eyes.” She laughed.

  “Do brides usually have bags under their eyes?” Ben asked curiously.

  Both Aaron and Elizabeth laughed. “I have seen many a bride who had sleepless nights before their wedding day. I don't actually know why they spend the entire night worrying about the wedding which they want to look good at and then have bags under their eyes.” He shook his head.

  “At least dad won't laugh at you, sis,” Ben said pursing his lips.

  Hannah didn't really find that funny but didn't comment. At that moment, her mind was preoccupied with thoughts about Jonathan.

  Simultaneously, Jonathan was thinking about her. It was only three hours before their wedding; a wedding he hoped was going to take place. Disappointed though he was that she had voiced her feeling, he knew he could not fault her for thinking along those lines.

  Understandably, she was overwhelmed and seeing her new home must have made it all the more difficult. Perhaps his mother should have waited. Either way, he was not sure if she was having second thoughts. Not seeing her since then, was not helping either.

  Maybe she wants to make sure she isn't the one left standing at the alter, the Voice said so quietly, it took him a while to fathom.

  Wrapped up in his own disappointment, he had not thought of what she would be going through, having been disappointed herself. He had been selfish! He prayed now for both him and Hannah. Even though, he wanted her as his wife, he was prepared to let her go if she so wished it. But he would be there. Whatever took place today, he knew it was all in God's hand and if God can part the Red Sea, then He could pretty much do whatever He liked. He, Jonathan had to obey the voice of God rather than worry about things out of his control.

  At five to four, Hannah arrived at the venue. Looking out the window, she gasped at the beauty of the transformed garden. Decorated exactly the way she pictured it should be, Hannah was awed.

  “It's time, baby,” her mother said from outside the window.

  Hannah nodded, as her father opened the door for her. “You look beautiful, sweetheart,” Aaron said, his eyes moist as he took in the locks of hair swept up into a chic style making her face more clear, her high cheekbones more prominent. Her make up was minimum and expertly done, looking natural and not overdone. With flawless skin, she needed no foundation. She certainly was a picture of beau
ty.

  “Oh, daddy, please don't cry,” she implored.

  “Me, cry? Never!” he said jovially making her laugh.

  Deb gave the two an impatient stare. “Mum and Ben are already seated,” she stated. “You two need to get in line or the groom will think you are not coming.”

  Although, Deb meant it as a joke, Hannah jerked into action. She scanned the area for Jonathan and when she saw him waiting in front of the minister, her heart leapt with joy. He was there! Looking handsome in his tuxedo.

  The steps she took to the sound of the wedding march, were far too slow. She was impatient to reach him but she couldn't very well pull her father along. Instead, she focussed her eyes on Jonathan as if he would disappear if she shifted her gaze.

  Jonathan turned when the march began and breathed a sigh of relief. She was here! Was she still in doubt though? He couldn't tell from so far. It was taking forever for her to get to him. He needed to look into her eyes and see whether this was what she wanted. Maybe she was going through the motions. He didn't know; he didn't know.

  Finally, she was at the front. Then her father was handing her to him. The veil was so very concealing, he could not tell a thing. But he thought he saw her smile at him.

  The minister began. Their ceremony was on the way. Hannah was half listening. Jonathan looked so uncertain. She tried to smile reassuringly but he didn't seem to take note. She needed to prove to him that she wanted this marriage as much as he did.

  When it was time to say their vows, she knew that this was how she could prove it to him and with clarity, determination and a strong voice, she pronounced each vow.

  Pastor Michael said with gusto, “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

  Amidst the clapping, Jonathan lifted her veil but before he did the bidding of the minister, he looked into her eyes and as their eyes locked, they were both comforted in what they saw.

  Hannah, saw the love Jonathan had for her and Jonathan saw the commitment in Hannah's. A smile of gratitude lit his face and even though he kissed her briefly on the lips, Hannah felt his heart touch hers.

  Soon they were signing the marriage register. They were Mr and Mrs Chandler. Then everyone was congratulating them and having a ball of time in the garden, celebrating their legal union.

  With everyone mingling, Hannah managed to get Jonathan alone for a moment. “It's really happened,” she said breathlessly. “We're married! I should never have doubted you.” Her eyes begged for forgiveness.

  “Nor I you,” Jonathan said with a smile kissing the top of her head. He looked happy.

  “You had doubts that I would be here?” she asked surprised.

  “Up until I saw you walk down the aisle.”

  “I am so sorry, Jonathan. I never meant to cause any doubt. I have never felt so certain about anything in my life like I felt about marrying you.”

  “I forgive you since you are looking so breathtakingly beautiful,” he stroked her cheek, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

  Hannah was mesmerised by that look and she stared at him, longing for him to kiss her. They were married now and the promise had become void. Alas, it was not meant to happen then. Once again they were crowded by the family.

  Since Jonathan's siblings only arrived yesterday, Hannah had not met them yet. Therefore, they were impatient to introduce themselves and their families. Hannah was whirled away from Jonathan but she didn't mind. They would have plenty of time together after the wedding! She was enjoying getting to know his family, while Jonathan was getting to know hers. She took to Paul's children immediately as did they to her. The four year old was a boy and the two year old a girl. Both of them were beautiful as was Paul's wife, Kayla.

  Everyone in Jonathan's family was good looking and Ruth was no exception. She was also delightfully friendly and so was her husband, Edward. They were both so companionable that it took the strain off Hannah.

  There wasn't enough time to chat though as the photographer wanted to get enough pictures before the light faded. Never before had Hannah posed for so many photographs but her sense of euphoria blocked any self consciousness. It was quite a while before they could leave for the reception.

  On the ride to the restaurant, she put her head on Jonathan's shoulder, content to be there. His arm came around her. “Are you tired?” he asked gently.

  “No, I had a good sleep last night, thanks to my sister.”

  He laughed. “You must be the only bride to have gotten a good night's sleep.”

  “Funny, that's what my dad also said. You ministers!” she reprimanded lightly. He chuckled. As did Derrick and Emily.

  The restaurant where the reception was being held had a private room. It was smartly decorated for the reception; all compliments of the owners. Hannah made a mental note to personally thank them.

  Formalities were handled by Jonathan's friend which didn't take very long and soon the guests were enjoying their meal and fellowship. It was a time for Hannah to get to know the people who were strangers to her.

  Chapter 24

  Hannah had not had so much fun as she was having now. Everyone was comfortable with each other putting Hannah at total ease. She was particularly intrigued by Jonathan's friends. Graham, the MC and the best man was also his best friend. Together with his wife, Whitney, they were charming and friendly.

  “I can't believe this man kept you a secret, even from me,” Graham laughed.

  “Maybe because she is so gorgeous!” Whitney stated causing Hannah to blush. “We really should get together for a weekend,” Whitney continued. “In that way, we'll get to know each other better.” The last statement was directed at Hannah

  “Yes, we certainly must. Off course with your busy schedule, I wonder when that will be,” Jonathan laughed knowingly.

  The two men began talking about their schedules while Whitney engaged Hannah in conversation. “I heard your dad is also a pastor,” Whitney began.

  Hannah was grateful for the other woman's intuitiveness. Younger than them by a good few years, Hannah was not sure she fitted in but Whitney was determined to draw her into the group. Hannah was glad to furnish information pertaining to those around her.

  Suddenly the conversation switched to her and Jonathan. “I have never seen him look so happy,” Whitney commented pleased.

  “Really?” Hannah doubted that.

  “Yes, really. Since his divorce, he has not looked at another woman and we were certain that he was going to remain single. Therefore, it was a huge surprise when we got the invitation. A pleasant surprise, mind you. We had no clue he was even seeing anyone.” Whitney smiled happily.

  “We didn't want to make it public knowledge,” Hannah said lamely.

  “Always the considerate one! Probably didn't want to overwhelm you. For the years we have known him, I can tell you he is truly an anointed man of God.” Whitney's voice held awe.

  “I gathered that too,” Hannah agreed just as awed.

  “You do realise you are going to be the envy of every single woman now, don't you?” Whitney teased.

  “Oh, no!” Hannah said in mock despair. “Is it too late to run? Or maybe I could lock myself in a tower away from the world.” Whitney burst out laughing.

  “What's so funny ladies?” Graham asked with a blank look.

  “I was telling Hannah that she is going to receive some very stiff looks from all the single ladies at Gateway Eternal, and she is thinking of becoming Rapunzel.” Whitney's voice was still laced with laughter.

  Not expecting Whitney to divulge their joke, Hannah blushed. She was not used to getting laughs at her wit and wasn't sure how to handle it. Jonathan caressed her hand.

  “Oh, yeah! Did your husband tell about his fan club?” Graham teased.

  “Guys! Please don't scare my wife with untruths,” Jonathan moaned.

  “We do not tell untruths,” Whitney said with mock hurt. “He has had women chasing him from school days,” she continued unashamedly.
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br />   “I believe you,” Hannah said, her eyes full of mirth at the recollection of the nurse at the hospital. “Any advise how to handle it?” She had a twinkle in her eye.

  They bowled over with laughter as they all tried to talk at the same time. Jonathan trying to cut their teasing was getting nowhere until Deb came to his rescue.

  “I think it is time to have the opening dance,” she announced.

  “Dance?” Hannah asked fearfully. Pulling Deb aside, she whispered, “I don't know how to dance and we have not practised any dancing.”

  “I did give you fair warning on Tuesday,” Deb said mercilessly. “Besides, you just need to follow your husband's lead.”

  “She's right you know,” Jonathan said encouragingly holding out his hand to her. “Just follow my lead.”

  Unable to do anything else, she followed him. If she was surprised that he was willing to dance, she was bowled over by his prowess in dancing. He really did make her look good on the dance floor.

  “You are a superb dancer,” she said admiringly.

  “I'm not superman for nothing,” he teased. She laughed forgetting her discomfort. It was easy to follow him. She was actually sorry when it was over. She felt safe, comforted, in his arms so much so that she had become oblivious to her surroundings. When the music stopped, she was surprised that others were dancing too.

  “Oh!” she said disappointed that it was over.

  “Enjoying it?” Jonathan teased.

  She nodded her head soberly. “I had no idea dancing was enjoyable.”

  “It most certainly is. It is also what God enjoys doing with us,” Jonathan informed.

  “He does?” Hannah was surprised. Being too self conscious, she had never wanted to dance. As well as always being averse to embracing people outside of her family.

  “Yes, He certainly does!” Jonathan was amused. For someone who loved music, he was surprised she had not danced before. But then, physical touch was not her love language; it was his. Hers, he learnt was words of affirmation. That she let him touch her, was a miracle. “We could dance some more if you want,” he offered.