"Greyson, open up." The knock on my changing room door from my mother made me cringe.
Without moving to open the door, I decided it was time to put my foot down. "This is hopeless, mother. Please don't make me try on any more today. I can't take this much longer, and all I've learned is that I will end up showing up to my wedding in sweats."
"Don't joke around like that, Greyson! We booked a beautiful church, it's magnificent. And my daughter will take everyone's breath away if it is the last thing I do! Now please don't lose hope, I have one more for you."
"One more, that's it. I promise not to walk down the aisle in jammies, but you need to let me take a breath."
"Alright, I promise you, sweetheart. Last one, and if we have to we'll just do a little more research next time."
As much as I didn't want to, I caved to her wishes because not only did I love my persistent, sometimes draining mother. I truly did want to find that beautiful dress that made Richard's heart melt. It wasn't even a question in my mind that he would look impeccable that day. Not only was it easier for men to find a tux, but he was naturally an incredibly gorgeous man. That picture of him standing at the alter with that beaming smile, was all I needed to open the door and shimmy into one more gown.
It wasn't the right size, but as Polly smoothed out the satin material she assured me that alterations would be taken, and it wouldn't be an issue. I had gotten into the habit of not even bothering to examine myself in the individual mirror anymore. There was a large wall that separated the rooms from the waiting area, and that entire wall was one big mirror. The dress itself was a strapless style with a bit of jewels, giving just a bit of sparkle to the top of the gown. It was fitted at the top until reaching my hips, and then became a fuller skirt, with little sections ruched up to add more dimension.
Wearing it without actually seeing myself in it, I was still able to get a feeling about it and I knew this was by far the best of the fifty I had tried on. My fingers carefully lifted the front of the dress, making sure I didn't trip and ruin it. The moment I turned the corner I knew this could truly be the one. All of their faces lit up. There were smiles, approving nods, and then my mother stood up, clasping her hands together.
"I knew we would find it!"
"Now wait a minute, ma. Grey looks absolutely beautiful, but she has to say which dress is thee one." Jayden said, in my defense.
I gave him a smile as the consultant offered her hand to help me onto the raised platform.
"It's absolutely gorgeous, Grey!" Kari squealed.
Kacie nodded, taking in the entirety of the dress. "Seriously, you look stunning."
"You really do, honey." My mother chimed in. "This is so perfect, I can just picture that day now. This dress not only compliments you, but it will greatly compliment Richard as well."
"What do you think, Grey?" Jayden brought constant focus back to me, and I knew I'd need to remember to thank him later. Aside from knowing this was a beautiful dress, I wasn't sure how it looked on me and I was already sold on getting it. Maybe because I just wanted the shopping to end, or because I honestly just didn't know what I wanted.
"I actually haven't looked yet." With that I turned around, examining my reflection.
I was speechless.
The gown was absolutely stunning. Turning from one side to another I took in every angle. The fitted top accentuated my full chest, and natural curves showing just a hint of a sex appeal. Then the way the full skirt hung, showed the elegance of the look. My mother hit it on the nail, it complimented me nicely, but it was the perfect look for Richard. The man was traditional, classy, and loved beautiful sophistication. This dress was all of that wrapped into one perfect satin design. Despite the fact that it was a style I never pictured myself in, I knew it was the only one I could marry Richard in.
As I was turning around with a grin on my face to tell them I had found my dress, something caught my eye. Hanging on a rack nearby was the most breathtaking thing I had ever seen. Something about it had captured my attention, and now I couldn't look away. When I saw the incredibly stunning lacy bodice and soft tulle skirt with little lace flowers all over. I realized for the first time, I knew what dress I wanted.
I heard the others talking, asking questions, but none of them sunk in.
"What's that?" I asked Polly, pointing to the rack.
"What's what?" She asked.
"That dress, is that one available?" I tore my eyes from it, looking to her. She saw which one I was motioning to, and a smile broke out across her face.