The Resistance(93)

“Okay, you’re forgiven. Pour the bubbly.”

The makeup artist laughs. “She’s been a nervous wreck.”

I pop the cork and pour the champagne. “You have nothing to be nervous about. You and Adam are made for each other. You’ve loved him forever. He’s loved you longer.”

A smile appears. She takes a sip, and says, “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. To a lifetime of memories with the love of your life.”

The three of us toast in unison, “Cheers.”

Twenty minutes later, I’m nervously standing outside large wooden doors waiting for them to open. The guy holding my arm is single and good looking, but my heart’s still having trouble getting over Dalton to appreciate the opportunity.

Right before the doors open, Tracy says, “Wish me luck.”

I hug her tight and whisper, “You don’t need luck. You’ve got everything you need already.”

Smiling, she steps back and takes her father’s arm.

The doors open wide, and we start walking. I want to run, not digging the attention, but the best man, Alex, holds me back from bolting, keeping the right pace. The church is pretty with its stained glass windows catching the light and reflecting the colors into the sanctuary. Tracy surprised me by keeping the list under a hundred guests. It feels more intimate. I see plenty of familiar faces when looking around, but despite the myriad of smiles and big hats, only one person stands out in the crowd—Dalton.

My mouth drops open when my eyes meet his. My heart races as all the feelings I once had for him come rushing out from that secret place where hope was hidden deep inside. Tears fill my eyes, thinking I’d lost him forever. He’s here. My emotions get the best of me when I see his gentle smile. It’s the smile that reminds me of everything good we ever shared—it’s happy with the small eye crinkles I missed so much, and my breath hitches… Hitches! I thought that was reserved for romance movies and pirate novels until now. My mind starts reeling in disbelief and I close my eyes quickly hoping when I reopen them, he’s really here. When I do, I see him again, a quiet laugh shaking his shoulders. It makes no sense for him to be here, and yet, there he is.

The best man whispers, “Keep walking.”

I hadn’t noticed I’d stopped, but I did. Nodding, I mumble, “Yes, keep walking.” My feet move me forward, but my eyes don’t leave the deep greens I’ve fallen in love with, the man who stole my heart and who despite my best efforts to reclaim it, still wholly owns it.

Just before we pass his pew, a sly grin appears then he bites his lower lip. I look toward the waiting minister, suddenly feeling guilty for having naughty thoughts in church. I start to look around at the pretty flowers and wedding decor and smile at Tracy’s family sitting in the first row. But it’s pointless. There’s no way I’m going to get that lip bite out of my head. Impossible. Jack Dalton is impossible to forget and completely irresistible. So trying to be a little devious myself, I lower my chin to my right shoulder and steal a peek at the sexiest man I’ve ever seen.

He sits alone on the bride’s side, but doesn’t go unnoticed. A few cameras and some cell phones are aimed in his direction. Unlike his usual protective self, here he’s unguarded, paying no mind to them. I like seeing him relaxed even with the attention.

Taking the bride’s bouquet when I’m supposed to, I concentrate back on my friend and her special moment as they exchange vows. Adam grabs Tracy, dipping her down, and kissing her hard. Their love fills the room and encourages applause and catcalls. They run down the aisle hand in hand and Alex grabs mine to head down after them. I keep my eyes forward, struggling not to look in Dalton’s direction because if I do, I won’t be able to look away.

Cat and mouse… or maybe cat and cat. Not sure what we’re doing, but I enjoy the game, enjoying the chase with Dalton this time. At the reception, we move in circles, keeping our distance while keeping our eyes on the other. I decide to play a little longer, enjoying the anticipation of our reunion  .

Time and perspective, becoming more aware of who I am, learning balance while in a relationship—these are the things I’ve had plenty of time to think about and discover. Dalton didn’t take over who I was. I gave myself willingly and got lost along the way. He fell in love with me, all of me, and never asked for anything other than trust in return.

For someone as famous as he is, he’s approachable here, taking photos with other guests, while being respectful of the bride and groom. Adam is mesmerized. Join the club.

After getting the bride a cocktail, we stand there looking at the party before us. “Do you hate me?” she asks.