‘Yay!’ cheered Benny. ‘I knew she’d say yes to today.’
Luna stood. ‘Which means, we need to get some brekkie in us all to keep our strength up for the day. It’s going to be a long one.’
‘And the best ever,’ said Benny.
Jamie knew he had taken a massive chance, but he also knew his angel. She was getting what she deserved. And just for a moment, he felt perhaps he was too.
Chapter 37
Alice
Alice couldn’t believe it. She was going to be a proper bride. Her idea of one at least. No sneaking around. No empty seats behind them. No worrying what her mother would say if she found out.
The room that she had given to Jamie when he first arrived at the B&B was now strewn with clothes and makeup and wedding flowers. Some of her friends were downstairs, the others in the room with her, faffing and making a fuss.
‘I am so glad we tried on those wedding dresses in the shop now,’ said Ginny, unzipping a large garment bag hanging on the wardrobe door. ‘And that the dressmaker knew your size from the bridesmaid fitting. Sophie got in touch with her straight away, she was that excited you were getting hitched.’
Lizzie gasped as the white satin-and-lace dress came into view. ‘Wow, that’s a beauty.’
‘It was Alice’s favourite in the shop,’ said Ginny.
‘But it cost a small fortune.’ Alice stepped towards it, finding it hard to believe it was hers.
‘Jamie sold those action figures he’d had since childhood,’ said Lizzie. ‘He wanted to give you the best day he could.’
Ginny took the dress out of the bag. ‘And we’ve added wedding cake to our Christmas dinner menu at the pub. So, we’re sorted there.’
Lizzie held Alice’s arm. ‘And there is a wedding car waiting downstairs to take you to the church.’
Alice rushed to the balcony to have a peek. ‘Oh, it’s beautiful.’
‘Vintage and cream,’ said Ginny. ‘See, this is what happens when you talk weddings at a fitting. We got to hear how we’d all like our wedding day to be.’
‘And you told Jamie.’ Alice grinned as Ginny shrugged.
‘Well, he did ask.’
Alice let out a little squeal of delight. ‘Ooh, I can’t believe this is happening.’
Ginny held the dress up to Alice. ‘I’ve never been to a renewing of vows before. Do you know what you’re going to say, chick?’
Alice stopped smiling. ‘No! I haven’t had time to eat, let alone think.’
‘Speaking of which,’ said Lizzie, bringing over a plate filled with sliced banana. She popped one in Alice’s mouth. ‘I’ll get you fed. You’ve got a big day.’
‘Yes, I’m normally in the pub by twelve, helping Robson.’
‘Well, not today, chick.’ Ginny waggled the dress hanger. ‘Come on, the others will be heading for the church in a minute. Let’s get you ready, and you can nibble on food and write your vows in your head.’
‘We have a half an hour slot.’ Alice chewed her lip. ‘Best keep it short.’
‘Did you say much last time?’ asked Ginny.
‘No. Just the usual lines. It was over within minutes, and we didn’t take photos.’
Lizzie peered out the window. ‘You’ve got a photographer this time, love. That part of the wedding is on me.’
‘Aww, thanks, Mum.’
