“Second Saturday in September,” I said, as I grappled with the corkscrew.
“Brilliant,” Ryan said. “Any ideas on a venue.”
“We’ve made a shortlist,” I replied. “Although we need to properly check them out. Make sure they’re as good as they appear on their websites.”
My sister gave us both a big smile. “Youaregetting organised.”
“Actually,” I said. “We were hoping you’d make our wedding cake?”
Sal squealed. “You bet I will. Have you got any designs in mind? It doesn’t matter if you don’t, I’m sure between us we’ll come up with something fabulous.”
I knew Sal would be happy we’d asked but considering she didn’t believe in marriage her excitement came as a surprise. “Also…” I screwed up my face in anticipation. With Abbey and Chloe having to step aside, I didn’t think I could face another disappointment. “If you’d be our matron of honour?”
Sal looked back at me, as if not sure what to say.
“It’s okay if you don’t want to,” Leo said. “We respect your views. We just thought we’d give you the choice.”
“Duh, of course I’ll do it.”
“You will?” I asked.
Sal grinned. “Marriage might not be for me, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be a part of yours.”
“You don’t need time to think about it?”
My sister scoffed. “What is there to think about?”
Astounded by how easy that was, I shook my head, before turning to my niece. “And, India,” I said, with a smile, “we thought you might like to be bridesmaid?”
India’s hand flew up and she flipped her veil back.
My smile vanished.
She stared at me, her expression blank. “Why?”
As I stared at her, it was a question I found myself asking. India’s face was covered in white powder, and she wore smudged mascara and smeared red lipstick. Together with the black, her whole ensemble looked horrific and wondering what was wrong with the girl, I wished I hadn’t opened my mouth. Lost for words, I looked to Leo for assistance.
“Well, you seem to have nailed the funeral market,” he said, matter of fact. “Why not branch out into weddings?”
“So, you’re saying I’ll get paid?”
Sal glanced my way, her face full of sympathy. “I’m sorry,” she mouthed.
“I’m sure we can work something out,” Leo said.
“Okay,” India replied. “I’ll let you know my terms and conditions nearer the time.”
Great!I thought, as I listened to them. On the one hand, I had a niece demanding money before she’d even consider taking part in my wedding. While on the other, I had a mother who couldn’t help herself and was aiming for wedding of the year.
“Yoo hoo!” Mum called out.
As I continued to question what was wrong with my family, I braced myself in readiness of yet more madness.
Chapter 14
“It’s only us.” Sounding my parents’ arrival with her usual greeting, Mum scanned the room as the two of them entered. Her expression froze as her eyes settled on India. She put a hand up to stop anyone who might speak. “Don’t tell me. I don’t want to know.” She turned to Dad who, in contrast, stood there chuckling at the sight of his granddaughter.
The rest of us tried not to laugh as Mum took a moment to compose herself. “So, what is it this time?” she finally asked.
