“I need another sister-in-law. You’re like my sister already, but I need it official and on paper.” I smiled, happy that there were finally some females inside the family circle after years of dealing with the boys.
She laughed, tossing her head back, and held her stomach. “You’re more demanding than my mom,” she said, wiping the corner of her eyes.
“Hell yeah. I’ve gone too many years surrounded by testosterone. I need vadge in this family.”
Mia and I stood side by side and stared at Suzy as she fussed with her dress and checked her makeup before moving closer to the mirror.
“You look beautiful, Suzy,” I said, walking toward her.
The dress had a form-fitting bodice with a thick ribbon and a flower around the waist. The V-shaped neckline plunged just far enough to show off her chest. The bottom was comprised of loose tulle that kissed the floor and shifted when she walked. Suzy always looked amazing, but today she glowed.
“I’m so nervous. Why am I so nervous?” she asked, turning toward me and taking a deep breath.
I grabbed her hands, wanting to avoid messing up her dress. “You’re going to be fine. Everything is ready. Don’t stress.”
“What if he changes his mind?” Her eyes grew wide as she said the words.
I shook my head, my mouth set in a firm line. “You can’t be serious. My brother is so in love with you. Why would you even think that?”
“I don’t know. I feel panicked.”
I touched her forehead, thinking she had to be sick. “No fever,” I said as I removed my hand. “Calm the fuck down, Suzy. Joe loves you. I’ve never seen him so sure about anything or anyone in his life.”
She blew out a breath, touching her stomach and smoothing the fabric. “I know,” she said, looking down at the floor.
“Are you sure, though?” I asked.
“I love him,” she stated firmly.
“Is it enough?” I asked, cocking my eyebrow.
“Izzy, you’re such a Debbie Downer on love,” she said, laughing. “I can’t wait until you find ‘the one.’”
I doubled over in a fit of giggles. “You must clearly be ill. I don’t want ‘the one,’” I said, making air quotes. “I’m perfectly happy being single. The last thing I want is a ball and chain to tie my ass down.”
“Uh huh,” she said, looking in the mirror again.
“Izzy, when are you going to stop lying to yourself?” Mia interrupted.
“You two bitches need to slow your roll. I’m not the dating type, let alone the marrying kind.”
“It’s time.” Ma clapped her hands as she sang the words.
“Someone do my veil. I’m too nervous!” Suzy shrieked, shaking her hands.
“I got it,” I said, stepping in front of her and reaching behind to take the thin material. Then I placed it over her face, smoothing it to not block her vision. “Good?” I asked before moving away.
“Yes,” she replied. “It’s now or never.”
“Suzy, you two were meant for each other. I may not want it for myself, but I have no doubt there’s no one else out there for my brother.”
“You’re right, Izzy. Let’s do this crap.”
I chuckled, trying to cover my mouth. “You don’t always talk like a Gallo, but you’re one at heart.”
She giggled nervously, moving toward the door. I grabbed her short train, not wanting it to get stuck on anything. When Suzy’s father saw her, his face lit up like a Christmas tree.
“There’s my girl,” he cooed, holding out his arms.
