We blink at her. I’m shocked by the question, until I consider her words further.
“I thought it would be a nightmare. But it was so easy. They shared the expense and we highlighted their individual tastes as well as the things they chose together. I know I’d be okay with it. But I completely understand if you guys would feel it would take away from your special moment. It was only an idea.”
The room is suddenly so quiet you can hear a pin drop. My gaze jumps between my three tablemates. I can’t read what they’re thinking. As much as I actually like the idea, I’m hesitant to announce I’m onboard. The last thing I’d want to do is goad someone else into it for fear they’d be the only hold out.
Yet, I don’t have to consider this long before Ellie and Addison blurt, “Yes.”
The four of us lean forward like we’re in on a big secret. “Tuesday, I absolutely love this idea.” Addison’s cheeks are aglow with enthusiasm. “I have been putting off wedding planning because it’s hard enough to keep up with my business as it is. How on earth was I going to juggle devising wedding details. And there’s no way I’m leaving it to Trevor. Our wedding would be the equivalent of a kegger.”
Unable to contain the snort that escapes me, I throw my head back and wrap my arms across me at the thought. “Well Jason would probably hire shotgun Sam to plan ours.”
Ellie nearly chokes on her water. “Oh my god, Quinn. I never thought about that. Matt would sign up for that one too.”
“Look, my family has already accepted that I walk to the beat of a different drummer. After telling them I had no interest in medical school and packing my bags to shack up with my boyfriend in a little mountain town where I sell flowers, they won’t be a bit surprised by my sharing the big day with my friends.”
We all turn to look at Addison.
“Oh my God. I gave up worrying about my hoity-toity mother long ago. I think she’d be shocked if Trevor and I didn’t elope. I’ll simply tell her in great detail it is going to be like a big backyard party and wait for her to politely decline.”
“Oh, Addy. Are you sure?”
“I’ve never been more sure of anything. They’ve never supported me in anything that truly matters. If they honesty want to be here, I’m thrilled for them to join us. But I’ll make it abundantly clear that my wedding isn’t the place to start giving a hoot about me.”
My heart hurts at her statement. How awful they’ve been to her. And she’s honestly one of the kindest most genuine people I’ve ever met.
“Heck, Trev will hate it. But I’ll offer to let Mom throw a small reception at their house after we’re married.”
Ellie nods. “That seems like a fair compromise.” It’s in this moment I remember Ellie doesn’t have any family left to speak of. Her grandmother and grandfather had raised her, both now departed. This makes the idea of doing a group wedding even more appealing. I’d hate the thought of her feeling alone on her special day.
“Well, I feel like I need to talk to Jason about it before I commit. But can’t imagine he’d have an issue with it.”
A chorus of “Same,” rings out around me.
Addy bounces in her seat, rubbing her hands together in excitement. “Gah. Let’s do this!”
Chapter 10
The Big Day
Addy
Looking at myself in the full length mirror, I can’t hold back my tears.
“Now stop that. Not that you need any makeup, but we don’t need any raccoon eyes on your wedding day.” Cece gives me a wink over my shoulder before wrapping her arms around me. “You look stunning, Addy. I’m so happy for you.”
“Me too.” I sniffle.
My eyes drift over my gown and I feel instantly fortunate for the years of modeling. It finally gave back after all of the years feeling as if I was that prized cow on display.
This dress wasn’t what I’d envisioned in my youth. Yet, who knew I’d settle in to small town life in Sycamore Mountain back then. Sure, the four of us agreed we were going to have our heart’s desires on our big day. Dresses, food, décor… there was no holding back. But the high fashion gowns no longer felt like me. This Carolina Herrara blush colored A-line sleeveless gown had a deep V neckline that was the most flattering of all of the dresses I tried on. It was embellished in tiny iridescent gemstones along the bodice. It was playful and fun. Just like Trevor and me. After the years of modeling stuffy couture gowns, this simply felt right.
“I would’ve never picked this for you. But it’s absolutely perfect,” Cece said with tears in her eyes.
“Stop that. Who’s going to have raccoon eyes now?”
Cece waves her hand through the air. “I’m good.” Sniff. “So, tell me how this is going to work, again. Are you all saying your vows together?”
“No, nothing like that. Although we talked about it. We were just worried it would feel too much like an assembly line. Do you take this man? And you? And you?” I giggle. “So, Quinn had the thought that we would each have a more personal moment for the wedding and first dance, then share the reception.”
