“Well, now you have one of your own,” Andrea said softly. “Open it and see what’s inside. We hope you like it.”
With infinite care, Andrea undid the ribbon and lifted the lid off the box. “Oh, my goodness. It’s beautiful.”
The platinum bracelet with a small, blue sapphire and a red ruby was exquisite in every way imaginable.
Andrea touched the gemstones. “This is gorgeous, but I can’t accept it. I’ve looked at their website and it would’ve been expensive.”
Paris took the bracelet out of the box and placed it around Andrea’s wrist. “It was worth every cent. And if you want to feel better about accepting it, it was on sale.”
Jackie smiled. “We have great taste on a budget. The blue sapphire is for the ‘something blue’. The ruby represents love and the color you chose for your flowers and wedding decorations. We hope it reminds you of today each time you wear it.”
Andrea held out her wrist so they could both see the bracelet. “It’s gorgeous. Thank you.”
Jackie smiled. “It looks lovely. Now, let’s get your veil into place before your dad arrives.”
Checking her watch, Andrea frowned. “Whereismy dad?” she asked, worry creeping into her voice. “He should’ve been here by now.”
Jackie had everyone’s contact details on her phone, so she quickly sent Mr. Smith a text.
“Your dad said he’s on his way,” she announced after receiving a reply. “And your mom’s just left David’s house with the boys.”
“We told you everything would be okay,” Paris said, smiling encouragingly at Andrea. “And it’ll only get better. If you feel worried or overwhelmed, just remember how much David loves you and the boys.”
Nodding, Andrea took a deep, calming breath.
While Paris lifted Andrea’s veil off the hanger, Jackie gathered their emergency makeup bags off the table and picked up their shawls.
With the flick of her wrist, Paris placed the veil over Andrea’s dress and lifted it into place on her head. “Have a look in the mirror.”
Andrea sighed when she saw her reflection. “I can hardly believe it’s me.”
More tears filled Jackie’s eyes. “If David doesn’t fall instantly in love with you again, there’s something wrong.”
Taking another tissue out of the box, Paris blew her nose. “Everyone needs to take a deep breath. If we keep crying, we’ll have to redo our makeup.”
Andrea sent her friends a wobbly smile. “And we definitely don’t have time for that.” With one last look in the mirror, she collected her bouquet from the coffee table and handed Jackie and Paris theirs.
A light tap on the door made everyone jump.
“That must be dad,” Andrea whispered.
Jackie hurried across the room to open the door. Andrea’s dad was wearing a lovely charcoal-colored suit with a crisp white shirt and red tie.
“You look very handsome, Mr. Smith,” Jackie told him.
“Thank you. Andrea’s mom chose the suit for—” His words trailed off when he saw Andrea, and his eyes lit with pride. He walked over to her and gently held her hand. “Honey, you look beautiful.”
Paris stood by, smiling softly as she reached for a box of tissues.
Mr. Smith wiped away a few tears. “I can’t believe my little girl’s getting married today.” He gave Andrea’s hand a squeeze. “Are you ready?”
She nodded, her eyes shining with excitement. “I’m ready, Dad.”
He turned to Jackie and Paris. “Thank you for all your help today. I don’t know what we would’ve done without you.”
Jackie smiled. “It was our pleasure, Mr. Smith. You raised an amazing daughter, and we’re honored to be a part of her big day.”
Paris nodded. “We wouldn’t have missed it for the world.”
