A mischievous grin washes over his face. “Did I ever tell you about the time?—”
I cover his mouth with my hand. “Point made, Dad.” I shiver all over. “Never share sex stories with me.”
“Agree not to have sex with your husband while rolling in the blood of dead assholes, and we have a deal.”
I giggle again. “Love you.”
“Love you too, sweetheart. So, so much.” His eyes rake over my gown again. “You look like a bona fide princess in that dress. You are stunning, Elisa. A beautiful woman, inside and out.”
I twirl in front of the mirror, admiring the way the fitted corset top molds to my curves, enhancing my natural assets.Tiny diamante embellishments are dotted over the top before it gives way to a wide satin sash, tied at the back in a bow. The skirt is full-on princess with layers upon layers of chiffon over tulle. I decided not to wear a veil so the dress speaks for itself. Instead, I’m wearing a crown as I prepare to marry my king.
My dress is the opposite of Gia’s sleek, sexy, figure-hugging gown. Gigi’s dress is also strapless but in an hourglass shape with a fishtail train. She’s wearing a long lace veil, and I can’t wait to see it on her. We had fun planning our double wedding, and we did everything together, including dress shopping and fittings. In all my childish imaginings, I never factored in a wedding with my best friend, but it couldn’t be more magical or more perfect. The twins are close, and it’s only fitting they get married together.
“It’s time,” Mom says, slipping into the room. She had just ducked out to ensure all the guests were seated. We’re getting married at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and a bishop is conducting our joint ceremony. It truly is a fairy tale come to life. Over three hundred friends and family members are seated in pews outside, awaiting the brides.
“You and Gia will be the talk of the town,” Mom says as more tears well in her eyes. The makeup artist has already had to fix her up twice.
“No more crying, Mom. Ria doesn’t have time to fix up your makeup again.”
“I’m just bursting with happiness for you, Elisa.”
“So smile. Don’t cry.” I laugh as I pull her into a hug.
Out in the hallway, we meet Gia and Rico. I hold hands with my best friend as we make our way toward the main part of the cathedral.
“I’m so happy we did this together,” Gigi says as we walk side by side talking in hushed voices. Our fathers are conversing quietly behind us.
“It makes it all the more special, sister.”
Tears stab her eyes. “In so many ways.” Her face is aglow, and her lips look ready to burst with whatever secret she’s holding back.
“Spill it, sis.”
“I’m pregnant,” she whispers in my ear.
I slam to a halt, staring at her in shock.
“Is everything okay,” Rico asks.
“Yes.” Gia warns me with her eyes not to say anything. She loops her arm in mine and pulls me forward. “You really need to work on your poker face, Lise.”
“It’s not that.” My heart swells behind my chest. I look at her and mouth, “I’m pregnant too.”
This time, it’s her turn to stop. “Get out!”
“Girls, what’s going on?” Dad asks.
“Nothing,” we say in unison, sporting matching grins. We lean in to one another, whispering as we walk toward the entrance doors.
“Does J know?” I whisper. She shakes her head, and I giggle. “It’s your wedding gift too?” She nods, and I giggle again. We’re so in sync.
“How far along are you?” she whispers.
“Seven weeks.”
“Oh my gawd.” She’s practically bouncing. “I’m eight weeks.”
Happy tears fill my eyes. “We’ll be pregnant together, and our kids will be cousins and best friends.”
