“Bryn,” Allie called. “You’re up next with the makeup artist.”
“Thanks.” I pocketed my phone.
Allie wrapped her arms around me from behind, and I laughed. I heard the click of a camera shutter. The photographer had been buzzing around, discreetly trying to snap some candid shots of the bridal party and my mom getting ready together.
“I’ve missed you,” Allie said.
“Same.” I turned to face her. “Actually, I have a conference in Boston this fall. I might be able to come a few days early on the front end and hang out if you’re free.”
“I’m free!”
I laughed. “You haven’t even checked your calendar.”
“Don’t need to.” She grinned. “If you’re coming to visit, I’ll make sure I’m available. The wedding has been fun, but I feel like I’ve barely seen you.” She pouted.
“It’s been a whirlwind, for sure.”
“I know, but I’m so glad you’re here,” Allie said. “I can’t tell you how much it means to me. And I’m glad you brought Frasier.” She seemed to hesitate.
I tilted my head, sensing there was something more she wanted to say. “What?”
“When he’s around, you just… Well, I can see how happy you are.”
I was happy. But this happiness also felt…fragile and fleeting. Part of me was terrified something would come along and ruin it.
“And I know you’re taking it slow,” Allie continued. “But I know you, Bryn. And you wouldn’t have jeopardized your friendship with Frasier unless you thought it was worth the risk.”
“I…” I blinked a few times, stunned by how insightful Allie was. I wasn’t even sure I’d consciously had that thought until she voiced it aloud. “Yeah.” I swallowed hard, thinking of last night and the line Frasier and I had crossed. “You’re right. It was a big risk. He’s one of the most important people in my life.”
This wasn’t a vacation fling—at least not for me. And I didn’t think it was for Frasier either. It was something we’d need to discuss at some point. But for now, I was content to just enjoy.
Allie’s expression softened. “I’m delighted for you. Truly. You deserve to be happy again.”
I pulled her into a hug. “Thanks, Al.”
When I released her, she said, “I hope I’m not being insensitive by asking this. And you can totally tell me to fuck off if you don’t want to answer. But do you think… Could you ever see getting…”
“Can I see myself getting married again?” I asked, and she nodded. “I think it’s a little too soon to jump to that,” I said, though I was surprised to find I wasn’t as quick to rule out the possibility as I would’ve been in the past.
After Derek had died, I’d been convinced that I’d had my one and only love story. But now… I found that I was more open to the idea of a relationship. Of love. Maybe not marriage, but maybe I didn’t have to rule it out either.
The future was undecided, and it was up to me to embrace it.
“Well, yeah,” Allie laughed, seeming relieved. “You haven’t even slept together. You definitely need to make sure he’s goodin bed before you shackle yourself to him. Though…how could he not be? That would be a crime.” She looked horrified at the mere idea.
My cheeks heated at the memory of last night. His hands on my body. His mouth exploring me. The feel of him inside me, filling me.
“Wait. Wait!” Allie’s eyes widened. “No way. Did you guys have sex?” When I nodded, she squealed. “Shut up!”
I laughed. Fortunately, before Allie could press me on it, the wedding planner approached with some questions.
“I want to hear the details,” Allie said, pointing at me before she turned and walked away.
I sank down into the makeup artist’s chair, chatting with them and my mom as I got my makeup done. It was relaxing, and it was nice to spend time with my mom. She’d been so busy helping Allie plan the wedding that we hadn’t gotten to see each other in person as much as we usually did.
A light lunch was delivered, and the flower girl and her mom arrived to get ready. Brooke was excited, chatting happily with everyone. I hung out with her while she got her hair done, and we had an enlightening and entertaining conversation about unicorns and other mythical creatures.
Finally, it was almost time for the ceremony. Most of us were ready, apart from putting on our dresses, and the atmosphere was ebullient.
