“I just haven’t felt that from you in a long time.”
“I don’t believe in coddling.”
“No, you don’t,” I say sourly, “but that doesn’t mean you have to be so cold. I mean, take a look around. Grant’s getting married today, and have you been happy for him for a second?”
My words must strike a chord because my mother takes a step back. For the first time in my life, she seems lost for words.
“I suppose I could do better.”
“That’s all I’m asking for. That’s all any of us are asking for. For you to try. Because if you don’t, you’re going to lose us. All of us. And then what’s going to be left for you?”
I let her sit with her thoughts as I find a seat beside Vanessa. Adrian is sitting on a stool at the front, strumming an acoustic guitar, playing a rendition of “Flightless Bird, American Mouth.” All eyes focus on Meredith as she makes her descent down the aisle, her aunt by her side, smiling with every step. And as much as I try to give her my full attention, I can’t help but get distracted by Mira, who is huddled in the aisleway, standing so close beside me I can smell her shampoo. She stands there, eyes glued to her camera, as she swings back and forth, capturing both Grant’s reaction to his bride and Meredith’s unbridled joy.
Throughout the twenty-minute ceremony, Mira races from one side to the other, squatting down to capture the hand-fasting ceremony, and zooming to the front to catch a tear on my mother’s face. She’s completely in the zone, and I imagine this is how doctors spring into action when a patient is rushed through the door. She doesn’t miss a single moment.
I sit and listen to the officiant share stories of Grant and Meredith’s first date, the first time they said I love you, the moment they knew there was no one else in the world for each other. And with everything out in the open, their story feels lighter, more genuine, and I too find myself getting swept up in emotion.
I think back to my own firsts with Mira. The first time I saw her with sad eyes and a guarded exterior, the first time I got her to laugh at a corny joke, the first time she texted me and I swore I’d never go a moment without my phone, the first time she stayed past closing, keeping me company as we dried glasses together because neither of us wanted to go home without the other. I think of how many more firsts are to come, and I can’t wait to have them with her.
37 Mira
Tonight, the Majestic Ranch is truly living up to its namesake, as the reception tent glows on the main lawn. Brass candlesticks line the tables, and hundreds of wildflowers create a dizzying array of color across long linen drapery. White roses sit at the end of each table, creeping up the sides, as the setting sun reflects off golden plates. The tent is lined with twinkling lights, making it shimmer like the stars above.
Meredith and Grant sit at the top table in two rattan chairs behind an intimate sweetheart table. Music plays through the sound system, and I start snapping photos of all the details.
“I helped with the centerpieces,” Hudson boasts, as I move to photograph the arrangement.
“Guess I’m going to have to add ‘floral designer’ to your ever-growing list of hidden talents,” I reply.
Vivianne appears, giving me a squeeze. “You were so great out there,” she says with a warm smile, fanning herself with a yellow paper fan.
“Wait until you see the photos before you dole out the compliments,” I reason.
“I’m sure they’re going to be wonderful. Everything you’ve ever done has been a masterpiece.”
“You’ve seen my work?”
“Oh yeah. Meredith would send me shots you took in college and a few on your socials. It’s truly breathtaking stuff. I’m so thankful that you were able to come out here for this.”
“It was my pleasure,” I reply honestly, and Amelia directs our attention to the newlyweds as they share their first dance. I follow them with my camera, catching every dip and turn and starry-eyed kiss before the song ends and they head straight to the cake table, honoring Meredith’s mantra ofAlways eat dessert first.
The three-tiered vegan masterpiece does resemble their dog Rocco. They cut into it, respectfully feeding each other from silver forks. Once they sit down, large platters of food are placed onto each table, as guests pass around entrées. Hudson pulls a chair out for me and it’s not until I settle into my seat that I see a place card with my name on it and gratitude washes over me.
“I got you a drink,” Hudson says, handing me a glass tumbler, and I instantly recognize it as my favorite: a whiskey sour.
“Don’t worry, I didn’t make this one,” he assures me as I take a sip. It’s absolutely delicious.
“This might be better than Lilah’s.”
“Never say that to her, or you’ll be back to wishing I was making your drinks,” he says, rubbing his hand along my back. It’s such a subtle movement, but the fact we can finally be open about our relationship fills me with pure elation.
“You two are so damn cute,” Meredith says, coming up behind us, draping her arms over my shoulders for a hug. Grant’s standing beside her, sharing a handshake with Hudson as he offers him his congratulations.
“What else is left on the agenda for tonight?” I ask, pulling out my camera, but Meredith swats me away.
“You’ve captured all the major moments.”
“Yeah, but your contract is for another couple of hours and—”
