Only then will I get to face reality.
So I quickly glance at the intimate courtyard where the ceremony will be taking place. Unsurprisingly, the floral arch is secured and breathtaking, the guest book is in position, and the gift table and programs look magnificent.
Perfect.
As determined as I am to find that snafu, though, I’ve got to admit I’m pleased that everything looks amazing, so I snap a few photos forThe DivorcétanteChronicles—which I’m keeping just as it is, because people need to know it’s never too late to start again—then run upstairs to the bridal suite.
Bracing myself for rage-fueled hair pulling and tiny, empty alcohol bottles scattered across the floor, I announce myself.
“Knock, knock. Wedding planner extraordinaire, at your service!” Gingerly, I crack the door, peeking inside.
Shockingly, there’s no hitch in sight. Hailey and her bridesmaids are in blush-pink satin robes with giant rollers in their hair, cheerily stuffing their faces with croissants and fruit and sipping brightly garnished mimosas like wedding royalty.
“Ahh, Ebs!” she shrieks, rushing me and pulling me into a hug. “Today’s the big day! I’m so freaking excited!”
“Oh my God, you’re going to be the most beautiful bride.” I squeeze her tight, genuinely grateful to be here in this moment to ensure her day is as amazing as she is.
But as I glance past her shoulder, I make eye contact with Hillary, and there’s the hitch.She’swhat’s going to go wrong today.
And yet this woman I’ve known half my life, who betrayed me so deeply… I don’t feel the urge to spew venom at her or call her out of my name. Really, I just feel sorry for her.
She quirks a small, sheepish smile at me. “Thank you for making my sister’s wedding a dream come to life.”
Everything in me wishes I could forgive her. Just say, “We don’t haveto be as close as we used to be,”and move past the betrayal.
But as she walks over to greet me, I can’t even make myself say,“You’re welcome.”Instead, I say the only words that ever made it onto the page in my journal. “I can’t forgive you…however, I can be cordial for the sake of your sister’s wedding.”
It’s the best I can do.
Take it or leave it.
Thankfully, she takes it, and together with the rest of the bridesmaids, we support her sister. She’s fed well with a full spread of fruit, meats, and breads, and sitting in the makeup chair.
With the same iron will, I leave to check on the groom and his men.
Again, I’m utterly surprised when I’m met with the same grace and respect from my teary-eyed ex-husband, who apologizes for everything he put me through and thanks me profusely.
Honestly, the date on the invitations could be misprinted and a tsunami could crash through the grand ballroom and I would be more prepared.
When I leave that room, I have to lean against the wall the to hold myself upright because… “What the hell is happening?”
More importantly, what is wrong with this picture?
It’s like the universe woke up and decided to rectify all the wrongs in my life.
Soon, the sun is low in the soft, dusky blue sky, and as Hailey appears at the end of the aisle in a delicate lace Armani Privé wedding gown with thin, graceful straps, its sheer fabric whispering timeless elegance, my heart yearns for this romance again. The love shining in Donovan’s glassy eyes as she strides toward him on the arm of her father. The heartfelt promises and the intimacy of trust and deep love as they exchange vows, and Donovan lifts her veil to seal it with a—far too X-rated, in my opinion—kiss. But all the same, I want it.
It’s the gift that keeps on giving, and I can’t contain my laughter.
Now, I’m holding my heart and gasping for air, barely able to stand upright as I swipe away my tears. “Cheers to the happy couple!”
“Get a room!” someone yells, sending laughter rippling through the rows of guests.
“Now you’re stuck with him,” says another.
Still another calls out, “Let’s get this party started,” lifting the energy higher.
As the couple jumps the broom and the recessional starts, I know, deep down, I’ve got to get it right this time. I want to feel that profound connection, commitment, and devotion with Linc—whenever he’s ready.
