I take it from him as a cold sweat breaks out. I'm a big girl, not heavy, but not petite. This is a petite size.
He says, "Jenny sent a note with it." Then he laughs, "She sent a note to me too."
He reaches into the box and hands it to me.
I hear Jenny's voice in my head as I read:
Now, don't be upset over the simple design of the dress. I had to consider how to make everyone beautiful and comfortable within a tight budget.
You can't help being beautiful. You just are. And you have to learn to stop pretending you aren't. Be(YOU)tifull!
L.Y.L.A.S.
You're the bestest!
I drop the note and hold the dress up again. Then hang my head backward and stare at the ceiling. "Everything I own is going to be shown."
He chuckles, and I ask, "What does your note say?"
He clears his voice and reads:
Blaze,
Summer is going to be stunning in her gown. I expect you to guard her with your life! Don't leave her side for a single moment at the reception. I won't have her groped by a bunch of drunk men!
If you do, I promise you, you'll die a thousand deaths at my hand.
I'm not joking!
Love,
Jenny
I hang my head and shake it from side to side. "Well, at least our being together tonight won't be a shock to her."
"Nope. It's been sanctioned."
"Demanded," I roll my eyes, "but I won't nit-pick why."
He cracks his knuckles and says, "Everyone is going to know you're my girl."
I laugh at him. "I'm not putting that thing on early!" I'll dress in the tent with Jenny. You'll have to handle the final schedule."
"I got your back, baby."
"You sure as hell better."
"And I'm taking Blazing Fire with me to the holding tent!"
"Wait a minute now. You don't want to get too tipsy. Remember what happened the first time?"
I blush in spite of the playful reminder. "I'm not going to drink it all myself. I'll share it around. I'm sure they all have a hangover and need it."
He chuckles, "They'll all need it when they see you dressed in it. The only person that has a chance of upstaging you is the bride."
Blaze
Oh, to be a fly on the wall right now.I stand outside the bridal tent, guarding it and overseeing my duties to ensure everyone is where they are supposed to be.
