Her parents had flown in the day before and met Dan’s parents for a formal dinner at an upscale restaurant paid for by his parents. It had been an unpleasant evening. Mrs. Hayes didn’t talk much, but that didn’t stop Jenny’s dad from peppering her with questions. Neither set of parents were enthusiastic about the upcoming nuptials. It showed on their faces and in their conversations the entire evening. Jenny had looked over at Dan sadly several times during the meal, wishing things could be different.
But Dan had been sweet at the end of the evening. When they’d said good-bye she’d felt close to tears. He wiped the emerging tears away whispering, “Only one more night.” She’d nodded and quickly jumped into her father’s car afraid of losing her composure, but Dan motioned her to unroll the window. He’d brushed his hair back all cute-like before saying, “Then the next time we meet I will be saying I do.” He patted the car a couple of times and turned away. Maybe it had been hard on him too…
His words “I do” still rang in her head. A smile spread across her face as she stretched in the hotel bed. It was going to be a beautiful day and tonight she would be in Dan’s arms - forever.
Jenny spent the morning primping. Her mother then helped her to style her hair, keeping it down and long, just the way Dan liked it. Her makeup was light and natural as well, honoring his simple tastes. When it came time to put on the dress, her mother unzipped the bag and carefully pulled out the gown.
Jenny stared at it in shock. “It’s the wrong dress.”
Her mother looked sick. “What do you mean it’s the wrong dress? Oh my god, did the shop keeper mix up your dress with another? What are we going to do?”
Jenny smiled with tears in her eyes. “Mom, it’s not the dress I picked out. It’s the dress of my dreams.”
Her mother relaxed and brought the dress to her. “You had me scared for a minute.”
Jenny touched the lace and played with the buttons on the gown. “This gown cost a fortune, Mama. I can’t believe Dan did this for me…”
“It is exquisite, Jenny.”
Jenny slipped it on and her mother helped with all the buttons. Both of them stared in the mirror speechless.
“Perfect,” her mother sighed.
“Yes.”
“But I think I have something that will make it even better. You need something blue, my darling.” Her mother pulled out a black velvet box and handed it to her.
Jenny recognized the box. When she was a little girl she often played with her mother’s jewelry, but this one was one piece she was not allowed to touch. “Oh, Mama…”
“It was the first piece of jewelry your father gave me. I’ve always loved it and now I want you to have it.”
“I can’t. Doda meant this for you.”
“I talked to your father and he is in agreement. We both want you to have it. I wish we could give you more, darling. But times have been tough for your father the last few years. Just know this is given in love.”
Jenny opened the box in awed reverence and looked at the diamond encrusted sapphire. It was delicate and stunning. She took it out and handed it to her mother. Jenny closed her eyes as her mother clasped the necklace around her.
“Yes, it finishes the look,” her mother said proudly, standing back and smiling. “You look so beautiful, Jenny. I don’t think I have seen you this happy since you were a little girl.”
“I am Mama. I love Dan more than I can say.”
“I had my doubts about his character being Ryan’s best friend, but his little surprise with the dress…well, I can’t help seeing a bit of your father in him.”
Jenny held back the tears as she hugged her mom. “It means the world to me that you can accept this wedding…him.”
“I don’t understand why you are rushing it, but knowing how I felt about your father when we first met, I believe time doesn’t matter when it’s right.”
“Thank you, Mama.”
“Darling, your happiness is my only concern.” Her mother hugged her one last time, being exceedingly careful not to mess her dress and hair. It was a long drive to the mountains, and although it was sunny in the city, the higher they went the cloudier the skies became. Jenny became concerned that the weather might ruin their wedding plans. This is why outdoor weddings in the winter aren’t done! she scolded herself.
She was grateful when they made it to the wedding site and saw that everyone else had arrived. Her father helped her out of the car and held out his arm. Jenny took it gratefully, walking beside her father bursting with joy as she gazed over the small gathering. She instantly recognized her future in-laws and Rose, but noticed a taller version of Dan standing next to a lanky blonde. She had to assume it was his brother Marcus because the guy looked just like Dan except for the dark hair.
Jenny’s eyes naturally gravitated to her future husband. He was dangerously handsome in his tux, making her quiver inside. When he turned to face her and his whole face lit up, Jenny almost broke ranks and ran to him. It took great effort for her to remain by her father’s side.
As she approached, Jenny tried to imagine what Dan was seeing - her long dark hair styled in lose ringlets, her stunning coat hugging the curves he loved so well, and the hint of her leather boots peeking out with each step. But he wasn’t looking at any of those things; his eyes were locked on hers.
Dan stepped back as she came up beside him, giving her an unobstructed view of the person standing behind him. Jenny froze, unable to breathe.
Ryan nodded and said nonchalantly, “Hey, Jenny.”
She was grateful for her father’s supportive arm when her knees almost gave out. “Ryan, you’re…here.” Tears unwillingly formed.
He walked over to her, shaking his head. “No crying. I’ll leave if you do.”
She quickly wiped her eyes and smiled. However, her bottom lip quivered from the effort. “I didn’t think…”
“Do you mind if I stand in as your maid of honor?” Ryan asked with a teasing smirk. “I heard you were lacking one.”
“Really, Ryan? I…” a tear fell down her cheek.
“No crying, remember?” he said sternly. She nodded and bit her bottom lip to stop it from quivering.
“Let us proceed,” stated an unfamiliar voice. Jenny looked up saw the young pastor from the local mountain church was ready with his bible clutched firmly in his hand.
Dan kissed her cheek. “Meet you out on the water, my little Kumquat.”
Jenny looked out over the pond and gasped. A long scarlet path lined with red and white poinsettias led out to the middle of the pond. At the end of the red path was a large arch cascading in white flowers and red ribbons. Tall pines framed the icy pond as the large snowcapped peaks towered above.
A fairytale come to life… all but the gathering dark clouds. They looked suspiciously pregnant with snow. Jenny worried at the sudden drop in temperature as the winds began to gently swirl around them.
Rose handed her a bouquet of gardenias, tiny crimson roses, with a hint of pine interspersed with red and gold ribbon. A masterpiece in its own right.
“Thank you, Rose. This is exquisite.”
“Only the best for you, sweetie. Knock ‘em dead.” She swatted Jenny on the butt, and winked at Dan’s mother who stood several feet away looking serious and foreboding. Jenny turned away from Mrs. Hayes. She wasn’t going to allow that woman’s poor attitude to affect her wedding.
“It’s time to make this official,” her father announced in his low comforting voice, taking Jenny’s hand back and giving it a fatherly pat.
She leaned her head against his strong shoulder. “Yes, Doda, let’s.”
The small wedding party gathered on the carpeted ice, leaving Jenny and her father behind. Her mother gave Jenny one last hug before taking her place. “I’m wishing you all my best, darling. Enjoy this moment, but know it only gets better from here.”
Jenny looked out onto the pond, taking in the site of Dan standing next to his older brother. Dan stood tall and conf
ident, looking at her with a love that burned fiercely in its intensity.
As her father guided her on the red carpet, she glanced over at Ryan. His expression was one of tenderness. It both blessed and broke her heart. Ryan’s presence was a gift beyond price.
Then Jenny locked eyes with Dan. His gaze was inviting, drawing her like a flame. My husband…
Everyone turned in response to the loud echoing roar of an engine. Jenny looked in the direction of the disturbance and gasped when she saw a red Camaro careening down the snowy path, fishtailing from side-to-side. “No!”
“It’ll be all right, Jenny. Don’t say anything, we’ve got this,” Dan stated calmly.
Kelly jumped out of her car screaming, “Stop the wedding! Stop it right now! This woman is nothing but a whore. She’s tricked Dan into marrying him. Everything she’s said is nothing but lies!”
Both Dan and Ryan moved in unison together blocking Jenny from Kelly’s wrath as she approached. “Turn around and go home. Now!” Dan ordered.
“No, I can’t let you do this, Dan. It’s a huge mistake.” Kelly turned to Mrs. Hayes. “You’re not going to allow this whore to marry your son are you?”
Mrs. Hayes did not hesitate, stating coolly, “I believe my son told you to leave.”
Kelly stared at her in disbelief. “Harriet, what are you saying? You know what she is. How can you take her side?”
Jenny’s father growled, stepping towards Kelly threateningly. “I believe you were told to leave.”
Kelly backed up, but looked around wildly until she spotted Ryan. “Come on! You can’t let her get away with this. I thought you came to stop it, Ryan. Why would you condone her betrayal? What are you, some kind of fucking pussy?”
The lanky blonde hissed, “Watch what you say, you venomous…”
Marcus interrupted the exchange, stating loudly, “That’s enough.” He turned to Kelly sounding suspiciously formal, “I believe there is a restraining order against you.” He walked up to her, taking something out of his pocket. Before Kelly knew what was happening, he’d handcuffed her wrist. “You are in violation of the law. You can go quietly or additional charges will be filed against you.” He walked her to his car and called out to Dan, “I’ll be back in a minute.”
He drove the car to an alcove of pine trees and got out, walking back to the group. “She’s handcuffed to the seat. That should keep her quiet while we get on with the happy event.”
Jenny’s parents looked at their daughter questioningly; unaware of the trouble Kelly had caused them.
Jenny was unsure where to begin and was relieved when Mrs. Hayes answered for her. “Kelly is still struggling with their decision, but I trust she will get over it. We anticipated she might be a problem today, which is why I asked my son Marcus to bring his cuffs.”
As much as Harriet didn’t want the marriage to take place, she had taken precautions to protect the ceremony. Jenny was shocked and mouthed the words, “Thank you,” to her. The woman met her appreciation with a cold stare, but nodded stiffly.
The small group took their places again and the pastor began the ceremony. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here…” Jenny was barely aware of his words the moment Dan took her hands in his.
Dan must have noticed her delirium, because he gently squeezed her hand and she heard the words, “….say I do.”
Jenny giggled nervously; embarrassed she’d almost missed her cue. “I do. I most definitely do.”
The pastor continued on, but her heart was beating so loudly by then that it drowned out his words. She saw Dan’s perfect lips form the words “I do” and her whole body broke out in a warm flush.
“The couple has chosen to share their own vows during the exchange of rings.”
Jenny pulled off her glove and handed it to Ryan. She smiled bashfully when Dan took her left hand in his. He slipped his great grandmother’s wedding band on her finger and then brought her hand to his lips. The love reflected in his eyes melted her heart.
“Jenny, my life didn’t start until I met you. Everything before was just going through the motions, but I didn’t know it. I was blind until you came into my life and gave it color. I love everything about you, from this long beautiful hair…” he said, playing with a dark curl, “to this gorgeous Cherokee skin.” He caressed her cheek lightly. “But it is your adventurous spirit I admire most. I feel like… No, I am the luckiest man on the planet.” He took her other hand and squeezed both tightly. “You are my treasure and I will endeavor to remind you of that every day.” He gave her a little wink when he added, “It will be my pleasure to do so.”
Marcus handed her Dan’s ring. Jenny’s hands trembled slightly as she guided the gold band onto his finger. She took a deep breath, wanting to drink in the moment a little longer.
“Dan, I have finally found myself in you. Your love complements me.” She inadvertently glanced at the edge of the pond, remembering their last visit to this place. Dan responded with a low chuckle, letting her know he was thinking of the same memory. “You seem to understand me on a level no one else does. Your wisdom, patience, and love have transformed me into someone new. I can’t imagine life without you now.” She looked deeply into Dan’s brown eyes and smiled. “Dan William Hayes, I pledge my loyalty and love to you and I cannot wait to share the rest of my life’s journey with you by my side.” Jenny went to kiss him, but remembered half-way and stopped herself.
Several people laughed when the pastor cautioned her, “Now, now… no need to rush.” He then announced in a dramatic voice loud enough to echo off the snowcapped peaks, “What God has joined together, let no man put asunder!” When the muted echoes died off, he added in a tender tone, “And so, by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife.” He grinned at the groom, “You may now kiss the eager bride.”
Dan put his hands around Jenny’s waist and tilted his head slightly as he went in for the kiss. It started off tender, but then he parted her lips with his tongue and took his bride. Marcus cleared his throat, bringing them both back to reality. Dan broke the embrace and they looked at each other and laughed.
The pastor didn’t miss a beat. “I present to you, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Hayes.”
Dan took Jenny’s hand and they faced the small group. Her heart felt close to bursting as she walked back down the red carpet as the new Mrs. Hayes.
Dan’s parents made it a point to congratulate them first. Mr. Hayes hugged his son, thumping him hard on the back. “You’ve taken on quite a responsibility. Don’t you dare fail your new wife.”
“I only learned from the best, Pops. No worries there.”
Mr. Hayes turned to Jenny. “You are officially my daughter now. I’ve never had one before, but I’ll do my best to do right by you.” He took Jenny in his arms and gave her a real hug. She sighed inwardly, happy to receive his love.
“Thank you…Dad.” It felt a little weird saying it, especially with her father standing close by, but Jenny couldn’t have been happier.
“Yes, welcome to our family. I hope you enjoy our honeymoon gift.” Mrs. Hayes stated with exaggerated formality. She did not make a move to hug Jenny.
“I’m sure I will.”
Dan’s father took a key from his pocket with a red bow attached and handed it to her. “From our family to your new family.”
Jenny took the key as Dan put his arm around her. “It’s the cabin.”
Mr. Hayes explained, “Harriet and I both felt it was the perfect gift for you two. I am sure Gammy and Poppy would approve.”
Jenny studied Dan’s mother carefully. “Are you sure, Mrs. Hayes?”
“It’s ‘mother’ to you.”
Jenny gave a spontaneous hug to the stiff woman. “Thanks, Mom!”
Dan joined in the hug, forcing Harriet to respond to the group embrace. She sputtered, “That’s quite enough you two.” She straightened her jacket before adding, “I made a few changes to one of the rooms. I hope it will be suitable.”
Jenny
threatened to hug her again, so she quickly stepped backwards to get away from Jenny’s reach and bumped into Ryan. Poor Mrs. Hayes looked mortified and made an abrupt beeline to the pastor.
Ryan looked at Jenny and Dan awkwardly. “Sorry, but I didn’t bring a gift.”
Jenny gushed, “Rye, coming today was the greatest gift you could give!”
He nodded towards the lanky blonde with short, bobbed hair standing a few feet away. “It’s Roxanne’s fault. She said I would regret it later if I didn’t come.” Jenny looked at the woman with renewed interest, realizing she was Marcus’ date after all. The woman was attractive - tall, blonde; the exact opposite of Jenny.
Ryan explained, “She’s my temp.”
“Oh… the attorney in disguise,” Jenny acknowledged. “She must be good at the powers of persuasion to get you to come today.”
Ryan gazed at Roxanne with admiration. “Yeah, she’s a smart lady and she’s right. I still care about you and Dan…despite everything.”
“I’m glad to hear it, Rye,” Jenny said, tentatively reaching out to give him a hug. He tensed and she stepped back in response, suddenly aware of the nerves he was trying to hide. She smiled, hoping to express her heart without bringing him further pain. “Ryan, you being here is the best gift ever.” She swallowed back the lump in her throat, adding, “I will hold this memory dear to me always.”
Ryan’s lips twitched and he looked desperately at Roxanne for support. She walked over to him and broke the awkward silence that hung in the mountain air. “I am glad I was able to attend your wedding, Mrs. Hayes. Getting to meet you gives me a better idea who Ryan is.”
Jenny was concerned for Ryan’s well-being, so she cut their conversation short. “I know you two have a long drive back. I thank you for coming - for everything.”
Dan shook Ryan’s hand and said gruffly, “Thank you, Ryan.”
Ryan responded with a hard handshake. His voice faltered when he replied, “Take care of her.” He immediately took Roxanne’s hand and headed towards their car just as the snow began to fall.