Page 83 of Loving London

Every little girl dreams of her perfect wedding. Throughout my childhood, I spent countless hours planning this day. I knew exactly what I wanted, every detail from the crystal vases that would hold elaborate floral displays at each table down to the brand of cutlery I wanted my guests eating with. I envisioned my hair, my dress, the music, the flowers, the colors…all of it.

Today is the exact opposite of the wedding of my dreams. It’s better.

Parties end. It’s what follows the celebration that matters. That’s the good stuff. The wedding’s great, but it’s thelifethat counts. I can guarantee that the life I’ll have with Loïc will be better than anything I dreamed. True love isn’t something you can imagine until you have it.

Staring back at me is the reflection of a woman I never knew existed but one that I’m so proud to be. I’ve always loved myself, but my self-worth goes beyond simple love now. For me, love was a given, but I had to work for that pride, and it’s an awesome feeling. Life really is what you make of it, and I’ve strived to make sure I’m living a good one.

My hair falls around my shoulders in long brunette waves, covering the straps of my ivory gown. I touch the floral clip holding up a lock of hair. It was first worn by my great-grandmother in the 1920s, then my grandma, and then my mom. All the women who wore it have had long, happy marriages, and I’m about to be one of them. It’s mysomething old, and I cherish it.

My mother’s reflection appears behind me. Her eyes shine with happiness. “You are a stunning bride, London. Simply stunning.”

“Thank you, Mom.”

My mother and I had a few disputes during the initial planning stages of this wedding. With Georgia being the unpredictable free spirit that she is, my mom has always counted on me to have the big, traditional wedding extravaganza, including the crazy planning experience.

But I didn’t give it to her in the way she wanted.

I no longer coveted the wedding that would cost more than my family’s entire home. My mom was unpleased when I chose a dress off the rack instead of having one custom-made by a famous designer. But all of that lavishness seemed unimportant.

I have a few simple wishes for today. I want to feel pretty. I want to be surrounded by close family and friends. I want to officially promise Loïc forever. And, finally, I want today to be full of quality time, laughs, and tons of love.

That’s all.

I’m about to get everything I never knew I wanted—my happily ever after. And that brings an immense amount of gratitude with it, making me realize what’s truly important.

I turn away from the mirror and toward my mother.

“You were right; the dress is perfect,” my mother says. Her eyes glisten with tears as she squeezes my hands in hers.

“Isn’t it?” I agree with a giant grin. My dress is simple, feminine, and flowy. It’s the quintessential dress for a beach wedding.

“Oh my gosh!” Paige’s excited voice sounds through the room. “You’re so beautiful, London.” She pulls me into a hug and holds me tight. Leaning back, she grabs my shoulders and looks me in the eyes. “I am so happy for you.”

I smile at my best friend. “Thank you.”

I think it’s rare for people to feel pure happiness for someone else. So often, compliments and well wishes are painted with a stroke of jealousy. I don’t think it’s a bad or malicious fact. It’s simply human nature. With a true friend, like Paige, who has such a kind heart, there is no internalbutto her statement. She’s not thinking,I’m so happy for you, but…I wish it were me. Where’s my soul mate? When will it be my turn?She’s just happy for me.

Friends that can give you a compliment without thinking of abutare treasures. And I’m lucky enough to have three of them standing up with me today.

Behind Paige are Kate and Georgia in their pale pink dresses that resemble mine, except for the color. My girls are elegant, carefree, and gorgeous, all at once. With our wavy locks and long dresses, we are four Greek goddesses.

“How’s Loïc?” I ask Georgia.

“Happy,” she answers with a warm smile.

My heart clenches with her response. “Me, too,” I agree.

“I can tell. Happiness is just radiating from you.” She takes my hand in hers and squeezes gently. “Are you ready? It’s about that time.”

“Isoam.” There isn’t anything I want more than to promise Loïc that I’ll love him till death do us part.

“I’m going to go take my place. I love you, baby girl.” My mom leans in for another hug.

“Love you, too, Mom.”

When she leaves the small space that we’re using as our makeshift bridal room, the elegant music from the string quartet is carried in on the breeze of the salty sea air.

“Oh, they sound great,” Paige says.

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