Page 79 of One Pucking Destiny

We had a bunch of options when deciding where our wedding would be held. Mom offered up her dad’s mansion, and of course, we had the funds to book any place we wanted. Yet when it came down to it, the feel of the place was what mattered. We wanted something cozy, beautiful, and full of love. We could think of no place better than our perfect new home.

When Bash and I were looking for our forever home, this one was love at first sight. It’s an elegant Craftsman-style house; the exterior dons a combination of wood, stone, and stucco in blue and gray hues. It feels warm and happy while maintaining an air of elegance. Everything about this property, from the stunning landscape to the well-designed open floor plan, is lovely. When we were touring the home prior to purchase, I was enamored with the front porch and could imagine rocking our future babies on the porch swing. The short drive to Mom and Beckett’s new home was a huge bonus.

The stunning backyard is huge—providing ample space for a perfect backyard wedding.

“Thanks. Did you see all the flowers out back?”

“Yes, so gorgeous. It’s a magical fairy garden out there.”

I nod. “That’s what I was going for. The florists were incredible to work with.”

Mom sits down and nurses Nolan. “With any luck, he’ll sleep through the whole thing.”

“If not, no worries. You know Bash is going to be crying like a baby,” I joke.

“That boy sure loves you.”

“Yeah,” I agree, checking myself over in the full-length mirror.

“Everything set for your clinicals?”

“Yep, I start next week. I got a really great first placement working with one of the best surgeons in the country.”

“Ooo, how long do you think it will be before you get to do your first surgery?”

“I’m not sure, but I can’t wait. It’s going to be such a busy year but so fun. Bash and I have gone over our schedules to figure out when I’m going to be here versus when he’ll come there. Of course, there will be a couple of days a week when we won’t see each other, but it’ll be fine. It’s not forever, right?” I turn, looking at her in question.

She waves a hand through the air. “Oh, honey, it’ll be great. As you said, a very busy but a very excitingyear. I have no doubt the two of you will finish the year happier than ever.”

“Yeah, definitely.” I nod.

The door opens, and Hattie comes in wearing the elegant rose-colored bridesmaid’s dress. She’s followed by my other bridesmaids, two of my closest friends from college.

I opted to stick with three bridesmaids even though Bash has twelve groomsmen. The truth is, he’s lucky I chose three. I was content standing up there by myself. He couldn’t narrow his friends down to three. He agonized over the decision for days until we decided that the sides didn’t have to be equal. With anyone else, I might think the arrangement is obnoxious, but it works for Bash. He builds genuine connections with everyone. So when he says that all the guys on the team are his best friends, plus some more from high school and college, it’s true. He’s an easy guy to get along with, and he values the people in his life.

One of the many reasons I’m thrilled to marry Bash is because he’s the type of person who has twelve groomsmen. I’ve been very selective of the people around me for years. I was a self-proclaimed homebody who wanted nothing more than to hang out with my mom. She was all I needed. I realize now that the world is a pretty incredible place when I let others in. A life with Bash means we will always be surrounded byothers who love us. He’s nurtured these amazing friendships and a community of great people who have taken me in as one of their own. With Bash, I’ll never be lonely.

Hattie gives my mom a look I can’t quite decipher, but her grin tells me she’s up to something.

My mom stands from the chair and returns Nolan to the sling against her chest. “All set then. Okay, I should go.” She rushes over to me and pulls me into an embrace. “I love you, my sweet girl.”

“Love you, too, Ma.”

After she’s left, I address Hattie with a raised brow. “What was that all about?”

“Oh, nothing.” She grins. “You about ready?”

I run my hands down my satin dress. “I’m ready.”

The four of us head out into the living room, where the windows facing the backyard are covered with elegant white curtains to block the guests’ view of the house’s interior. The string quartet begins to play outside, and one by one, my bridesmaids step through the doorway and make their descent down the aisle.

“Now, remember to wait until the song changes. Once I’m down the aisle and out of the way, the music will change to signify that it’s your turn.”

“Got it.” I can’t help but grin at the seriousness of her tone.

“This part is serious. Okay? You’ll walk through thedoor and wait ten seconds before you start down the aisle.”

“Why?” I ask, not remembering that little tidbit from the rehearsal.

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