Page 5 of The Curvy Girl's Father of the Bride
Lord have mercy.I clear my throat, suddenly feeling uncomfortably hot in my riding clothes.
Chapter five
Louisa
“It’s an hour before the wedding and I’m ready. No super fancy braids or updo for me. I’m wearing my hair down and added a few loose waves with a curling iron. I didn’t cake on any makeup either. I am, however, wearing yet another new dress. This one is a creamy apricot-pink, short-sleeved, knee-length number that fit me perfectly off the rack.
Dad and I could have attended last night’s rehearsal dinner. Jeremy called a few hours before it started to remind us that even though we weren’t officially on the invitation, we were more than welcome to come. But we opted out and went to a nearby café instead. It felt right to stick with tradition and give the bridal party and the family their space. I’m sure Jeremy wanted to spend every second he could with Gillian before the big day.
On our way to breakfast, the ranch was bustling with activity. Huge floral arrangements were being ushered past us down to the water, wait staff was bustling around, and excited guests were arriving at the last minute. In the dining room, everyone seemed brimming with happiness. Although we didn’t talk much, I could tell Jeremy was distracted, which is probably par for the course. I guess I’ll find out soon enough when my sister ties the knot. Who knows what kind of state my father will be in.
I finish applying the last touch of lip gloss before grabbing the small clutch that matches my dress and slipping into my heels. I realize this day isn’t about me, but it doesn’t stop my heart from screaming for the father of the bride. I wonder if Jeremy’s forgotten about our dance. With so much on his mind, I wouldn’t blame him in the least if he did, but a girl can dream.
After making my way to Dad’s room, I rap on the polished wooden door as the sun streams through the windows lining the elegant hallway. After a moment, my father answers with a sweeping, “Come on in.” His hair is styled beautifully and he’s clean-shaven, partially because I managed to get him into the resort’s spa at the last minute after breakfast. He smells good too, and his suit is impeccable. I grin at him appraisingly. “Looking handsome there, Pops.”
“Well, thank you. Your old man cleans up nicely, doesn’t he?”
“Sure does,” I giggle as he pulls me in for a hug. When I break from our embrace, I notice the tie hanging loosely around his collar. “Need some help?” I point.
“Would you mind?” He gives me a sheepish grin, rubbing the back of his neck. “I haven’t had to wear one of these things in ages.”
I laugh, patting his arm. “Let me.” I reach up, and with a few flicks of my wrist, make a perfect knot on the first try. I don’t know where I learned to do it. Maybe my grandpa? Whatever the case, fixing a man’s tie is my superpower even though I haven’t had much practice.
“Done,” I announce, stepping back, admiring my handiwork. My father gives himself a once-over in the mirror, grunting his approval. He turns to me, his eyes softening as he takes in my outfit.
“You sure look beautiful, Lou,” he says with a voice filled with pride.
I blush, looking down at my hands. “Thanks, Dad.”
Silence hangs between us for a moment before he clears his throat. “You know, I’ll be in the same boat as Jeremy soon,” he comments with a heavy sigh, and my heart squeezes in my chest.
“You mean when Harlow gets married?”
My father nods, looking thoughtful. “It’s not easy, watching your little girl grow up, preparing to start a life of her own.”
His words strike a chord in me, making me wonder what kind of emotions and thoughts must be running through Jeremy’s head right now. I reach out, placing a comforting hand on Dad’s arm.
“I think you’ll handle it just fine,” I reassure him. “Just like Jeremy will today.”
“Promise?”
“How ‘bout this? If you start to fall apart at Harlow’s wedding, Rosie and I will be right by your side to pick you up and get you through the day.”
He shrugs. “Three daughters. I’m a lucky man.” He grabs his wallet and room key off the dresser. “Ready?”
“Let’s do it.”
We take the path to the most picturesque spot at Pleasure Ranch. The ceremony will take place in a private cove nestled by the serene, sapphire waters of the lake. The air is rich with the scent of roses, gardenias, and honeysuckle. Bouquets punctuate every row of chairs along the emerald grass, creating a beautiful path for Gilly.
Sunlight dapples the surface of the water and casts a shimmering glow onto the white chiffon and floral-draped archway that frames the altar. Dad’s hand rests at the small of my back as we navigate our way around the clusters of guests chatting in hushed whispers. I recognize a few faces from Jeremy’s circle of friends and my father’s business associates. They greet us warmly, shaking hands, and offering smiles as we all exchange compliments. Our seats are near the back, a perfect vantage point to take in the ceremony.
Once we settle into our seats, my father strikes up a conversation with the couple seated next to us, people he’s known from his old business days. I let their muffled words wash over me as I spot Jeremy, and my jaw hits the ground. Holy smokes. I’ve never seen him in a tuxedo before. This is not good. He usually wears jeans and a cowboy hat when he comes to visit Dad on the ranch. I thought he looked incredible at dinner the other night in his fitted dress shirt, but right now, he looks like he belongs on the cover of a magazine.
Excitement stirs the air as the string quartet tucked under the shade of a grand old willow tree begins to play. A cool soothing breeze wafts off the water. It’s the kind of wedding you see in fairytales set in paradise, and it all feels slightly surreal.
My dad nudges me and whispers, “You couldn’t ask for a better day to be married.” When he gestures behind us, I crane my neck to take in Gillian in all her astounding glory. She has never looked more stunning than she does at this moment. She’s beaming with happiness, and her complexion is glowing.
Her angelic white wedding gown sparkles when the sun reflects off the beads, as her gorgeous father gracefully escorts her, step by step, down the aisle. Thomas, her groom, is as dashing as ever, waiting for her under the arch with the pastor. His gaze never leaves hers and Gilly’s smile for him radiates from her soul.
