Page 51 of Paradox
It’s not the big blowout I wanted, but Jon promised me we’d have another ceremony after the baby’s born. For that one, I’ll get the big cathedral, the long guest list, and all the trimmings I’ve dreamed of since I was a little girl—especially the dress. Today, it’s just us at the clubhouse with a few friends and family. I went simple with my dress—a knee-length pleated skirt, crochet lace overlaid bodice, and a belted empire waist.
And yes, I’m wearing white.
Raven fidgets with my hair, which Laurelyn has styled in one of her fancy chignons.
“You look gorgeous,” she says. “Dr. E is gonna lose his mind.”
“I’ve been looking forward to this day, and now I just want it to be over so I can start being Mrs. Emerson.”
“I know the feeling.” Raven grins as she walks over to the crib to check on my beautiful, two-month-old niece and nephew. Their hair hasn’t fallen out like Mikey’s did, only getting thicker with time. They’re certainly going to be a pair of heartbreakers.
“Stay still, honey, so I can put your veil on. It’s almost time.”
Turning my back to Aunt Nita, I allow her to attach it. A part of me wishes my mom was here to help me get ready, to watch me say my vows, but Nita is a worthy substitute. She took on raising me and Gage when she didn’t have to.
“My beautiful girl.” She steps in front of me, cradling my cheek. “Corrine would be proud of the woman you’ve become. I’m so happy to see you finallylivingagain.”
“Thank you, Auntie.” I stare into her tear-filled green eyes, so much like Daddy’s, and fight to hold back my own tears.
“Are you ready?”
I nod, dabbing at the corners of my eyes with my finger. Raven hands me my cascading bouquet of white roses, and right on time, Daddy’s voice comes from the other side of the door.
“Baby girl, can I come in?”
“Yes, Daddy!”
Cracking the door open, he sticks his head inside. When his gaze lands on me, his eyes go wide and he steps in. Slowly, he approaches, taking my hands in his.
“You look beautiful, Ellen. Einstein is a lucky man.”
“Thank you, Daddy. Are you ready to give me away?”
“Never… but I’m more than willing to share.”
“Oh, Daddy.” I wrap my arms around him, kissing his cheek. “I’ll always be your little girl.”
“I know. Now let’s go, baby girl. Your husband is waiting.”
***Einstein***
In a few minutes, I’ll be a married man. My life will be no different than the last few months, but it willfeeldifferent. The document that will legally join Ellen and me is invaluable, yet it’s only a piece of paper.
“Nervous?”
I glance over at Gage, who’s next to me at the makeshift altar. We’re getting married under a tent in the clubhouse courtyard, but Ellen’s transformed it into a location fit for wedding magazines. I can’t wait to give her the wedding she wants, the one she deserves.
“No way. This is what I’ve always wanted.”
“I said it before, but I’ll say it again: I’m glad it’s you. I don’t have to worry about shorty anymore.”
“You don’t need to. She’s in good hands, brother.”
“I know.”
It means a lot to have Gage’s approval, but knowing he trusts me to take care of his sister is more than I could ever ask for.
Laurelyn and Nita show up with the twins, taking their seats. Raven peeks out of the clubhouse, signaling that they’re ready.
