AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“With a flower girl dropping the petals,” I said, her vision coming clear in my mind.
“The rows of wedding chairs will go here, an archway in front of the pond.” I tipped my head to consider the view the photographer would have as a backdrop. It was a small pond with one dock I’d used as a child.
“I hadn’t even considered a water view for the wedding. This is even better than I was imagining.”
“The pond is our best-kept secret.” Several developers had reached out to me after my grandmother died, offering me money for the property. They’d even shown me plans for a development that kept the pond, but I hadn’t been interested in the offers. I was still holding out hope for my vision.
I’d always envisioned living here and raising my children. Watching them jump off the dock into the water. It would only be possible if I could convince Zoe and Max this was the perfect location for their wedding.
I drew in a breath, feeling the pressure of this moment. There might be other brides and grooms who would be interested in the property, but I wanted this to work for my friends. I knew Max and Zoe would tell their friends, and word would spread.
Zoe looked from Max to me. “It’s gorgeous. Exactly what I envisioned.”
Max moved closer, turning her to face him. “I want you to be happy.”
Since they were wrapped up in each other, I made my way to the pond to see the state of the dock. It was there but sagging. I wondered if I should restore it or just remove it.
A few seconds later, Zoe approached. “The dock is perfect. Are you planning on keeping it?”
“I haven’t decided. It looks like I’d need to replace a few boards.”
“Do you think it’s possible you could be ready for a spring wedding?”
“June’s a possibility. If I can plant soon, we’ll have some amazing flowers for you.” I hoped the weather would cooperate, and we wouldn’t have any late-spring freezes. Maryland weather could be a little unpredictable.
Zoe clasped her hands together. “Does this mean you’ll do it?”
Even though I’d only known her for a short time, I wanted to give Zoe her dream wedding. “I’ll do everything I can to make it a beautiful day.”
I’d learned from Gia never to say “the perfect day” because it put too much pressure on the bride.
Zoe squealed. “I can’t believe the perfect location was here all along.”
“Do you need any help to clear the barn and property?” Max asked.
“I couldn’t ask for help. You’re my client.”
“Here, business owners lean on each other. You’re providing one more venue for the wedding planning services, which helps your florist shop, the bakery, the photographers, and even restaurants like mine that cater events like these. It’s good for everyone.”
The more he talked, the more hopeful I was that it could work. I could offer outdoor or small, indoor ceremonies and receptions, showers, and even galas. The options were endless.
My grandmother would have loved the idea of couples getting married here and celebrating their union. She wanted people to enjoy her property.
Zoe clasped her hands together in front of her face. “I think you’re going to have a lot of interest, and I’m so excited to be your first bride.”
“Me too,” I said as Zoe hugged me.
“Let me know what help you need. Zoe has her heart set on this place, and I want to get married sooner rather than later.”
As we headed toward the house, Zoe and Max linked hands. “I love that huge porch on the back. I didn’t notice it before.”
“My grandfather added that porch on for my grandmother.”
“That’s so sweet.” Zoe and Max exchanged a smile.
As we ascended the wide steps, Zoe said, “You could easily hold a cocktail party here.”
Standing in the middle of the porch, I gestured at the wooden rocking chairs. “I have fond memories of my grandparents holding hands while I played with my dolls in this Victorian dollhouse while the rain came down.”
