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The music changes, the small congregation stands, and all look back to see Miriam’s entrance. Her dress is a simple gown that suits her, paired with a modest veil. I can’t help but smile at the look on my brother’s face as he watches the woman he loves walk toward him.
And that’s when I clock Liam. He’s not looking at the bride. His eyes are firmly on me, and for some reason, he looks angry. Our eyes lock for a moment, my stomach tightens, and my heart thuds a little harder.
I snatch my eyes away and blink back the stupid sensation and focus on the wedding. This is not the time to be swept up in fairy tales.
The service starts, and I enjoy watching the admiration and joy on my brother’s face. He’s besotted, and I’m so happy for him. I keep my eyes firmly on him and not his best man.
After the I-dos and cheers, Taylor and I help Grammy down the aisle behind the rest of the party. We all spill out into the grounds and the olive trees, where the waitstaff start to bring champagne and canapes.
“It was a beautiful service, wasn’t it.” Grammy pats my hand before she accepts a glass of bubbles and takes a swig. Her grey and white hair is plaited down her back, peeking out of her wide-brimmed hat. Her dress has a bohemian flare, and it fits her character perfectly.
I grab my own glass. “It was. I’m so glad you got to celebrate here with us.”
“Oh, dear, wild horses wouldn’t have kept me away. You two are like my own flesh and blood. Now, shade and a seat.” We go to one of the covered white tables and enjoy the reprieve from the heat. “Now, what is going on between you and my grandson?” She pins me with her stare, and I know I can never lie to her.
“Nothing. We’ve not seen each other for a long time.” She nods. And I take a sip of my drink.
“And there’s no harboured feelings still?”
“Grammy…” I shake my head. “I’m just Lil to him. Eric’s little sister.” She just nods again.
“To friendship and family.” She raises her glass, and I return her toast, and we both smile.
Several glasses of champagne, numerous posed photographs, and three courses of delicious food later, we’re all waiting for the speeches. The alcohol, helped by the soaring heat, has gone to my head, and I’m feeling more than giggly. Fortunately, I’m not on the top table. That’s reserved for the best man and Miriam’s best friend, so I have a perfect view of Liam.
“Woo hooo!” I cheer and clap as he stands to make his speech.
“Maybe you’ve had one too many of those.” Taylor takes the flute of champagne from my hand and replaces it with a goblet of water.
“Spoilsport.”
“You don’t seem like the drunk-at-your-brother’s-wedding kinda girl. You can thank me later.” He’s right. But I’ve not been free to have fun in forever. With starting work, and before that, uni and final exams, I’ve been focused and diligent, and if I want to have some fun here, I should relish the opportunity.
Sitting back, I listen to Liam and his speech. Annoyingly, he’s good. He’s sincere and kind and measures the level of embarrassment to put my brother through.
“I’ve had the privilege to call Woodsy my best friend for a very long time. We grew up together–” His eyes land on me, and his words blast me back to every single time I got excited to run after them both, desperate to hang out with them and catch Liam’s eye. He keeps our eye contact for that split-second too long, and I can’t look away. “We wanted to conquer the world. And in a way, I’m a little sad about today because I’m not the partner in his life anymore. Miriam is, and I know they’ll go on to conquer anything they put their minds to.”
He has the guests in the palm of his hand, and I tear my eyes away to look at the happy couple. They are the epitome of happiness. I reach across the table and snag my glass of champagne back, ignoring the looks from Taylor.
We toast. I cheer. And I finish another glass.
When it’s time for dancing, we all gather to watch the first dance. Eric looks more nervous about this than the wedding vows, and it’s not long before Liam takes the maid-of-honour into a dance.
“Pfft,” I sneer. Not quietly enough as Grammy looks around and gives me a knowing look. So, I pull her onto the dance floor.
“Missy, I know what you’re doing.”
“I’m having fun, Grammy.”
More people join us until there’s barely any room.
“Mind if I cut in, Grams?” Liam taps me on the shoulder.
“Of course. You should dance with your grandmother.” I step back and avoid his gaze.
This is stupid. I’m over this man. I’ve been over this man for years.
“I was hoping to dance with you, actually, Lil.”
