Mary insisted Eric not see her on their wedding day until she walked down the aisle. Mary brought her breakfast, and lunch, in her room. Then she ordered her a bath and filled the tub again with rose-oil. As she lay soaking blissfully Mary questioned her.
“Do you understand what is to happen tonight?” Eva smiled at Mary’s attempt at discretion.
“Yes, I am aware of what will occur.”
“I know Mr. Butler is a large man, but do not fear, all will work out.” Mary continued, as she patted her arm sympathetically.
Eva felt she could have lived the rest of her life without that comment. Just then her Aunt chose to enter. She thought for once she had perfect timing. “Your soon to be husband wanted me to let you know he is leaving for the church now.”
“Thank you. Aunt Adela, for everything.”
Her Aunt took her hand in hers.
“Are you alright, Eva?”
“I am fine.”
“Pen is nearly ready then we will come back and help you finish up.”
She exited her bath and with Mary’s help dawned all but her dress. Mary fixed her hair simply, but beautiful. The style accentuated her youth and innocence. She hoped Eric would appreciate it. Pen and Aunt Adela helped with her dress. Finally, she was ready. They started down stairs, but Mary did not follow.
“Mary, are you not coming?”
“No my sweet, I want to make the room special for tonight… I will be with you in spirit.”
Eva realized she loved Mary already. She was loaded into the Wedding carriage decorated for the occasion. They arrived at the church and everyone entered except her and her Uncle. On queue he escorted her toward her future husband. Eric was stunningly handsome in his black suit. He had his hair slicked back, all the unruly waves confined to his neck. She took note he must have shaven there at the chapel for his normal shadow was gone. Eva was happy, this felt right. She wanted nothing more at that moment than to stand at his side forever. Eric realized he was holding his breath as she walked down the aisle towards him. She was the most beautiful creature to ever walk this earth and he had truly lucked up on her. He would have to thank his Father’s bookkeeper and her Uncle, regardless of their tactics, he had benefited in more ways than one. When he took her hand in his she was not trembling as he had expected her to be. She was sure in her decision. She smiled at him, he realized he must have been the one that looked nervous. The official ceremony was short. The time had come, finally, for him to taste her sweet mouth. With his hands at her slender waist he pulled her close to him. She looked up at him in anticipation as he brought his mouth down to hers. Oh sweet Lord, she was delicious. One taste was not enough. She may not have ever been kissed, but she responded so right his blood rushed nearly causing him to groan aloud. This was not the place, or the time. Eric ever so reluctantly pulled his mouth from hers and dared not look at her face because he knew he would be undone.
Tags: Historical, Marriage, Romance
