I Swear, Let Me Love You Again

“All done.” The stylist said and I admired my hair and slightly caked up face.

“Let me get your gown.” She went into my walk-in closet while I just admired myself in the mirror. It had been a while since I had actually looked at myself and found myself gorgeous.

She helped me into the gown and I hadn’t fully taken in the beauty of the dress. It was made of a delicate white fabric that flowed and moved with every step. The neckline was simple and elegant, with a modest V-shape. The sleeves were long and billowy, adding a romantic touch to the dress. The length of the dress slightly grazed the floor.

“You look gorgeous ma’am.” My stylist gushed with sincerity. I thanked her and I looked at the time. It was a few minutes to 8pm and the party was starting at exactly 8. So I quickly grabbed my gold clutch bag and the gift I purchased for Lorena and Darren. I hurried out the room with the stylist adjusting my gown following behind me.

“Finally.” Andrew let out a breath and suddenly covered his mouth.”My little girl is all grown up.” I rolled my eyes in a full circle.Còntens bel0ngs to Nô(v)elDr/a/ma.Org

“Can we go now? Y’all making me feel like some type of celebrity.” He laughed helping me down the stairs.

He opened the back seat of his Bentley and assisted me in. Then go into the right side, the driver zoomed off.

“Where’s daddy?” I inquired from Andrew who had gone from goofy to business man mode.

“I’m not sure. Probably working late.” His reply didn’t sit right with me. Maybe due to the fact that I was suspecting either one of them for the missing funds.

Maybe he was seeing someone??

I debated on asking Andrew but with the presence of the driver, I decided to keep it till another day.

**********

“Congratulations you guys.” We greeted each other with a warm smile and quick kiss on the cheek. Then gave Darren a small hug while he and Andrew shook each other.

“Thank you my love.. you look gorgeous. Spin around for me real quick.” I laughed spinning around and she hyped me up.

“We need to take pictures.” She called on the photographer. He took dozens of pictures of the four of us, Darren and Lorena alone, My brother and I and Lorena and I.

“Let’s head in for a second.” Lorena told Darren who simply nodded. We were first outside at what felt like the red carpet where guests took pictures with the couple before heading in.

As we stepped into the luxurious hall, I marveled at the pristine white decor, from cascading drapes to glistening silver accents. Crystal chandeliers shone through the hall in a soft glow, highlighting the elegant floral arrangements. The plush white carpet beneath our feet felt like a cloud, and the air hummed with laughter and clinking glasses. Seated on sleek white leather, the atmosphere exuded an undeniable sense of refinement.

“Lorena, this is beautiful.” She smiled brightly at my compliment, mouthing an appreciation. She escorted Andrew and I to our table specially reserved.

“We will be right back, we are just going to mingle for a while.” I nodded in understanding. I couldn’t help but wonder why Darren was in an uptight mood, usually he was playful and chatty. But I guess in about three years people will change.

While Andrew was busy talking to someone on his phone, I busied myself with sipping the champagne offered and looking around the hall.

I sucked my teeth discreetly when I made eye contact with a high school mate and to my dismay she approached this table. She was wearing a short white gown and eight-inches long black heels which lifted her regular petite figure.

“OMG, isn’t this the very Lydia King, oh my fault, Lydia what again?” I gave her a fake smile rising to my feet.

“Georgia, it’s been a while.” She stretched out her hand for an embrace and I reluctantly obliged.

“You look different but in a good way.” I complimented and she smiled.

“You look the same, like literally how you looked in high school. Now sadly as young as you are, you’re divorced.” I pursed my lips tired of the word.

The news of me being a divorcee was out? I know Mrs King would be quick to spread the news.

“What can I say? Life works in mysterious ways.” She hummed discreetly, rolling her eyes.

“And who was the man with you? You went ahead to find yourself a new rich hunk, you naughty girl?” I faked a laugh and turned around realizing my brother was no longer seated there.

“It was nice seeing you, Georgia.” I ended the conversation and she gave a fake smile.

“Same.” She left and went ahead to find someone else to taunt. My heart beat rang through my ear but I shook off any fear or anything else.

“Now don’t tell me that was annoying short bald headed Georgia.” Lorena startled me by taking a seat and I laughed.

“Yes, that was her. Turns out my divorce is out.” I informed her as she munched on the small chops she brought.

“No it isn’t. But now that she is aware, best believe it’s gonna be all over the news by the end of this week.” I huffed at that.

“But are you good? You are literally stress eating.” I pointed out and she sighed deeply.

“Of course, I am. I want this night to go perfectly.” She told me and I patted her back.

“It’s going to go well, it is going well.” I assured and she smiled a little, relaxing.

“What would I do without you?” She asked and I shrugged. “Probably thrive or cry.” She laughed standing up.

“Now let me introduce you to a bunch of people.” She dragged me up despite my protest.

I met her parents who I hadn’t seen in a long time and they embraced me warmly. While she introduced me, I loved the fact that no one knew about me, no family ties, infact no means of occupation or even the fact that I was married to the very own Nathaniel King. While we were together, many didn’t even know as I failed to accompany him to events just as he instructed.

To everyone I was simply Lydia. They were the ones who would go ahead to research about me.

“To the Bride and Groom.” A toast was made by one of Darren’s friends, Lucas. Lorena had asked to probably put me on with him and I refused adamantly. I was completely good without any man in my life.

“To the bride and groom.” We all chorused raising up a glass. The two shared a kiss and we all looked at them with loving eyes.

I walked out of the hall in search of the bathroom and met Andrew still talking on the phone with someone. Speaking in a hushed tone.

“Look, I’m busy. I will call you when I can.”

Who could this person be? I stared at him with suspicious eyes and he jumped when he met my eyes.

“I will call you back.” He said to the unknown person.

“Work.” He informed me with a weird smile and I nodded, keeping my thoughts to myself.