You're still keeping all of us going.
Chapter: 50. Wedding day at Bailbrook House.
Henry and Dot had arranged to collect his brother Gerald so they could all travel to Bath together. Gerald was more than delighted when Henry asked him to be his best man; he'd met Dot on several occasions and had been utterly charmed by her forthright approach to things, even telling Henry she was a keeper who would surely keep him on his toes. After dropping Dot off at the James house Henry and Gerald were heading off to Bailbrook House, where they had booked in for the night. Being a stickler for tradition Henry had chosen to spend the night apart from Dot, citing his reasons as it being unlucky to see the bride before the ceremony. Dot thought it a daft idea given they were living together anyway 'What's another night?' she'd questioned while they were both standing on the doorstep, only to be told he had no intention of tempting fate; he wanted the rest of his life to be a happy one and if that meant one night apart, so be it! Noticing she needed a little more convincing he smoothed a finger down her cheek, and uttered a few gentle words 'You Dorothy Smith make me happier than I have ever been, plus I want that excited anticipation of waiting to see my bride in all her finery. So do this one thing for me darling and I promise to spend the rest of my life being grateful!' He kissed her tenderly.
'Well, if you put it like that she chortled I guess I can live wiv that!' She smiled walking him down the steps towards the waiting car 'Ere 'enry she called out as he was getting back into the car don't get too much of a fat 'ead tonight, I want to know you're only seein one of me tomorra!' she laughed 'as long as it cuts both ways, he bantered back through the open window remember to put the cork back in before the bottle is finished! He grinned cheekily sleep tight my love and I'll see you tomorrow!' Molly watched her Nan as she waived until his car was out of sight 'come on Nan she called down the steps lets get you settled shall we?' As Dot nodded she slowly walked up to the front door 'it's mad init Molls, when 'e ain't there it's like part of me is missin!'
'Yep! Molly smiled, throwing a comforting arm around her shoulder I'm like that when Charles has to go away on exercise it's called being in love! She kissed her cheek Tea?'
'Yeah, I could murder a brew!' Dot laughed. Halfway through drinking their tea Dot's phone burst into life, Molly reached for it first 'it's the part of you that's missing!' she smiled handing her the phone.
'Hi darling, I've just got settled into the room and I was missing you so I thought I'd call!'
'Aw I was missing you too!' Dot lowered her voice so Molly wouldn't think she'd gone a bit soft, taking the hint Molly extracted herself from the table to let her Nan have a few quiet words.
'What are you up to?' Henry asked, not quite believing he was missing her as much as he was 'just havin a cuppa wiv my fave granddaughter, what about you?'
'I've just unpacked and I'm about to check on some emails then I'm meeting the wedding planner to go over the final arrangements. I could do with a little snooze after all that actually, it seems strange you not being here Dot, we've hardly been apart; and I've gotten very used to our special kind of 40 winks together!' He chuckled 'well not to worry, not long now 'enry and we can have as many 40 winks as you like! Ooh before I forget, did you manage to sort out the other thing we spoke about?'
'Yes, don't worry darling it's all in hand!'
'Good! It's the least we can do! Look I'd better go Molly said something about a face-pack, giv me a bell after yer dinner wiv Gerald, I just wanna make sure you're ok!'
'Ok, will do! Oh and Dot Henry stalled 'I can't wait to see you tomorrow!'
'Me either ya soppy git! See ya tomorra, I'll be the one in the long frock 'oldin onto a posy of Gerberas and Lily of the Valley!'
'Ok, I'll watch out for you then!' He laughed, 'see you soon darling!'
Molly had overheard her Nan's part of their conversation, it was so sweet to find love at their age; Nan had been so right all the times she told Molly there's a goodun just waiting in the wings and now her Nan had found hers. Molly's inner monologue was in full flight as she went through everything in her mind. This is going to be a lovely day she thought inwardly, Charles always maintains that when people are happy it shines out of them, I just hope my speech goes down well, and doesn't put a dampener on the proceedings! Charles reckons it's really good, and he promised to be 100% by my side if I need him, I just hope I don't cry too much! Oh well, face-pack time, Nan wants to look fabulous tomorrow, can't wait to see Henry's face when Nan rocks up looking gorgeous on Charles arm, and him wearing his full dress uniform. There's no-way she would have asked my Dad to do it, as far as Nan's concerned; it's Charles all the way. Molly had to chuckle, they're like partners in crime those two; they've got such a cute connection, it seemed only right Charles does the honours especially since it was us that brought Nan and Henry together. God I can't believe how excited I am for her, it's almost the same feeling as our wedding's, I'm gonna make sure she looks absolutely beautiful! Pulling herself back to the present she called out
'Come on Nan, it's time to make you beautiful for your big day!'
As Henry checked his emails he was surprised to see a message from Penelope,
Henry
A little bird told me you have a rather big event coming up! Pandora ran into Gerald in town, it seems he told her he was acting as your best man. I must say I was a little surprised that you hadn't seen fit to inform me yourself, but then again since the divorce I'm assuming you felt it was no longer any of my concern. I want you to know I wish you well, I too have a new partner; he is a wonderful man. A wealthy widower whom I met by chance when he booked the chateau for his daughters wedding. So it would seem as one door closes another one opens. Maybe we aren't such bad people after all, although our particular chapter has ended; we both have new people in our lives, resulting in life moving on for both of us.
Good luck and kind regards
Penelope.
As Henry read through the email again, he realised her good wishes were somewhat of a smokescreen. Reading it again he concluded it was nothing but tit for tat! Heavily disguised in her well wishes was the fact she had a new wealthy partner, let's just hope he keeps a tight reign on his bank balance he chuckled, before too long she'll be back to her old ways. Note to self! Show Dot this feeble attempt at making me jealous he laughed. Right, enough of this nonsense I have more important things to attend to, like meeting the wedding planner and making sure everything is perfect for my bride. Standing at the back of the ceremony room he could see the attention to detail Bailbrook House had made. Each chair was draped in white fabric with bronze trimmings tied in a bow to match the colour of the bride's outfit. Henry had already had his orders for the colour of tie he needed to wear, so was delighted when he realised how their chosen colour scheme continued through to the dining area where their reception would be held. The isle was flanked with pedestal vases containing silk flowers in Autumnal colours. The top table had an arrangement in similar hues and the backdrop was a floor to ceiling curtained wall covering matching the drapes swathed around the large windows that illuminated the room. The sweetie station Dot had ordered had been set up with everything from gourmet jelly beans to gobstoppers, Dot had said would it keep the kids amused for hours, and they wouldn't be anywhere near the aftermath of the sugar rush that was bound to hit once they'd all gone home. They had decided on silk flowers due to them heading off on honeymoon on the following Monday morning, Dot couldn't bare the thought that real flowers would perish whilst they were away, so Molly had be charged with keeping the flowers safe until they returned so they could position them in the house once they got back home. Henry met with the registrar to go over final details relating to his divorce, indicating he was free to marry again. And the chef had agreed to serve him samples of the wedding feast for his dinner that night, just so he could iron out anything Henry wasn't happy with. As far as Henry was concerned the whole setting was magnificent, the elegant Georgian building was stunning. Each window showed a different aspect of the grounds, with their avenue of trees, superbly kept shrubs and the finely manicured lawns. As he strolled quietly around the grounds his mind wandered to the photographs, allowing himself time to stand and look around for special places to be photographed with his bride, he smiled inwardly; this is where we start to make our memories! Our wedding day photographs can't fail to be stunning, especially with a backdrop like this he thought; now all I need is my bride by my side.
Dot was having a few jitters she wanted everything to be perfect, she'd never really been comfortable being the centre of attention before; but since Henry had come into her life, things had changed, now all she wanted to do was make him proud of her. 'Come on Charles she'd asked 'I've gotta get this right! Walk me down the hallway again just so I get the right rhythm in me 'ead!'
Remaining patient with her Charles tucked her arm through his and guided her through it once again 'ready?' he motioned with his head 'one step, then feet together, now the other foot and feet together!' Turning to face his grandmother in law he gently soothed 'that was perfect! You've got this Dot, there's no rush, just savour the moment! You know something? By the time the music is playing and you see Henry, all your nerves will fly out of the window!' It'll be just fine, you are my little star after all, are you not?'
'I am!' Dot nodded 'you won't let me make a tit of meself though will ya?'
'Promise Dot!' he kissed her on the cheek 'Just check with Molly, I only produce star recruits! And I have agreed to wear the full dress uniform for you, so no pressure!'
'Sword an all?'
'Yes Dot, sword an all!' He smiled warmly.
'Lovely!' She giggled 'I'll be right posh then won't I? I'll 'av me very own Major seein me down the isle!''
'He's only on loan mind!' Molly laughed, popping her head around the doorframe, she moved towards Charles imagining the sight of her husband in his dress uniform. Draping her arm around his waist she looked deep into his eyes, 'and watch out for that sword, She addressed towards her Nan 'it gets right in the way when you're dancing! I should know, he stayed in it all day at our first wedding!' she laughed, looking back at him 'he looked totally amazing though!' She uttered, smiling tenderly, bringing herself back to the present she continued 'right Elizabeth and Edward are collecting the kids early so we can concentrate on you! It's a big day for all of us tomorrow, so I'm taking my major to bed!' She snuggled close to him 'can't have him not looking the nuts tomorrow can we? Night Nan, she kissed her cheek 'try to get some rest!'
'Night loves, see you in the morning!' Dot smiled at the pair of them, watching Charles rest his arm around Molly's shoulder before they took the stairs together.
'Totally amazing eh?' He crooned, giving Molly an Eskimo kiss as they walked upstairs. Closing their bedroom door he pulled her back into his arms 'should I change back into the dress uniform for you afterwards then?' He caressed her cheek and jaw with his index finger 'I could even get a bit bossy if you like! And we do have a date remember?' He smirked, flicking his eyes from her mouth to those amazing green eyes that still made his chest hitch 'Luca and Sam will be with my parent's!' He reasoned before achingly slowly leaning down to kiss her willing lips 'lovely!' she purred 'our first wedding night all over again!' She wound her arms around his neck 'will you be doing that thing with your sword again?' She giggled 'try and stop me!' he growled, his mouth and another prominent region twitching at the memory 'It could definitely be a another night to remember!' he raised an eyebrow, pulling her flush against him and kissing her again with all the passion of their early days together. 'Not one to tell the grandkids about though!' she muttered 'Nah! He murmured back 'this is just for us!'
So far it had been one very busy morning, while Molly had been running around getting Luca and Sam clothes ready for the wedding, reception and their overnight stay with the grandparents. Charles was trying to persuade Luca to eat the last of the baby porridge he had hurriedly prepared for her. Sam was bending his Dad's ear, trying to talk him into letting him wear his favourite aftershave; as it was a such a special occasion he'd tried to reason when Dot sailed into the kitchen with distinctly torturous looking spikes poking out of the large rollers she had in her hair, and acting as cool as a cucumber. 'Giv it 'ere!' she took the bowl and spoon from Charles 'you need to start sprucing yerself up mate! That stubble needs some serious attention! Go on, move that gorgeous arse, and fer christs sakes don't cut yerself, I wan't you spick and span! This is a big day! I ain't 'avin you wiv bits of tissue stuck all over yer mush!'
'I'm an Army man Dot!' he winked before kissing her head 'I promise no razor nicks! See you later Sam! He ruffled his hair 'Listen to Grandma and Grand-pop and look out for your little sister, Ok?'
'Got it Dad, now can I have just a little bit of you aftershave…pleeese!'
'Go on then, but not too much Sam! He warned 'it's bloody expensive stuff!'
'How's Nan?' Molly enquired as Charles stuck his head around the nursery door 'Cool as anything! She's just ordered me out of the way to get shaved!'
'Blimey, I thought she'd be a bag of nerves; I know I am! I just want everything to be perfect for her!'
'It will be Molls, stop worrying!'
'Do you think she'll like our present?' She mouthed packing the little satin shoes to match Luca's outfit into the case.
'Molls baby he rested his hand on her shoulder, lowering his voice in case Dot overheard him 'what's not to love about being driven to your wedding in a vintage Rolls Royce?' He rolled his eyes kissing her briefly, all too briefly as far as Molly was concerned 'Oi you! Now I know you can do better than that! She demanded with her hands on her hips and her green eyes flashing in his direction 'I need calming down, so get your lips over here and give me a proper kiss Major James!'
'Happy to oblige Mrs James!' He grinned cheekily, brushing her hair away from her face and consuming her into a passionate kiss 'that's just to reminder, you're on a promise later!' He winked ducking out of the way before the towelling robe belonging to Luca she was packing made its way to his backside.
With the children having been collected by Elizabeth and Edward picking up the Dawes clan from the station Molly turned her attention to her Nan, removing the curlers but not yet brushing her hair into it's final style she set about making up Dot's face and eyes. 'Lets just do your makeup and hair, then you can have a little quiet time until it's time to get dressed! I'll sort myself out then make sure my husband is all lovely and sparkly for you! Ok?'
'I'm in your 'ands gel, just keep it subtle. I don't wanna look like no painted lady!' As Molly set to work they had a lovely time laughing and joking about all the fun times they'd had when she was growing up. When Dot mentioned how pleased she was with the results of her makeover Molly took it as her cue to let her relax whilst she began to sort herself and Charles out. Finding him in the bathroom with just a towel around his waist and carefully shaving away the last of his stubble, she stood to admire his semi naked form 'have you showered yet?' She asked catching his gaze in the mirror 'not yet! He turned swiftly 'why? Fancy saving some water with me?' He chuckled, rubbing the remnants of his saving foam all over her face 'Ugh!' She laughed 'Now you're definitely joining me in that shower! But no funny business, we ain't got time!' As she stood with her back to him allowing him to wash her hair she felt that familiar feeling in the pit of her does such a simple act turn into something so erotic she wondered? Whenever he used his hands to spread the shower gel over her body instead of a scrunchie, she was putty in his hands. 'Charles baby, she breathed heavily closing her eyes to the stirrings he was arousing in her we can't; there's not enough t…..'
'Sssh!' he whispered in her ear '5 minutes baby, just relax! And let me calm you down!' Before she could protest she felt his hands moving south '5 minutes then!' She managed, as he took control, relaxing her in his own special way.
It still made her gasp at how utterly handsome he was in his dress uniform; reaching up to straighten his epaulettes, she fixed him with a sultry gaze. 'I swear Charles James seeing you dressed like this does unspeakable things to me!'
'So the old uniform working it's magic again eh?' He smouldered 'maybe I should just keep it on all day if that's the effect it has on you then!' Biting her bottom lip she offered 'not sure if I could cope with you looking all sexy while the ceremony is going on, I might struggle not to jump you in front of all the guests!' She raised an eyebrow at him.
'So the uniform is that powerful eh?' He chuckled pulling her into a passionate kiss 'Yesss!' She admitted 'but just for clarity, it's the man in the uniform that does it for me everytime!' She playfully prodded his chest 'Now go so I can amaze you with my chosen outfit!' Pecking her swiftly, he nodded leaving her to create the magic that he just knew would knock his socks off. Making his way down the stairs he heard Dot call out 'Charlie, come 'ere mate I need me zip pulled up, close your eyes mind I don't want ya copin a view of me frillies, that's fer me old man later! She laughed.
'Dot he protested how the hell do I pull up a zipper without looking what I'm doing?'
'You're a man ain't ya? Feel your way!' She laughed again 'I'll open tha door a smidge so ya don't get a full view then!' Positioning her back to the open door he dutifully pulled up the zipper for her. 'Right! now off you go! I'm just putting on the finishing touches, then be prepared to be amazed!' Chuckling to himself as he descended the stairs, he didn't think he had ever seen or for that fact heard Dot so eager to look perfect before. Henry had definitely changed her outlook on things, and dare he even think it; she seemed much softer these days, almost all of the barbed remarks had disappeared and in their place she was far more considered. The only person she now reserved those types of comments for was Dave, but who knows; if he managed to get himself a job, maybe things might improve in that direction as well. As he tapped his fingers on the console table in the hallway, he took a peek through the security peephole to make sure the car was outside waiting to take the bride to her destination. Opening the door he attracted the attention of the chauffer, '10 minutes ok?' 'Sir!' The driver called back.
A few moments later Molly glided down the stairs in a dove grey bodycon dress that hugged her breasts and bump in the most glorious way. She'd chosen wickedly high tangerine heels, matching bag and fascinator to fit in with the autumnal colours of her Nan and Henry's colour scheme. Holding her arms wide he spun her around 'bloody hell Molls! You look amazing! Utterly beautiful!' He gasped his mind already wandering to after the reception 'I just knew you'd be driving me crazy all day!' He gulped checking on the final piece of the puzzle that was formulating his lustful thoughts 'did you wear the underwear I got you?' He questioned quietly into her ear? Pulling back so she could see his eyes darkening with desire 'You'll have to wait and see Charles James!' She teased grinning at him and loving the fact that even though she was pregnant she could still turn him to jelly ' just hold onto that thought until later, she pecked his lips we don't want she cast her eyes downwards any suspicious looking bulges spoiling the cut of your uniform do we? Well not until later anyway!' She held his gaze.
'Molly!' He caressed her bottom, 'think it might be a bit late for that!' He adjusted himself 'darling' he pleaded closing his eyes to the vision of his sexy wife's outfit 'can you please just get in the Range Rover he implored…before things really get out of hand, and no wiggling as you walk down the steps or I might be in further trouble and your Nan wouldn't thank me for that!' He grinned 'Fank you for what? Dot asked, as they both turned to watch her carefully walking down the stairs 'Nan, you look fantastic!' Molly exclaimed! 'Here's your flowers, I'm just getting the car started!' Now behave yourself Nan, my man is only on loan she stood next to him smoothing her hand over his backside and giving it a gentle squeeze 'once he's walked you down the Isle, he's mine again! So no funny business in the car! Got it?'
'Yeh, yeh I got it!' Dot winked at Charles, scaring him half to death in the knowledge she also had a thing about his rear end.
'You look radiant Dot!' He smiled warmly 'Are you ready?'
'As I'll ever be mate!' Dot confirmed, her mouth dropping open at the sight of the vintage Rolls Royce waiting at the bottom of the steps 'wot the f…, sorry wot's that?' She gasped 'it's our wedding present to you!' Charles told her leading her down the steps 'Molly and I wanted to do something special for you, we wanted to give you a stylish send off! Do you like it?'
'Like it Charlie, it's bloody brilliant mate!' She hugged him, breaking free to kiss Molly who was standing back slightly capturing her reaction on her phone. 'Only the best for you Nan, you deserve it! Now hop in, I'm following in the Range Rover we'll need it later to get home again!'
'I wouldn't bank on it!' Dot laughed as she allowed Charles to guide her into the Rolls. 'What's she on about?' Molly looked at Charles with a puzzled look on her face. Shrugging his shoulders he pulled an equally confused face 'Dunno He kissed her briefly maybe she's been at the Gin, I'll see you there gorgeous!' He winked donning his cap to complete the look 'do I pass inspection madam?' he asked his wife 'put it this way she kissed a finger to her lips before pressing it gently against his 'you're definitely on that promise later!'
'Right! He smirked, trying to get his mind back on the task in hand of walking Dot down the isle.
As the opening bars of 'Clare De Lune' by Debussy began to play, Charles straightened his back; holding out his arm Dot placed her arm through his. 'Ready?' He enquired 'Slowly does it!' He reminded heras they moved in time to the beautiful tones of the piano as she focused on the handsome man standing at the top of the room. Henry turned to face her, almost in slow motion with what she surmised to be an emotional smile on his face. Charles had maintained that all her nerves would disappear the moment she set eyes on Henry, she had to admit he'd been right; all she wanted to do was rush her steps in order to get to him but instead she heeded Charles advice and held back savouring every moment. As Charles unfurled her arm, he took her hand in his kissing the back of it and whispering 'this is it Dot, your future, enjoy every last bit of it!' He gently laid her hand in Henry's before taking his place next to Molly.
'Welcome one and all!' The registrar began
'We are all gathered here today on this wonderful occasion to witness and celebrate the marriage between Dorothy and Henry!'
'Would everyone please be seated for the ceremony to begin, Dorothy and Henry would you please stand facing one another to make your vows!' After the civil part of the wedding ceremony had taken place both Henry and Dot added a few words of their own before exchanging rings.
'Dorothy' Henry held her hands and looked lovingly into her eyes 'from the moment I met you my life has gotten better in so many ways. You single handedly took away my loneliness and replaced it with something wonderful. In you I have found the greatest love I have ever known, and the best friend I didn't realise I was missing. Through your caring ways, your somewhat wicked sense of humour and never ending support, I am finally a very happy man. From this day forward I vow to make you as happy as humanly possible. I will love and care for you always, and cherish every moment we share together!' Dot felt overcome at Henry's declaration, there was a time that saying those kind of things in front of others would have seemed a bit soft; but here, in front of those that loved them both it just seemed right. For her it was almost as if everyone else simply melted away and they were having a private conversation. Smiling back at him she began to make her own speech.
''Enry when we first met I knew you was a goodun! There wos just sumfing about you, at the end of our first meeting; you'd already got under my skin, and when I went back 'ome I found meself missing you! For me, you very quickly became my whole world. I never fought a bloke like you would look twice at a rough diamond like me, but you did and pretty soon we were inseparable. From this day forward I vow to love you and cherish every moment we get to be together!' As they grinned broadly at each other the registrar proclaimed them husband and wife. As Henry leant down to kiss his wife, a huge cheer went up from all the guests in attendance. Molly and Charles were the first to reach the couple pulling them both into congratulatory hugs 'Well Mrs Forrester, you've been and gone and done it!' Molly whispered in her ear 'I really couldn't be happier for you Nan, you so deserve to be happy!' Belinda drew close 'Aw Mum, congratulations. You look lovely, an I gotta say you got a smashing bloke an all! 'e'll look after ya, I jus know 'e will!'
'Fanks gels!' Dot uttered hugging both her daughter and eldest granddaughter 'you're right it's my time now! No more struggling wiv a bloke who don't give a toss! I've found me goodun! And by some bleedin miracle "e loves me! I swear to you both, I'm gunna do everything in me power to treasure every single moment!' Reaching to hold Dot's hand Henry guided her to the table to sign the register, 'Lets make this official darling! No more Dorothy Smith, It's Mrs Dorothy Forrester from now on; I really like the sound of that!' He smiled kissing her again' it makes me very proud!' As they all signed in the appropriate places on the marriage certificate the photographer began recording the memories of their special day. 'Listen mate!' Dot looked up at the photographer 'make sure you get some corking shots on your whatsitname, we've waited a long time to get our 'appy. Don't muck it up for us, we want to remember this day with smiles and laughter; not a bunch of stiff pictures alright?'
'Well Mrs Forrester, how about you and your husband just take a walk around the grounds, and we'll just see what memories we can create for you, ok? In my experience, when you see a happy bride and groom, you've already got the right ingredients; so this should be a piece a cake!' He smiled reassuringly before capturing a lovely shot as Henry and Dot looked into each other's eyes and grinned broadly.
The celebratory meal had been delicious, the atmosphere was warm and convivial; and now it was time for the speeches before the younger of the guests were drawn to the sugary delights of the sweetie station.
Molly stood clearing her throat and tapping gently on the side of her glass, 'don't worry Nan, Molly laughed. This speech isn't about funny stories, nor is about some of the; shall we say unorthodox methods she raised her eyebrows you've used in the past to help keep your family's head above water!'
'Ladies, gentlemen and children Molly began. 'This is a little insight into the woman I have the privilege of calling my Nan. Someone who's always called me her little angel and someone who would move heaven and earth to protect her family! It's also about how much I love this very special lady!' She smiled, looking at her grandmother with the softest of look in her eyes.
'When I was growing up, no matter what was troubling me; my Nan would listen, make me stand back and take a deep breath, just to consider how to go about changing negative things that were affecting my life.
Looking directly at Dot, Molly continued to sing her praises. 'You never judged me Nan, you never dictated what I should do; you only ever encouraged me to live my life and to see the bigger picture. You taught me that I was in charge of my own destiny and if you want something you need to work hard for it. Turning back to address the room, Molly swallowed hard knowing a few people present may begin to understand why she turned to her Nan so much.
Nan was the first person I told when I wanted to join the Army; she was my support system when others thought I would fail. Charles observed as Dave's head dropped, the feeling of remorse clearly obvious on his face. He certainly hadn't covered himself in glory at a time when his eldest daughter had needed his support and acceptance; and banning the rest of the family, especially Belinda from keeping in touch with her eldest daughter had done more damage than he ever thought possible. 'Nan would always write me lovely letters when I was away on tour; she made me feel loved even though I was so far away from everything I'd ever known. Belinda dropped her own head at this point, she was fully aware that allowing Dave to dictate to her had cost her dearly. She'd missed out on that special time with her eldest daughter when she possibly needed her the most. The Army had seen her grow in confidence as well as into an independent woman. Molly had achieved great things in her Army career, all without any input from Belinda and Dave. So now, listening to her daughter confidently give an emotional speech about her love for her Nan the moment was somewhat bitter sweet; there was a sad realisation that they had lost something along the way. Belinda loved her daughter dearly but she also knew they had become completely different people whilst she was in the army. Molly no longer needed her guidance, and rarely asked her advice on things anymore, relationships are only ever as strong as those you nurture; the only consolation she had was that her own Mum had made sure Molly felt loved when she and Dave hadn't. As Molly held Dot's hand, they both struggled to contain the tears, hearing Molly struggle to contain the lump in her throat Charles stood next to his wife, wrapping her in the safety of his touch as he always did, he gently whispered in her ear; encouraging her to continue. With a gentle nod she composed herself and carried on.
Nan, her voice faltered a little.
Reading how proud of me you were kept me going! I could hear your voice in my head telling me I was doing something amazing with my life! I'm convinced it's because of you and your belief in me that my Army career was such a success. And of course it lead me to meeting the love of my life; my amazing husband Charles, who I'm sure has taken notes from you on how to keep me in check! She laughed as she leant into Charles supportive hold, winking conspiratorially at Dot; Charles then tenderly kissed the top of Molly's head. With renewed steel Molly delivered the last part of her speech.
For those of you who don't know, my Nan is the most caring and wise old owl I know, I've learnt more from her than I have time to share; and I want to thank her for guiding me and helping me be the woman I am today. She put her own life on hold to make sure her family had everything they needed both emotionally and physically. Seeing her so happy with a man who loves her dearly is all I've ever wanted for her. Henry is Nan's 'Goodun' it took a long time to find him; but as she once told me there's a 'goodun' out there for everyone; you just have to keep looking, know what you want and never settle for second best!
They broke the mould when they made my Nan; she truly is one of life's true treasures. As she held her glass up high, she announced her final declaration of love my heart, my Nan Dot, and the man who finally gave her the happy ever after she was missing for so many years; her wonderful husband Henry. Raise your glasses everyone to the bride and groom, may there only ever be happiness ahead for both of you.
As all the guests stood up to raise their glassesDot pulled her into a warm embrace 'I love you gel, you've always bin my little angel. I always knew you 'ad wot it took to change fings, if I 'elped along the way; then that's a good fing, but it was always you Molls. You 'ad it in yer! I just loved ya is all!'
'I love you Nan, you're the best!' she smiled a watery smile at her 'and Henry' she reached across to kiss his cheek 'I love the fact you're now family!' she cupped his face 'go and have a happy life together, oh: and keep the key to our place cos when my hubby finally gets round to getting that extension done, our home is your forever bolthole! We may be needing a little help when the twins arrive!' She laughed.
Standing back Molly smiled at the celebrations playing out in front of her, the kids were all paying particular attention to the sweetie station, whilst Dave was whisking Belinda around the dance floor and doing his best not to create too much havoc from drinking too many beers. Henry and Dot seemed stuck together like glue, their PDA on full view; almost like a pair of teenagers. Charles snuck up behind her, winding his arms around her waist 'Hey gorgeous he breathed into her ear penny for them?'
'Nothing really! She leaned back into his hold 'I was just thinking what a great day it's been, they look so happy don't they?' She gazed in her Nan and Henry's direction 'they certainly do!' He answered kissing her neck 'and they've done something pretty special for us too!' He told her, as she swung round to face him 'what?' she cocked her head on one side 'they've booked us in here for the night!' He grinned.
'Seriously?' Molly gasped 'why..why would they do that?' she choked out.
'Because my darling, they love us, and I told Henry it was our special place but we only got to stay here on special occasions these days!'
'Sooo!' Molly moved in as close as she could get, bump permitting 'we can do that sword thing?'
'That we can Mrs James, that we can!' He kissed her passionately 'and I can't bloody wait!' He kissed her hand with a look that carried a thousand promises 'but before that, fancy a twirl?'
'Lead on major! Molly giggled 'Just take your sword off for the time being though!'
