A/N: One more chapter to go! (Maybe two. Hehe.) For the meantime, please check out my other stories or my new story Just a Simple Set of Letters.
I hope this update will help you get through the COVID19 quarantine. Please stay at home. Wash your hands and avoid touching MEN (Mouth, Eyes, Nose). Let's flatten the curve together.
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Enjoy! :)
Chapter 21 - No Turning Back
Annabeth's POV
I was torn between staying in bliss and getting enough rest for the big event. Even though sleep won, the excitement cut my slumber short. I woke up feeling full of energy and still in my euphoric state.
With me as the little spoon, I turned back and looked at Luke. He was still fast asleep. So peaceful and just as handsome. I gingerly pulled my left arm away from underneath his, which was draped over me. I slightly lifted my left hand in the air to admire my ring. I've always dreamed my engagement ring to be something like this. It was perfect, the fit and the design. It was a thin white gold band, probably around one millimeter in diameter, with a single medium sized vertical baguette cut blue diamond. The ring was very dainty. I loved it.
Luke stirred in his sleep and tightened his hold around my waist. He pulled me closer to him, buried his face in the crook of my neck, and took a deep breath. I put my hand over his and cautiously started playing with his hand and fingers to which he slowly responded by uncurling his fingers.
"Good morning, future missus." He whispered.
My heart skipped a beat. "Future missus." I repeated.
"Isn't that what the ring is for?"
"Did I tell you how much I love the ring?"
He chuckled. "Numerous times."
I looked back at him and smiled. He rolled on top of me, supporting his weight on his elbows which were on both sides of my head. He stared into my eyes. His mischievously charming smile made me feel all warm inside. I buried my fingers in his soft hair, lightly pulling it as I balled my fists.
"Which is good because I love seeing you wear it." He continued.
There was a brief pause where we stared at each other and looking down at the other's lips before simultaneously I pulled him down to me and he dove straight for my lips. We kissed each other with so much gusto. It made my toes curl but that didn't stop me from moving around. When Luke scooted a bit, I sat up and tried to get on top of him. He eventually wrapped his arms around me and turned us over. We pulled away, breathing hard and trying to catch our breath. Smiles spread across our faces before we reached for each other once again.
Gods, I'm excited to spend the rest of my life with him.
I tied my robe shut and looked at Luke who was busy looking for his clothes on the floor. I gave him a kiss as I passed him and announced that I would be making coffee. I blankly stared at the living room while absentmindedly running my thumb over my ring again and again. When my eyes landed on the clock and saw what time it was, the event today dawned on me.
I ran up and threw on whatever clothes I touched, explaining to Luke what I had to do: get Percy's car from the gentlemen's club, fetch Percy, get the loft ready, and more. He was very calm and stayed out of my way. He even offered to walk Onion and tidy up.
The sun was out today so I made sure I was wearing my sunglasses before I step out. I grabbed my clutch from last night and dashed out the door. I got on the first taxi I could hail. A couple alarms were missed. I rummaged through my things for Percy's car keys and came across our friendship ring, which I remember throwing in. Looks like I wouldn't be needing this anymore.
I got Percy's car and drove to his building. He wasn't downstairs like I instructed him before. I prayed to the gods that he wasn't hungover. After parking the car, I went up to his door and let myself in since he had a set of house keys attached to his car keys.
"Annabeth?" He called out as soon as the door creaked open.
"Am I really the first person you'd call out?" I teased.
He appeared in the living room, looking distraught. I ran over to him and hugged him. Well, at least he wasn't hungover. I soothed him, asking him what's wrong but he didn't say anything. Percy just clutched me closer to him and took deep breaths through his nose. It took a while for him to finally calm down.
I let go of him and asked. "Pre-wedding jitters?"
When he didn't say anything again, I sighed. I held his face with one hand while the other pushed back his hair. He had tired and dull eyes. Gods, I thought Nico took care of Percy last night. I gently rubbed his cheek with my thumb and I could feel him ease up and rest his head against my hand. He held my wrist and sighed.
"You're going to do great. Today is your day, Seaweed Brain."
"You don't think I'm making a mistake?" He asked and I was taken aback. "Maybe I'm rushing into this."
If only Thalia and Nico were here, they would be throwing confetti everywhere.
"As a best woman, I'm supposed to give you moral support today," I started but sighed, "but as your friend, if you're having second thoughts, maybe you should really think it through."
"I..." He trailed off and he looked very confused.
"Why don't we sit down and talk over a cup of coffee?" I smiled softly at him.
We moved to the kitchen and I made us coffee. He was awfully quiet, which meant I would be the one doing the talking. I honestly have no idea what to tell Percy. I don't even have a best woman speech written. Oh no. That added to my panic. But then again, it might be a good thing that I don't have anything if Percy backs out of this.
"Alright." I said as I set our mugs in front of us. "How are you?"
"Tired." He let out a big sigh and cupped his mug, keeping his eyes on it. "Confused." He chuckled.
"Maybe I should've prepared sleepy tea for you." I eyed his coffee. "What happened?"
"A lot of things happened and it made me think and reflect." He avoided my gaze at first but slowly looked me in the eyes.
Like last night. I think it's safe to assume that we were both thinking that.
"As your best woman, I think it's normal to have second thoughts. Wondering if it's the right thing to do, if it's with the right person, and/or if it's the right time doesn't mean that you're marrying the wrong person. It could mean that you're taking the marriage seriously." Thank the gods I decided to read up on having second thoughts about getting married.
"As Annabeth?" His eyes were pleading.
I felt myself soften. "As your best friend, don't think about the wedding. The expenses, the guests, forget those. Be as selfish as you want when it comes to that. Postpone in. Cancel it. This is your day as well and if you're not comfortable with pushing through with it then don't. If you're trying to fix your relationship with marriage, it won't solve anything. You might end up spending your whole marriage regretting it. Besides, as a lawyer, getting a divorce can get expensive."
He seemed to relax but I can tell that he was still mulling about it. I placed my hand over his, rubbing the back of his hand with my thumb. He took a deep breath and laid his other hand on mine.
"Maybe you should sleep on it." I suggested. "We're not rushing." We kind of were but I didn't want him to feel pressured.
A small, tired smile slowly spread across his face.
"Come on. Leave the coffee." I got up and brought him to his room.
With the air-conditioning blasting cool air, I made him wear the comfiest pajamas he had. I drew the curtains shut and tucked him in. I went back to the kitchen and prepared some sleepy tea to help him ease his nerves. Once I was alone, I could feel myself panic.
Gods. Okay. I expected something like this but I didn't expect it to be this serious. I am at wits end. What in the gods' names should I do?
I got my phone and called Nico.
"Annabeth? Where are you? People wedding related started arriving." Nico answered.
In my most hushed voice, I explained as I walked back and forth in the kitchen. "Percy is having pre-wedding jitters. I made him sleep for a while. He looks like a wreck. I thought you took care of him last night!"
"I did!" He insisted. "Gods, how serious is it? Do you want me to come over?"
"He asked me if I think he was making a mistake. If he was rushing into it. You should have seen him!" I felt my voice rising so I took a deep breath. "I think I can handle him. Please just keep everyone there on schedule and don't mention anything to anyone."
"Okay. Just keep me updated." He sighed.
The whistling kettle went off, surprising me. I turned it off and poured the hot water in the mug. I watched the water turn brown before bringing it to Percy's room. He sat up and took a sip.
I was about to leave when I heard him whisper. "Please stay."
I felt myself soften once again. I can't leave him all alone when he's this vulnerable. I climbed up on the bed and stayed with him until he fell asleep. His head was on my lap and I gently ran my fingers through his hair.
Gods, Percy, you're not making this easy.
I didn't know what time it was or how long we stayed there. No sunlight entered the room and I left my phone in the kitchen. I was just expecting someone to burst in, looking for Percy. Maybe Thalia and Nico with smiles that reached ear to ear.
Percy moved closer to me and took a deep breath, causing me to wake up from a nap I didn't know I was taking. I gingerly moved away the hair from his face and as I moved my hand, I saw his sea green eyes squinting at me.
"Hi." I whispered.
"Hello." He smiled groggily at me.
"Feeling better?"
"Yeah, napping helped."
"Made up your mind?"
He shook his head with his lips in a thin line.
"Hmm, maybe it would help if you had the feel of the preparation?"
He made a face: closed his eyes, scrunched up his eyebrows, and pouted. "Can we just stay here?"
I smiled down at him, running my fingers through his hair again. "We can, if you want."
He looked up at me. "But you're right, that might help."
He got up, stretched, and sluggishly went on his way. I didn't leave him until he went in the bathroom to take a shower. I walked back to the kitchen to retrieve my phone and just my luck, it's dead. I saw a clock in the living room but the hands weren't moving. Gods, really? Well, you can't really expect a busy doctor to change the battery every once in a while and given that that busy doctor is Percy, I was probably the last one who changed that clock's battery. I tried looking out the window. It was sunny and bright outside but that gave me nothing. It's summer so the days are longer.
Okay, completely disregard the fact that everything is not on schedule anymore. My only goal for today is to make sure to give whatever support Percy needs, whether he's going to get married today or not.
First small goal: don't let Percy feel any pressure. I got a saucepan and heated up some milk. I added some dark chocolate, a bit of sugar, a dash of cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla. Percy has a sweet tooth, that's why I was sure all the ingredients I needed was available. I poured the hot cocoa in two mugs and topped it with tiny blue marshmallows.
"Mmm, smells good." Percy said as he sat down on one of the stools by the kitchen island.
"Thought it would make you feel better." I handed him his mug.
"It does. Thank you." He looked down at his mug and smiled widely at me. "You even have the blue marshmallows!"
"Yep. Made it extra special for you." I smiled.
We left his apartment after cleaning up the kitchen. Since I got to drive, I offered to stop by restaurants that served our favorite comfort food so he would have some food in him. He still seemed a little bit zoned out but I couldn't blame him. Deciding whether to get married and spend the rest of your life with someone, unless they get a divorce, requires a lot of thinking.
I ended up getting some takeout before driving back to my building. We went up to my floor and before we entered my unit, I glanced at Percy. He still looked undecided.
"You ready?" I asked.
He took a deep breath and nodded.
I opened the door and the loft went quiet. Everybody looked at us and stopped talking. It seemed like Onion was the only one who was happy to see us. He happily made his way to us with his nails clacking on the floor and his wiggle butt. Percy's entourage was already dressed and the photographer was already there. Nico's face looked as if the weight of the world was off his shoulders. Grover and Connor were asleep on the couch. Luke was nowhere to be found. Travis was in the kitchen, searching for something in the fridge. He couldn't even say some snarky tease to make it less awkward.
I glanced at Percy and I could see him nervously swallow. His face fell and it looked like he was a couple moments away from a breakdown. He took a ragged breath. When Onion jumped at him, it broke his trance.
"Why don't you go on upstairs and I'll follow you in a bit, huh?" I said and handed him the extra paper bags I was carrying from our takeout. I made him go up the stairs along with Onion.
Once he was on his way up to the bedroom, I rushed to Nico.
"What in the gods' name?" He asked me in a quiet but alert voice. "I've been calling and sending you messages."
"I left my phone in the kitchen and I couldn't leave him alone. My phone also died." I rubbed my forehead. "Just very quickly bring me up to speed."
"Everyone is ready. The hair and makeup artist left to help out with Rachel and her entourage. The photographer ended up taking pictures of Onion and your loft. No one knows what's happening."
"Okay. Alright. Everything can still be saved. How long before we have to be in the church?"
"We still have a couple of hours. We can make it." He reassured me. "You just have to make sure Percy's on board with this."
I let out a sharp breath. "I just have to get some food in him. We'll be alright. Nobody has to worry about anything."
I left Nico, got some dinnerware and utensils, and went up to Percy. I found him sitting on the bed with his head on his hands. He looked so hopeless and miserable. Gods, help this man.
"Hey." I started. "Let's have some lunch. I got us our favorite."
He looked up at me. "Everybody hates me."
I knelt in front of him. "No one hates you. They're just a little worried about you."
"I just...just need more time. If I could just have more time." His eyes started to swell which prompted me to wrap my arms around him. I slowly rocked us back and forth as an attempt to comfort him.
"I just don't want to let anyone down." He whispered.
"If something doesn't sit right with you then, maybe getting married or getting married right now isn't right." I sighed. "You're not letting anyone down, Seaweed Brain."
His breathing became steady.
"Come on. Let's have lunch." I offered, still holding him. "Eating our favorite take out in bed while watching our favorite series. Then I have a surprise dessert for you. What do you say?"
He didn't say anything but nodded. I let go of him but held him at arm's length. I studied his face. He still looks the same but managed to get a grip on himself. I kissed his forehead and went to unpack the takeout. I turned on the TV and replayed our favorite series, choosing one of his favorite episodes. I charged my phone because the gods know I'll be needing it soon.
He seemed to ease up, which was good. I feel like I should be freaking out as well. The hair and makeup artist could be telling Rachel that Percy and I were missing. Maybe the photographers know what happened and told Rachel. If Percy decides to get married, I don't have anyone to help me get ready for the ceremony. I don't even have a best woman speech yet! Although to my surprise, I was very laid back about this. While eating and watching, I stealthily sent Silena a message asking her if she could help me get ready for today since the artist Rachel got for me bailed. I got a reply in just seconds. She sent me instructions and told me she will be arriving soon.
"Are you ready for dessert?" I asked but also hyped him up.
"Alright. Hit me with your best shot." He challenged me.
"You just wait."
I brought our plates down along with the packaging of our takeout. It was good that everyone stayed out of my way as I moved around downstairs. It was time to bring out the big guns. I quickly turned on the oven to preheat it. I got a baking tray, retrieved the blue chocolate chip cookie dough I put aside in the freezer, and put it on the tray. It was such a smart move to save some cookie dough. Who knew I'd be prepared for a Percy breakdown? I monitored the cookies baking as I washed our dishes. Once I was done, I waited for the cookies to finish up.
"How are we doing?" Someone asked me as they put their arm over my shoulders and squeezed my arm.
I looked at who it was and felt myself lean against Nico. "I'm still not used to seeing you wear all white."
"I know. I hate it. Don't you?" He scrunched his nose to show his dislike.
I laughed. "I'm fine. Thank you." Even if I didn't specify why I was thanking him, he knew.
Nico brought me closer and rubbed my arm. "You didn't tell me Luke was coming to the wedding as well. He's been very helpful with everything."
"Yeah, he surprised me. He flew in last night." I smiled, looking at Luke who was busy entertaining Travis and the photographer. "How are you guys?"
"Don't worry about us. We can take care of ourselves. I mean, we got ready on our own and so far, everyone's tuxedos are still stark white. You have quite a lot on your plate so we'll just manage ourselves."
"What happened to Grover and Connor?" I nodded towards the knocked-out groomsmen.
"Grover's jetlagged and Connor has a bad hangover."
"Yikes. Wouldn't want to be him. What about the photographer?"
"He took so many solo pictures of us and we had unlimited do overs." He laughed. "Rachel's going to wonder why the photographer doesn't have that much pictures of Percy though."
I didn't say anything.
"How's Percy?" He asked uneasily.
"He's - " I sighed - "he's better compared to a while ago. Gods."
"What do you think will happen?"
"I honestly don't know. He still hasn't made up his mind until now."
The oven timer rang and I got the tray. Nico already moved away from the kitchen and just watched me from afar. I wouldn't want to soil his tuxedo. I let the cookies cool for a bit as I readied a tall glass of cold milk. I scooped all the cookies in a plate and brought that and the milk to Percy.
The look on Percy's face when he saw what dessert I was talking about was priceless. It was the exact look whenever Sally would give him the same cookies when he was younger. The twinkle and happiness in his eyes and the genuine delight shined on his face. There's nothing homemade blue chocolate chip cookies that was buttery and hot with the chips still melting can't solve.
He got a cookie, bit it, closed his eyes, and sighed. "I feel as if Mom had just brushed her hand against my cheek, given me a cookie the way she used to when I was small, and told me everything was going to be okay. Thank you, Wise Girl."
I smiled. "You're welcome." I placed the plate and glass on the bed side table. "I'll leave you with the cookies and just take a quick shower. Is that okay?"
He quietly nodded while munching on the cookies.
"Everything is going to be okay." I placed a hand on his cheek and gently rubbed my thumb against it before heading downstairs.
I took a quick shower and blow dried my hair just as what Silena instructed me to do. I wrapped my floor length silk robe shut and exited the bathroom. I was fluffing my hair as passed by Nico and Luke, who were talking in the kitchen. Seeing Luke made my heart skip a beat. Seeing Luke wearing formal wear and his hair styled made my heart do somersaults.
"Hi." I breathed.
He smiled charmingly at me. "Hi."
I went over, placing my hand on his chest to steady myself, and tiptoed to give him a peck on the cheek.
"Oh gods." Nico whispered.
I whipped my head towards him and scoped the kitchen. "What?" I asked suddenly alert.
With all the crazy things that has happened today, I wouldn't be surprised if by some freak accident my robe caught on fire or something.
"Are you guys..." Nico trailed off and I saw his eyes glance down to my engagement ring.
I bit down my smile and nodded.
Excitement painted Nico's face. "Congratulations!"
He gave me a tight hug. He shook Luke's hand and gave him a one-armed hug. Luke proceeded to put his arm around my waist and brought me closer to him. I felt as if he was showing me off and I'm not going to complain. I put a hand on his shoulder and my other hand on his chest. The exchange caught Travis's attention, making him come over to the kitchen.
"What's going on?" He asked.
"Annabeth and Luke are engaged." Nico explained.
"Knowing Annabeth, how come I don't see a ring on Luke?" Travis raised an eyebrow at me.
I scrunched my nose as I stuck my tongue out at him.
Travis laughed. "Congratulations, you two!" Travis shook Luke's hand and then hugged me.
I gave Luke a quick kiss before I excused myself to check on Percy and get ready. I went upstairs and saw him having trouble with the cuffs of his dress shirt.
Looks like he's made up his mind.
I walked over to him and helped him get ready. He gave me a timid smile and surrendered his cuffs to me.
"Aren't you going to use your trident cuff links?" I asked him as I put the cuff links that came with the tuxedo.
He threw his head back, exasperated, and looked at the ceiling for a moment. "Oh gods, I forgot about those!"
Percy's trident cuff links were given to him by his father, Poseidon. He always wore those cuff links to special occasions such as our high school graduation, our respective university graduations, Paul and Sally's wedding, his completion of medicine school, and when we got our corresponding licenses. Having Percy forget about those cuff links for his own wedding was rather telling.
He looked down at his current cuff links and sighed. "I guess these will do."
I moved away from him and retrieved a box from my closet. I handed it to him and saw his eyes widen in disbelief.
"I got them polished last week."
"This is why you're the best best woman!" He beamed at me and sighed in relief. "You've done it again."
I chuckled and fixed his cuffs again. He proceeded to style his hair and I commented that I always like his hair pushed back. He obliged wholeheartedly. I helped him shrug on his tuxedo and when he faced me, I made sure his necktie and vest were snug and proper. Once he was done, we just stared at each other. No words were said. The faint chatter from the people downstairs was the only thing that kept it from being completely silent.
"So," I started, "you're getting married."
"So are you." He replied in a soft tone and smiled faintly.
I looked down at my ring and instinctively ran my thumb over the back of it. "Yeah. I'm not trying to steal your thunder, I swear." I joked.
"The ring looks very beautiful." His smile was wider. "Congratulations."
"Thank you. Congratulations as well."
He opened his arms to offer a hug. I stepped closer to him and tiptoed. I placed my hands on his arms as those snaked around me. One arm was around my waist while his other arm reached up to place his hand at the back of my neck. I closed my eyes and sighed. His soft lips lightly pressed against my cheek. I felt so much comfort and warmth when I'm in his arms.
Eventually, we let go of each other. I let my hands slide down his arms until he held my hands. He gave my hands a light squeeze. When he let go, something caught my eye.
"Wait." I held his hand and removed the friendship ring he wore. "Wouldn't want to remove this at the altar before Rachel puts your wedding ring." I placed his friendship ring in the pocket of his tuxedo and smiled.
"There he is!" The groomsmen started cheering as we went downstairs.
I saw Percy smile and welcome the cheers and encouragement from everyone. The photographer started to take pictures and instructed people how to pose and arrange themselves. When the photographer asked me to join in, I had to decline because I wasn't ready and dressed properly.
A few minutes later, Silena arrived along with a huge bag filled with makeup that I would have no idea how to use. She was already ready for the wedding. She looked bewitching as expected.
"If you'll all excuse us, I have to help this best woman get ready." Silena said and had me follow her upstairs.
"You guys can go ahead to the venue. I'll just catch up." I told Percy.
"Are you sure? We can wait for you."
"It's okay." I handed him his car keys. "We'll just take the group picture after the ceremony or something. You wouldn't want to worry Rachel."
The look on Percy's face showed that he didn't want to leave me behind.
"Annabeth!" Silena called.
"Coming!" I called back and smiled at Percy reassuringly. "It's okay."
Silena worked on me as soon as I sat down. She did my hair first, gathering my hair and sweeping it into a chic French twist updo. The look on my face made her raise an eyebrow.
"What?" She put her hand on her hip.
"It's just...Percy likes my hair down." I said almost to myself.
She gave me a deadpanned look, not amused.
"But I'm sure you know what's the best look for the dress you designed." I grinned toothily.
"Gods yeah I know what's the best look for you today." She squint her eyes at me and sprayed my hair with hairspray. "I see you're wearing the robe I gave you."
I laughed. "The robe that you said will go well with the loft's stairs."
"Well, I'm not wrong. You would look good going down the stairs with that robe." She chuckled. "You'd look like those women in old movies."
She gave me a smokey makeup, making sure to make my grey eyes pop. Finishing the look with a dark burgundy colored matte lipstick, she stepped back and admired her work.
"I knew I'd end up preparing you for this wedding." She smiled.
"Thank you so much for helping me."
"Go, go. Get dressed." She urged me.
While I got dressed, she just sat down where I was sitting, checking and retouching her own makeup. I slipped on the dress, minding the delicate straps as I put my arms through. I gingerly zipped myself up which was easy since the zipper only reached the small of my back, leaving my upper back bare. I immediately felt the dress hug my body as if it were a second skin. I ran my hands over the slinky embroidered overlay as I tried to straighten out the dress. I studied myself in front of the mirror. The dress really did flatter my figure in all angles. Silena knows what she's doing.
"Wow."
I looked at the mirror only to see Luke standing by the stairs. I turned around and smiled at him. He walked towards me without taking his eyes off of me. He placed his arms on my waist and I felt his fingers interlock, thanks to my backless dress.
"You look stunning." He said.
"You're welcome." Silena butted in.
Luke chuckled and tore his eyes from me for a moment to look at her. "Thank you but you know she has always been beautiful."
Silena smiled and cocked her head to the side. "You're right."
He looked back to me and repeated. "You are stunning."
"And you are dashing." I placed my hands on his chest.
"Not to be that person but you went up here because?" Silena asked.
"Ah, yes." He patted his suit and then revealed another small velvet box. "I wanted to give you this."
"I don't think I would be needing the ring box."
"Open it, dummy." He had a playful look on his face.
I looked at him with seething eyes but opened it anyway. Inside the box was a pair of white pearl and diamond stud earrings. The round and pear-shaped diamonds encircled the pearl. With the addition of the slanted pear-shaped diamonds, it looked like feathers. It looked exquisite.
"You're spoiling me." I started.
"It's something Dad gave Mom a long time ago. She wanted to pass it down to you."
I looked at him in disbelief. "No."
"Yes. I flew in from Connecticut last night. I visited her to tell her my intention to marry you." He just smiled at me. "Something tells me she approves."
I felt the same excitement as last night and I was in my euphoric state once again. I threw my arms around him and hugged him.
"To marry you?"
I looked at Silena and raised my left hand to show her the ring. Her face lit up and threw herself at us, congratulating the both of us. That was promptly followed by her kicking Luke out, making him go back downstairs, and finishing up my preparation. Since she mentioned pairing the dress with a choker, I went ahead and chose a delicate diamond choker from my collection. The choker went well with the high neck bateau neckline. I got my gold clutch and filled it with essentials plus the lipstick I'm wearing, which Silena lent. I wore my strappy gold heels, spritz on the perfume that Luke gave me, and I was done.
I had lifted my dress a bit as I made my way down the stairs with the stylish train sweeping each step. I wouldn't want to fall flat on my face after going through all that trouble. Luke was patiently waiting for us at the bottom of the stairs, holding his hands out for us like a gentleman that he is.
"Is everybody ready to go?" I asked.
"Onion has been fed and he has enough water for tonight." Luke announced.
Since Percy's car was a two-seater, the entourage had to take Nico's car which left the three of us to take a cab to the wedding. I must agree though that arriving to the wedding in a taxi isn't the most glamorous entrance.
Once we arrived, I could already hear the wedding planners looking for me. Silena and Luke dropped me off at the area where the entourage line up and went to get seated. The live band was already playing a soft song. Is that A Thousand Years?
When the wedding planners saw me, they had very annoyed looks on their faces and shoved my bouquet in my hands. They told me that the march has already started and I was next. Thank the gods I had the idea to give Nico the rings before they left because I didn't want to give Rachel a reason to hate me or rather another reason to hate me. Whatever.
I closed my eyes and took a deep breath before getting on the edge of the aisle. I opened my eyes and saw the church beautifully decorated. White flowers were everywhere: bouquets on every pew and petals on the aisle. There was a long white carpet on the aisle, which covered the beautiful marble floor. I would've left that out. Since it was still bright outside, the stained glass looked magnificent. The church was filled with people wearing white. The aisle divided the guests to Percy's and Rachel's guests. I looked at the other end of the aisle and saw a kneeling bench near the altar. Percy and his entourage were already standing on the right side of the altar with Rachel's entourage on the opposite side.
Rachel's maid of honor, Delphi, was walking in front of me. She was already more than halfway down the aisle instead of just a couple steps ahead of me because I was late. A wedding assistant fixed my dress's train behind me and smiled encouragingly before going back to where he was standing before. They probably noticed my hesitation. I gripped my bouquet tighter in my hands, took a deep breath, and walked down the aisle as soon as Delphi took her place up on the altar.
The soft music continued. There were familiar faces in the crowd: Sally and Paul, Rachel's parents, Poseidon, Percy's colleagues from the hospital, Rachel's artist friends, Mom and Dad, Katie, high school classmates and teachers, Thalia's grumpy face. Wait. I didn't know Dad was invited. When did he fly in from San Francisco?
The last face I looked at was Percy's. He looked very handsome. As I got closer and closer to the aisle, the more I noticed that he was tearing up. Maybe a tad bit too early. The guests' backs were to the altar since they were anticipating Rachel's walk. That was good because majority of them didn't notice Percy crying at the sight of me walking down the aisle. Tears were starting to well up in the rims of my eyes.
So this is what it feels like to get married?
Percy stepped down the altar to help me on my way up. "You are perfect." He said to me.
I smiled at him and tenderly wiped away his tears with my thumb while he held my wrist. "So are you."
I took my place and stood behind Percy as his best woman. He went back to his place and I saw his shoulders move as he took a deep breath.
Everybody was waiting for Rachel.
The front door of the church opened and Rachel stood there. The moment she started walking down the aisle, the vocalist of the live band softly sang the chorus of the song. Rachel wore a big princess bridal gown. The jeweled white bodice was strapless with a sweetheart neckline. The skirt of the dress was composed of tulle of different lengths and colors. Rachel must have painted it herself. Every step she took, a different color would emerge. The train of her gown was long but her veil was longer. She held a very colorful bouquet, which was a stark contrast to everybody else's white bouquet.
I couldn't see Percy's reaction because he stood in front of me. I felt Nico's hand on my shoulder as if to comfort me. Percy fetched her from the foot of the stairs and helped her up to the altar. They were whispering to each other and chuckling. The music stopped and the whole church was quiet.
"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here to celebrate the union of Perseus Jackson and Rachel Elizabeth Dare." The marriage officiant started.
To be honest, the whole ceremony was a blur to me. Next thing I know the ring bearer stepped up to the couple then they were exchanging vows and putting on the rings. Everything seemed to slow down when they finally kissed. People were cheering and clapping. Flashes from the cameras went off. Percy even dipped Rachel, causing everyone to cheer louder.
Percy looked very happy.
The photographer took pictures of the couple along with the entourage at the altar. The couple walked down the aisle hand in hand afterwards and Percy raised his fist as if to show victory which elicited laughter from the guests. The entourage stayed behind to sign the documents as witnesses to the ceremony. As the best woman, I had to stay a bit longer to talk to the officiant and check if everything is paid for.
We followed everyone out of the church once everything was done. While the wedding planners instructed the guests to go ahead to the reception venue, the photographer told the entourage to stay behind for pictures with the church's beautiful facade. The photographer spent a bit more time with Percy and his entourage to make up for my absence before the wedding. When the photographers were contented with the pictures they got, everyone headed to the reception.
The reception venue was huge and to no surprise, everything was white. There was a bar outside and waiters were serving finger food for the guests. Luke got us some drinks and I started socializing with the guests. I quickly located my father, who was with my mother. That was convenient.
"How come you never mentioned that you were flying to New York for the wedding?" I asked him as I hugged him tightly. "I didn't even know you were invited."
"Percy said it would be a surprise for you." He hugged me back and acknowledged Luke. "Luke."
"Mr. Chase." They shook hands and Luke proceeded to shake my mother's hand. "Athena."
"Did you know about this, Mom?" I asked.
"No." She laughed. "I was surprised when I got seated a while ago. I was about to have a word with Percy when I saw I was seated beside "Dad". You know how much Poseidon and I hate each other. But lo and behold, it was my ex-husband."
While we conversed, Luke placed his hand on the small of my back. His hand was warm and he started to subtly stroke my bare back with his thumb. It caused chills to run up my spine.
I asked my father about his flight, stay, and accommodation for the wedding. He said he was just staying for the weekend because he had to go back to his summer classes. This got me to ask about his work and my stepmother, Matt, and Bobby. Of course I would be catching up with my father, my mother and I see each other every weekday at the office.
"I had to rent this suit for this wedding." My father shared.
"Well, a white suit isn't really something you'd have hidden in your closet." Mom agreed with him.
"An all-white wedding has its perks. I got an idea of how Annabeth would look like if she got married." Dad smiled at me.
I was moved by my father's sentiments and at the same time I wanted to show them my engagement ring.
"Have you asked her already?" Mom asked.
I was taken aback and looked up at Luke. He had a smug look on his face.
"The first chance I got." He smiled down at me. The pride on his face made me feel warm all over.
"They know?" I scrunched up my eyebrows, making my parents laugh.
"I called them and informed them that I planned to ask you to marry me."
"Wow, you really kept me in the dark, huh?" I laughed as he wrapped his arm around my waist and placed a quick kiss on my lips.
"Congratulations to the both of you." Mom raised her glass and we all clinked our glasses with hers.
Luke and I excused ourselves and went around to talk to other guests. I caught up with my high school classmates and teachers, who I haven't seen or heard from in years. Aside from the guests that were present at the wedding ceremony, more guests arrived at the reception. They have invited so many people. Paul's and Sally's colleagues, Zeus and Hades, Rachel's aunts, uncles, and cousins. Those were just to name a few. Honestly, I could feel myself recharging my social batteries once I get home.
"Excuse me." A member of the photography team called my attention. "Can we pull you aside for pictures with the bride and groom?"
I left Luke and followed the person. Aside from me, they also brought in Delphi, the maid of honor. We had group pictures with Rachel and Percy then they divided us. Percy and I were being photographed and we couldn't stop laughing and joking around. We did the iconic prom picture pose where he stands behind me, wraps his arms around my hips, and I just put my hands over his. That was just one of the poses we did.
A couple minutes later, they pulled aside the immediate families for group photos with the couple. When I asked permission to head back inside, Sally insisted I stay and join them in the family photos. The photographers took as much photos as they can. Once they were satisfied with the group photos, we headed back inside, leaving the couple behind.
"I always thought it would be you and Percy who'd end up together." Somebody said behind me.
I turned around and saw Poseidon with a playful look on his face. He adhered to the theme of the wedding but you can't separate that man away from Hawaiian shirt prints. His dress shirt had light outlines of coconut trees and parrots. Percy was the spitting image of Poseidon with the same jet black hair and the sea green eyes. Despite the rivalry between my mother and Percy's father, I did enjoy having Poseidon around.
"You should've knocked some sense into him when you still had the chance." I rode along with his joke.
He laughed and put his arm over my shoulders. "I'd love to have you as my daughter-in-law. How about Triton? He's single, I think, but legally for sure." He ran his hands over his neatly trimmed beard.
"I have to break it to you, I'm to be married." I said and showed him my engagement ring.
"And it's blue. Are you sure Percy isn't the one who gave that to you?" He asked after he looked at the ring. "Congratulations, Annabeth! Who's the lucky guy?"
"Luke Castellan." I said with pride.
"Hmm, Castellan. That name is familiar. Is he related to Hermes?"
"His father's name is Hermes."
"Zeus might know more about him. Do you have a date already?"
"We actually just got engaged. Just last night. Not that I'm stealing anyone's thunder."
Poseidon guffawed. "Don't let Zeus hear you."
We walked back inside and the number of people was overwhelming. I looked at Poseidon who just surveyed the crowd for a moment. Seems like I'm not the only one.
"So best woman," Poseidon started, "leave it to Percy to make up something like that just for you."
I chuckled then smirked. "Could you blame him?"
Poseidon laughed again. "I'm putting Triton on the table once again."
"I'll have to go over that offer with my fiancé." I cocked my head and laughed.
We went over to the bar. A server offered some finger food to us and when Poseidon saw it was shrimp cocktail, he politely declined and scrunched his nose when the server left us. Just like his son, Poseidon had an aversion to seafood. He scoped room while waiting for our drinks.
"It looks like a bad day to get stage fright." He sipped his drink. "Do you have a speech ready?"
I just stared at him, unmoving.
"I bet you do. You probably wrote it down the moment he told you he was planning to propose to Rachel. You know, I don't really know much about Rachel. Percy doesn't share a lot of things about her with me. It's always you." He faced me. "Can I copy some bits from you? I promise I'd paraphrase it."
"I still don't have a speech." I said mostly to myself. The fact that Percy just got married a couple hours ago still hasn't sunk in.
"Do you need a moment alone? Do you have your laptop with you? Did you bring a printer with you too?" Poseidon teased. "For sure I know you have an outline."
I looked at him and I could feel the panic creeping in.
"Oh." He must've realized that I was serious because the joking look disappeared from his face. "Just make something up on the spot. I bet you do that when you're in court."
I glared at him with raging eyes but let out a deep breath, ready to resign and accept defeat.
"You'll think of something to say. It doesn't have to be long and sentimental. I mean, don't make us look bad. No Pulitzer Prize material." He smiled encouragingly at me before leaving me to come up with some half-baked speech.
I stayed at the bar, still dumbfounded and speechless. Literally speechless. I wish I could just skip my part and tell Percy and Rachel I'd email them my speech once I've written it. Gods, what a let-down I'd be if I'd do that. I was gazing into space, simmering in frustration. Why haven't I written a speech beforehand? Maybe not writing a speech was my way of not accepting the fact that Percy is finally married. If I didn't make a speech then it wouldn't be true. Why am I the best woman? Why am I horrible at this? Why am I a bad friend? Why am I an awful person?
Everything seemed to become hazy. People's chatter became white noise. In the sea of people, I immediately zeroed in on one person's face. When I saw Luke eyeing me with a concerned look on his face, I started to calm down. He couldn't come to me at the moment because he was talking to Chris Rodriguez. I gave him a weak smile to which he responded with a wink. I took a deep breath. I could do this. Everything will be okay.
Alright. Think, Annabeth.
Percy and Rachel. Rachel and Percy. Need I say more? Best wishes to the both of you. Then skedaddle.
"For a moment back in the ceremony, I thought it was you who was getting married." Thalia said as she made her way to me.
"Yeah, I was really feeling it too, you know." I joked.
"But, of course, you wouldn't have a cheesy song to walk down the aisle to. You wouldn't have a big wedding in the first place." She smiled at me. "You look gorgeous."
I mimicked her smile. "So do you. Just, you know, be less grouchy."
"I'm trying." She whined.
"Try harder." I squinted my eyes. "By the way, I love your pantsuit."
The emcee announced that we may enter the dining area. People slowly made their way in and got seated. Numerous large round tables were placed around the dance floor and there was a stage in front. The live band was already there and playing soft music. White flowers everywhere, no surprise. The place looked elegant.
The bride's and groom's entourages along with their plus ones were seated in two tables, which gave Thalia a reason to scowl. Percy's and Rachel's families had their own tables. Thalia, Silena, and Beckendorf ended up sitting with high school classmates and you can just see Thalia's indifference from a mile away.
"So are you and Travis in a serious relationship now?" I asked Katie as she sat down with us.
Her cheeks had a hue of red as she looked up at Travis who pushed back her chair for her. "I guess so."
"Ready to settle down?" Nico raised an eyebrow at Travis.
Travis just laughed and placed his arm over Katie's shoulders.
I gave Travis a warning look. When Katie wasn't looking, he raised his eyebrows up and down and a shy smile spread across his face. Filled with happiness for the both of them, I gave him an inconspicuous nod.
Once everyone was seated, the emcee introduced Rachel and Percy. Guests stood up and clapped as the couple entered. Rachel still wore her giant wedding dress and if I were her, I'd do the same. With the price of a dress like that, I would be wearing it for as long as I could.
They went straight to the dance floor. Rachel stood on one end and Percy on the opposite. When the band played, they started dancing. I didn't know that their first dance would be choreographed. Nico, who was seated beside me, was snickering and laughing at his cousin. I understood why. The look of concentration was very evident on Percy's face as you can see him mouthing the counting of the dance. I looked at Nico to urge him to stop laughing, which was difficult when you're stifling one as well. Maybe the overtime at the hospital didn't give him time to practice the dance.
"I never knew you were the someone waiting for me. 'Cause we were just kids when we fell in love. Not knowing what it was."
When the singer sang this line, Percy looked at me. He couldn't have been just looking or glancing generally in my direction. He made eye contact with me and held my gaze, which was broken by the next step of the dance. Perhaps he was trying to engage with the audience. There was a pang in my heart quickly followed by guilt. I shouldn't feel this way. Not anymore. Not especially when I'm seated next to my fiancé.
They ended their dance with a kiss. People clapped and the couple went straight to their table, a small table just for the two of them. The emcee announced that dinner will be served shortly. Servers emerged and distributed appetizers, main courses, and desserts throughout the reception dinner. With the number of taste test appointments Rachel and Percy went to, all the served food were scrumptious.
The level of panic rose as each part of the program ended. Luke had a hand on my leg underneath the table. It helped me relax. Every once in a while, he'd look over to me to check if I was alright. I did appreciate that. I needed that.
"I hope everyone still has room for dessert! May I call the couple in front for the cutting of the cake?" The emcee said.
Percy escorted Rachel to the front and stood beside the beautiful four tier cake. It had a hand painted design with intricate strokes of different colors. I wouldn't be surprised if Rachel was the one who painted that as well. Rachel held the knife and Percy's hand was over hers. They cut the cake and fed each other a piece.
The emcee invited everyone to the bar, which moved inside, for cocktail hour which would be followed by speeches from the guests. Guests started standing up to get drinks from the bar. Some lined up in front to get a slice of cake. The couple walked around, mingling with the guests and taking pictures with them. Other guests got on the dance floor while the live band played music.
Luke turned to me and gently squeezed my leg. "Hey, are you okay?"
"I don't have a speech yet." I confessed.
"I bet you can ad lib up there." The expression on my face quickly made him offer. "Do you want me to help?"
I bit my lip and nodded.
"Alright. Just stay here and start with something. I'll get us some drinks, which might help with the thought process."
"Thank you." I gave him a peck.
With the number of guests they had, the couple didn't have the chance to come over to Luke and me. Maybe they'd do another round after the speeches. I felt my fingers and toes grow cold and clammy when the hour was nearly over. Poseidon was right. This was a bad day to get stage fright.
Once everyone was back on their seats, the speeches began. It started with the parents. Maybe I can pick something up from their speeches. Of course, the parents acknowledged the in-laws and welcomed the new family member. Almost all of them gave advice on married life. Well, there's nothing in their speeches that I could use.
I was the last one to give a speech. When Delphi was done, she went over to the couple to personally congratulate them.
Finally, it was my turn. Luke walked me to the front with his hand on the small of my back. He squeezed my hand before he sat back down. I scoped the room and everybody was looking at me, waiting for me to say something.
I looked at Percy and he gave me an encouraging close lipped smile. I clenched my hand around the microphone and drew in an uneven breath.
"Most of you were probably surprised when you saw me walk down the aisle a while ago. I don't blame you though.
"Good evening everyone, my name is Annabeth and I'm the best woman. It took - how old am I? - 27 years for Percy to finally share with everyone that I'm the best. Although I think I was picked by default since the groom doesn't really have any other friends.
"When Percy asked me to be the best woman, I thought, 'Haven't we established this a long time ago?'. I'm not going to lie but when he asked me, I choked on my drink and asked him to repeat it just to make sure I heard him correctly the first time. Best woman. Best woman. Just like what Poseidon told me earlier, 'Leave it to Percy to make up something like that just for you'."
Somewhere in the room, I heard Poseidon cheer at the mention of his name.
"I'll be honest, when I tried to write this speech, I searched the internet 'the perfect best woman speech' but of course, I got nothing. I thought the last time I'd be cramming something would be in college. I think I spent too much time planning Percy's bachelor party. I promise, Rachel, nothing too wild happened.
"Another factor that rendered me completely clueless on what to write is that Percy is the first one in our group of friends that got married. So I tried watching movies that were wedding themed. If I burst out singing ABBA or loan you a song specifically The Way You Look Tonight, you know why.
"Eventually, I searched the internet for examples of best man speeches. Most of them were apologies to the bride for having to stick with the groom for the rest of her life. Honestly though, I can't think of a single thing to apologize for. Percy is an amazing person. There's no other way to put it. So Sally, Poseidon, and Paul, thank you for raising him the way he is. Percy is a wonderful, handsome, charismatic man. He'd do anything for anyone. He even wrote this speech for me! I'm kidding, I didn't stay up late writing this speech just to give all the credit to Percy. It's a good thing I haven't sworn on the Bible to say the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth or else this speech would've been really short, huh?
"I knew what being in love looked like. Being the first one in our group of friends to be in a relationship and to get married, it's when I see the both of you. Both of you are lucky to have each other in your lives and to love each other immensely. I've known the couple back in high school but I have known Percy way before that. We've been best friends for 24 years now. Through thick and thin. Always have each other's backs. One of the best things that ever happened to me. I wouldn't be the person I am today without you. That gives me the confidence when I say that I know Percy very well. Top to bottom. Inside out. Sometimes better than he knows himself.
"Rachel, take good care of Percy because - " I paused to take a deep breath because I could feel my eyes swell and my voice quaver, which would crack if I continued - "I know he'll take good care of you." I smiled sadly at Percy.
We locked eyes. He took a deep breath through his nose and reciprocated my smile.
I cleared my throat and raised a champagne glass that was set on a table in front for the sole purpose of making a toast after each speech. "May your love inspire others to love as much as you both do. Congratulations and cheers to the newlyweds."
Clinks were heard all over the dining area.
I went to their table to intimately give them my regards. Percy got up and met me halfway, embracing me. My cold and clammy feeling in my fingers and toes went away and warmth embraced me. There were some awws from the crowd. I clutched him tighter, burying my face in his chest and trying to hide the fact that I was weeping. Thank the gods Silena insisted on using waterproof mascara on me.
Percy was about to walk me back to my table but Luke was already by my side. I linked my arm with his, slightly leaning against him as we made our way back to the table. Nico placed his arm over my shoulders and soothingly rubbed my arm.
"That was a good speech but I would've started it the way I told you." Nico joked.
"I told you to give me a copy of your speech."
"Well, you should've written it down when I was reciting it." He rolled his eyes at me.
I laughed. Thank the gods for my amazing support system.
"Are you sure you wrote that speech just last night?" Katie asked.
"That's a lie." I smiled.
"Yeah, we all know you were busy with something else last night." Connor wiggled his eyebrows at me.
I placed my hand over Luke's and gave him a wink.
"She actually wrote it an hour before she delivered it." Luke beamed.
"I wasn't part of the toastmasters club back in high school for nothing." I boasted.
"Yeah, I don't think that's something worth being bragged about." Travis made fun of me.
I faced Katie. "Is this who you want to be with?"
The feedback from the microphone caused everyone to look at the stage. The couple stood in front. Rachel's gown's train was so long that it draped over the stage.
"Hi! Good evening, everyone!" Percy held the mic in one hand.
There was a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. Percy held Rachel by the waist exactly the way he used to do with me. It means "I've got you" and when he did it to me, it made me feel safe. I realized he will never do that to me again. It finally sunk in that they're married.
"On behalf of my beautiful wife and I, thank you so much for attending and joining us in this wonderful occasion. I'd be lying if I said I'm not excited to already open the wedding gifts."
Rachel looked up at Percy and playfully hit his shoulder.
Percy continued. "Thank you for the lovely speeches. It has touched our hearts so dearly. Thank you to our in-laws for the warm welcome to the family. Please enjoy the rest of the night." The couple looked adoringly at each other before sharing a kiss.
The band played light music once again. The couple started making rounds and conversing with the guests. When I saw some guests go back to the dance floor, Luke and I glanced at each other. Reading each other's minds, Luke stood up and offered a hand, which I eagerly took.
Luke led me to the dance floor then proceeded to extend his arm and make me walk an arc around him before pulling me in. He held me close as we swayed side to side to the slow song. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. I was finally having a good time compared to before the speech when I was always on the edge of my seat.
"With that dress, you look very alluring." He said.
"Thank you but, honestly, you should be thanking Silena for everything."
"So, what's the plan after this?"
I placed my chin on my hand that was resting on his shoulder. I bit my lower lip and started to whisper in his ear. I felt his hold on my waist and hand tighten as his breathing hitched.
He guided me to twirl and pulled me back. He placed my hand over his shoulder. I laced my fingers together behind his neck. I felt both his hands on my back, moving towards my waist. His nails lightly scratched my skin as he brought me closer to him. Shivers ran up and down my spine. My eyes rolled back and my eyelids fluttered close.
"What else?" He asked in a low and husky voice.
I continued to whisper and when I pulled back to look at his face, my mischievous smile became a surprised expression. Instead of a sultry look on his face, a soft and loving look greeted me.
"How about we get married tonight?" Luke offered.
"What?" I asked in shock.
"I mean, I know you don't want a big wedding. We already have the people you want in the wedding here: your family and your friends. Okay, maybe minus Percy cause he's probably off to their honeymoon after the reception."
I'm not going to lie but not having Percy around made me feel glum. As if the ceremony would be incomplete.
"What about your side of the family? And your friends?" I asked him.
"My family isn't really reliable when it comes to this. Ethan is also in New York since we flew in together. With the number of guests in this wedding, I wouldn't be surprised if I saw Ethan here."
I didn't say anything which made him continue talking.
"You're already dressed up. If you want to be a bit traditional, you already have something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. For something borrowed, we can just borrow Rachel's veil or bouquet. Aside from that, you're wearing my mother's earrings, a new dress, and your engagement ring is blue." He continued to make his case.
"You've already thought this through, haven't you?" I raised an eyebrow at him.
"That's why I chose that engagement ring." He smiled proudly at me.
"What about the paperwork? In the state of New York, we can get our marriage license 24 hours after applying. Besides the Marriage Bureau is closed and it's a weekend."
"We're only after the ceremony, the celebration of our marriage: say our vows, get wishes from our guests. We can have drinks and dessert at the loft. As for the paperwork, we can take care of that afterwards. Get married at the city hall as soon as we get our license." He reasoned out. "But if you really want to get married legally, we can hop on the first flight to Las Vegas after the celebration. I heard the Marriage License Bureau is open up until twelve midnight."
"You did your research." I noted.
"Well, I got to keep the options lined up." He chuckled. "So what do you say?" He brought me closer to him.
"Excuse me. Mind if I cut in?" Somebody asked.
I tore my eyes away from Luke and saw Percy with a small smile on his face.
"Not at all, Jackson." Luke said and twirled me over to Percy. "But I'm going to want her back later."
I rolled my eyes but willingly melted in Percy's arms as we swayed around the dance floor. The live band started a new song, which caused my ears to perk up because it was a weird song to play at a wedding reception. Maybe this song managed to wiggle from Nico and Thalia's song list on to the official song list passed to the band. To be fair, I think it has a nice beat to slow dance to and the band decided to make a slower rendition of the song.
Percy held me the same way he did earlier today. One hand was on the small of my back and the other was on the back of my neck, tenderly holding me close. My hands were on his arm and his shoulder. I gently placed my head against his. We were in our own little bubble.
"Congratulations, Seaweed Brain." I said softly.
"Thank you, Wise Girl." There was a smile in his voice.
"Made the right decision?" I chaffed.
"I think so." He chuckled.
"That's good to hear." I smiled and closed my eyes, savoring the moment.
"Look, don't get me wrong, I know there is no tomorrow. All I ask is if this is my last night with you, hold me like I'm more than just a friend. Give me a memory I can use. Take me by the hand while we do what lovers do. It matters how this ends cause what if I never love again?" The singer sang.
A/N: Thanks for reading! :)
I hope this update will help you get through the COVID19 quarantine. Please stay at home. Wash your hands and avoid touching MEN (Mouth, Eyes, Nose). Let's flatten the curve together.
Tell me what you think of the chapter. Write a review. It makes me smile throughout the day. So make me smile and write a review :D
Question of the Chapter: Have you ever helped your friend make an important life decision? Or have you ever talked them out of it?