The Tiger Inside
By Nasu Hasami
"Put me in a wheelchair…before I go insane."
~Ramones~
76. Banal
This whole wedding business is a nightmare, Mulan's decided. At least once a day she reminds Shang they should have eloped while they were in the Caribbean or gone via City Hall once they were home. And while Shang seems to be handling his side of things, Mulan really hasn't got a clue.
She only buys a dress after her mother drags her to every bridal boutique in LA and reassures her that 'baba left money for your wedding'.
The irony that it's a Vera Wang gown is not lost on Mulan.
The shoes are marginally easier because, since attending the hospital gala with Shang, Mulan has developed a taste for Jimmy Choos. Something her fiancé has been more than happy to indulge her in.
The jewellery is easy because Mulan's father had commissioned wedding jewellery when he was given his prognosis, but it's hard when her mother arrives with the box. It's hard for Mulan to see the notes and designs and hold the commissioned pieces in her hands. The intricate gold filigree dragon and phoenix bangles are breathtaking and the jade lotus hair adornment is nothing short of spectacular. The necklace is a delicate string of small gold and diamond blossoms and the earrings are subtle diamond buds.
As for wedding banquet menus, they are an entire mystery to Mulan. All the dishes mean things, and she just wants to eat delicious food. She also feels guilty that if she defaults to Shang on one more decision, she really hasn't contributed to their wedding in any practical way.