Are you sure you told him to come here, instead of straight to the church? Adele Rollins queried, her words high pitched, a weak attempt at not letting the panic escape her voice. She grabbed a tissue from an opened box on the walnut side table and blotted the beads of perspiration that were beginning to form on her forehead.

Yes I did, her mother insisted, annoyed at Adele's insinuation that she relayed the wrong message.

Adele let out a long suppressed sigh. They still hadn't heard anything from Enid's father. He had called two days ago pledging his commitment to give his daughter away, but, as it usually was with her ex husband, she was wary of his promises. She glanced over at her mother, seated in an armchair, her mouth in a grim line and looking utterly displeased with the entire situation.

At that moment, Enid entered the room, her hair still wet from the shower, and wrapped turban style.

Is she here yet? she called out, and looked at the clock hanging on the wall for what seemed to be the hundredth time that afternoon. One forty nine, exactly two agonizing minutes since she last checked.

Does she have a car phone,? Adele suggested. Maybe we can call her. What's her name again?

It's Myra. And I don't have the number. Enid replied, looking out the window, praying for a car to pull up to the driveway. She had said that she was on her way, but that was over three hours ago! I wish she would get here.

Adele, why don't you turn on the air conditioner,? her grandmother suggested, as she fanned herself with a leaflet of biblical scripture that she pulled from her purse.

I already told you mother, it's December, Adele replied, trying to swallow her frustration. I didn't think I needed to have it on for the season. I didn't think it would be so hot today. She sighed, her patience wearing thin. She raised her chin towards the staircase and the upper floor of her small home. Richard, she added, referring to her fiancee, is up there in the attic doing the best he can to turn it back on.

It's like a sauna in here, the old lady whined. Tell him to hurry. I don't want to put on my dress in this heat.

Adele gave her mother a scathing glance. Her tone dripped with irritation as she raised her voice, her hands on her hips. You might try to be nicer to him, considering all he's done for us. The entire room filled with undeniable tension. The only one who was unaffected was little Alex, who was running around happily while she practised her role. There was little on her mind except the excitement of getting to wear her new dress and the thought of opening all the boxes that were piling under the tree at home.

Enid walked over to the large fan that sat on the dining table and turned the speed on to the third level, but all that seemed to do was blow more hot air throughout the room. Enid sent her grandmother a dirty look. This was all her fault! The old lady groaned, appearing wounded at Adele's sharp tone. It had been her idea for Enid to get ready at her mother's home.

Her grandmother had insisted that this is how it was done in her day, and she wanted her to pretend, to go from childhood home to the church, choosing to ignore that Enid had moved out a long time ago, that she already had one child, and had been living with her fiancee for well over a year. She moved her seat to the front of the fan and removed the wrapped towel from her head, biting her lip nervously. Her hair was acting strangely in this heat. Within fifteen minutes, parts of it were dry, and to her horror, the curls tighter and springier than usual.

I wish she would get here. I just can't seem to get my hair to behave.

What did you put in it dear,? her grandmother asked, eyeing her head with disapproval. It seems to be growing upwards instead of down.

I used a new protein treatment last night she said peering into the small mirror in the corner curio. She got up from her seat, her weight of her belly requiring extra effort to get to her feet. Maybe I didn't use enough conditioner. I'll go back and rinse again. It should come out this time.

They watched as she trod up the stairs, as a much welcomed sound of the vents from the ceiling came alive.

After half an hour, cooler air started flowing throughout the room. But the bride's face was not one of relief.

It doesn't look like she's coming, Enid said, her lip trembling as she reentered the living room.

Hello,? a voice rang out, and Elizabeth, her dress enclosed in a garment bag, walked into the room, after letting herself in through the door in the kitchen.

Enid took one look at Elizabeth with a fresh floral tiara entwined within sunny flaxen locks, a flow of perfect waves down her back and burst into tears. Even on a miserably hot day, Elizabeth's golden hair appeared to be waltzing with the angels while her own looked like it had been gyrating in Satan's infernal dance club!

This is terrible. I look worse than Mike Brady in season five, Enid wailed, the tears rolling down her face as her mother grabbed a comb from the table and tried to smooth out the tight damp spirals on her daughter's head.

Elizabeth raised her brow, and examined her friend's head. It had formed a stiff, bristle, a spaghetti like mop, and Adele's brushing was not helping.

What exactly did you put in it? And where is the hairdresser?

I used a new keratin treatment, I didn't know it would do this! It was supposed to tame the frizz, maybe I used too much? I don't know, Enid moaned.

A keratin treatment? Elizabeth asked.

I didn't know it would be like this. I've already washed and rinsed it four times and it won't come out. My wedding's ruined, she sobbed.

Adele looked helplessly at Enid's meltdown.

Let's turn the thermostat down a little, Elizabeth said, hoping the lower humidity would help with the frizz.

Elizabeth pulled Adele to the side as Enid grabbed the brush, running it roughly through the matted clumps.

We have to do something. Where is the stylist,? she hissed.

She was supposed to be here over an hour ago! Adele answered. I don't believe this is happening! First her father….

Elizabeth's eyes widened. What about her father?

Adele shook her head. We haven't seen or heard from him, she said, keeping her voice low. Forget the stylist. This is the real reason she's so upset. Richard has already offered to walk her down the aisle, you know, in case her dad doesn't make it. She frowned.

Liz, I'm so afraid for her. Of the disappointment she's going to feel when he once again abandons her and isn't there for her wedding. She put her hand to her forehead. And now the hairdresser is a no show. We're just going to have to go to the closest salon and hope they can fit us in. Let's leave now!

No! Elizabeth suggested suddenly. I have a better idea. Let me see if I can do something, she said, as she headed towards the kitchen. She dialed the Morrows' number, hoping to catch Skye before she headed to the church. Their head parlor maid answered the call and handed it to her already dressed mistress.

We have a potential catastrophe here, Elizabeth began explaining the situation. Within minutes, Skye had come up with a solution to the matter at hand. Elizabeth sighed in relief. Skye usually had ways of getting whatever she wanted.

Don't worry Elizabeth, I'll take care of it, Skye assured her. Twenty minutes later Skye arrived at Adele's home with her personal stylist in tow. Ferdinand introduced himself, his protective cape and bag of tools in hand and with a piteous look towards the frazzled bride.

He ran his hands through Enid's hair after sitting her down and wrapping the ties of the cape around her neck. Hmmmm, Mmmm-hmmm

Now what did you do?

She handed him the product bottle. It was supposed to define my curls, she explained with embarrassment and feeling very foolish.

Hmmmm, he said, examining the ingredients and directions on the container. Pregnancy hormones can affect the impact of hair products. But this is not for your hair type anyway, he continued, shaking his head. Looks like we have our work cut out for us. It's bad, he informed her bluntly, shaking his head. But I've seen worse.

He pulled out a couple of jars from his bag and began mixing the ingredients, the combination resulting in a melon colored pudding like concoction. This is just a temporary fix, he informed Enid, as the women in the room watched in fascination while he used a brush to apply the product throughout the length of her hair. It will take a few more washings to get out the protein buildup. But for today, this will work….

After another round with the blow dryer, Elizabeth sighed with relief as Ferdinand pinned and preened the hair into small sections, loosening the stubborn ringlets. Half an hour later, with little time to spare, Ferdinand transformed the noodle like mop into smooth, sleek waves. Elizabeth beamed, seeing the look of admiration on everyone's face. She couldn't supply Enid's father, but at least she didn't have to worry about her hair.

Enid's grandmother, sitting next to her, leaned over. It's that fuzzball texture, she shook her head, her old green eyes full of contempt. She definitely gets it from her father's side, she muttered, loud enough for Adele to hear.

She pointed her chin towards Ferdinand. And why is he wearing an earring? she whispered, a tight smirk on her face. And his pants…. they're so tight!

Adele dabbed her eyes, ignoring her mother's negativity. Although her mind was still on her ex husband, her eyes filled with pride as she met Enid's in the mirror. At least one crisis had been averted….


You can do this Elizabeth, just a few more steps. Just a few more steps Liz.….. Elizabeth silently encouraged herself as she walked down the white aisle runner, her satin heeled shoes silent as she willed her legs to move forward. She made her way past the filled benches, the silk of her pale mint colored frock fluttering gracefully around her ankles. She focused on the white and pink rose petals covering the monogrammed fabric laid on polished wooden planks, that were placed there moments ago by Enid's daughter Alex, who was now at the front near the alter, swinging her little lattice basket and looking quite pleased with herself for a job well done.

As she read the words, And the Two Shall Become One, printed on the shimmering white cloth, she was all too aware of the blood draining from her face. Behave Elizabeth,! she scolded herself. You are about to become one with this floor, if you keep this up. You'll ruin your best friend's wedding if you faint at it! After all she's been through today. First the stylist stood her up, and then her father showed up at the last minute looking like he spent the night at Kelly's. Now get yourself together!

Everyone's misgivings and naysaying had been tossed aside when the bride's father had appeared, and they chose to not dwell on his reddened haggard face, and the state of his rumpled tuxedo. It was all worth it… to see the happy expression on Enid's face and the sigh of relief from her mother and all the rest of her relatives.

Elizabeth ignored this latest episode of dizziness, and tried instead to focus on the spectators, all dressed in their wedding finery. Her eyes locked with Bruce Patman's cool gaze, and she glanced at the attractive redhead seated next to him. He raised his brow and smirked at her, his never ending cockiness and arrogance on full display. On Bruce's other side was Roger Patman, Lila next to him, her dark head cocked to the side, her usual bored expression replaced with sincerity and genuine interest.

Enid was never able to tolerate Bruce. How on earth did he get invited? And his mother too,? she thought, as she recognized Marie Patman, her cool blue eyes identical to her son's. There were so many other faces, all her old friends, some more familiar than others, people she grew up with, and used to be a big part of her life.

A few rows from the front sat Caroline Pearce, her eyes sharp as an eagle's as if on the prowl for anything amiss. She reached the front of the church and closer to the alter, her face lighting up as Nicholas, who was seated between their parents, winked at her from his seat. Elizabeth looked at the hard benches longing to collapse into one of them. There she would sleep, sleep forever. She trod on, forcing herself not to yawn.

She became more alarmed as what sounded like an out of tune radio breezed through her ears, a light sound, an indication that her hearing was fading. She focused on the vents up in the vaulted ceiling, silently begging them to send more air as she began to feel stifled. The temperature in the small church was lower than usual. So why was her head feeling so hot? She longed for something cool. Maybe some snow. She could bury the heat of her heavy head in it. But not the kind that she was seeing right now, the type that came on a television that had no antenna. The type that one saw, just as they were about to pass out.

What was she thinking, coming here in the middle of this miserable heatwave? Right when she thought she was about to drop, Enid entered the front door on the arm of her father, and everyone stood as she advanced down the aisle. All eyes were on the jubilant and very pregnant bride, while Elizabeth took the opportunity to get herself in order. Sheer willpower enabled her to straighten her spine and endure what felt to her like an hour long discourse on matrimony. The minister, with his white hair and stiff collar endlessly sermonized, and Elizabeth shot him a diabolical gaze, wishing that he would move it along.

Man and wife, say man and wife already,! she urged him silently. She looked longingly at Nicholas, trying her best to keep the strain off her face, to keep her composure, when all she wanted was to melt in his arms. We'll get out of here, we'll go home, we'll go to the beach, yes, a walk on the beach is what I need!

There were several small children in the church, and Elizabeth saw Cara with a tight grip on Nathan, who was squirming in her lap, eager to get away. A baby's cry periodically cut through the reading of the scriptures, and Elizabeth just knew that the bored child wanted a break from the dullness of the occasion and the minister's monotone.

The sweetest sounds of the day came to her ears when she heard Father Maurice announce "You may kiss the bride," followed by everyone in the pews clapping heartily.

Her fantasy of summoning Soames and having him drive her and Nicholas away from the church would never come to fruition. She had to do her duty and carry out her obligations, as she promised her best friend. She had to see this long day through. As soon as the initial congratulations were over, the entire congregation had made their way to the Valley Country Club, where Elizabeth had no choice but to mingle with old friends, answer their numerous questions, and spend some time creating a speech and toasting the newlyweds.

Under normal circumstances, she would have been too happy to be in the presence and familiarity of her old life. She made her rounds throughout the club's main ballroom, and they all wanted a piece of her, all wanted her attention, all wanted to know everything about her life back east, and most importantly, her role as the new Mrs Morrow.

She and Nicholas were the talk of the occasion, they left tongues wagging at their appearance on the dance floor, seemingly trapped in their own private world. She was the home town girl now back at home, and the absence of her sister, was the unspoken reality on everyone's mind. The days were gone, where Jessica would definitely have been invited by Enid, but only for Elizabeth's sake.

If they had listened to Caroline, they would have thought that she had outgrown them all, that they were now beneath her level of sophistication, that she had married into the wealthiest family in town and that it had gone to her head. They all agreed, she looked as beautiful as ever, with her shiny hair, and a dress that exposed the pale softness of her neck and shoulders.

Her skin had lost it's golden glow, but, she still managed to shimmer. There were neverending questions from Lila, from Winston, from Sandy, and even Heather Malone...

Had she changed? Of course she had, but it was clear that Caroline had been exaggerating….. Her smile was genuine, warm and friendly as it had always been, and she appeared blissfully happy, particularly in the company of her husband…..


Oh Amy, he's beautiful, Elizabeth said, as she ran her hands through the soft strands of blonde on little Ken's head. His fat little hands grasped her finger as his bright blue eyes stared up at her, while a pacifier dropped from his mouth. He's what? Three months now?

Yes and already seventeen pounds, Amy laughed.

We had to apologize to Enid for him interrupting the minister, she continued. But we had to bring him. The air conditioner in our apartment blew out and we didn't have the time to bring him to my parents.'

They chatted for a while and as Amy gave details about how she was adjusting to returning to her job at Fowler Memorial, Elizabeth felt a strange sense of de javu. This was the Amy she was most fond of. They had been best friends once, and she still remembered the old Amy... tall, thin and somewhat awkward, all before she discovered the allure of boys and the magic of revealing clothes and makeup.

After a few bites of wedding cake, Elizabeth's stomach turned sour at the richness of the mango buttercream mixed in with the few sips of champagne she had managed to swallow. She excused herself and made her way to the ladies' lounge. She splashed her face with cold water and sat in one of the lounge's luxurious stuffed chairs, her eyes roaming over the marble flooring, pale green chandeliers, huge gilt mirrors and soft pink wallpaper. She laid back against the soft cushions, enjoying the calmness and coolness of the room when she was rudely interrupted, by someone who had been eyeing and looking for an opportunity to pounce all afternoon.

Elizabeth Wakefield,! she shrieked. Oops, I mean Morrow. Caroline practically ran over to Elizabeth, enveloping her in a bear hug, her overly sweet perfume overwhelming Elizabeth's senses. What are you doing, hiding in here, ? she said, sitting down and grabbing Elizabeth's arm. If Nicholas was my husband, I would be out there, making sure no one steals him. Why Liz, you're almost as white as I am!

Am I,? Elizabeth replied, trying not to roll her eyes. So much for peace and quiet!

There's no confusing you and Jessica now. You know, I saw Jessica just a couple of days ago. It's too bad she's not here. Her invitation must have gotten lost in the mail, Caroline continued gleefully. That's probably why we're not seeing her today….. Right,? she pressed, her eyes full of naivety and innocence.

Elizabeth examined the smooth alabaster face, the pinched nose, strawberry blonde eyelashes, the ever present drive for scandal and decided not to feed the hunger.

It's nice to see you too Caroline, she said, with as much brightness as she could muster. And you look great!

So do you Liz, so do you… I had my freckles removed, see?

She gabbed on, not waiting for an answer. I'm so glad we have a chance to chat. I didn't think you'd have too much time for your old friends.

Oh? Elizabeth raised her brow, trying not to laugh. Caroline had never exactly been a friend. Nor would anyone ever accuse her of subtlety. And why is that?

Caroline twirled a lock of carroty red hair. Well, I know for a fact that there's always something going on up in that huge mansion. I saw you yesterday, I waved at you, but then I figured you'd be too busy to stop and chat.

Have you been by to visit Jess and Todd,? she blurted,her eyes shifty. Their home is really nice. And, speaking of homes, I've heard you and Nicholas live in both New York and Connecticut?

Elizabeth swooped her hair to the side. Did you now,?

Flynn and I are traveling to the east coast soon for a publisher's convention. Maybe I'll see you there. I want to get a chance to go everywhere before my baby comes.

Baby?

You didn't hear? Flynn and I are expecting.

Oh? I see, Elizabeth smiled, patting Caroline's arm. Congratulations! But how would I hear unless I had you to tell me Caroline? And you're not even showing yet.

I'm just two months along, Caroline replied, patting her stomach. I hope I don't get as big as Lila. Can you believe she's married to Roger? She acted like he didn't exist in high school. And did you hear all about her father?

No, but I am sure you're about to tell me, Elizabeth played along.

Isn't that wonderful, me, Lila and Enid having children at the same time? And my sister is having a baby too. It's going to be so cute, two cousins close in age.

Oh I know!, she inhaled abruptly, her eyes animated and full of mischief. Wouldn't it be great if you and Nicholas were to have a baby, who'll be close in age to Jake. Won't that be sweet? They'll be best friends, just like you and Jess used to be.

Elizabeth kept her cool, not taking her bait. If Caroline wanted a reaction, she was sure as hell not going to give her one!

But Liz, you do look pale. You're not pregnant are you,? Caroline gasped.

No, I'm not, Elizabeth answered quickly, suddenly occurring to her that she might just be. She muted Caroline's voice from her senses as she babbled endlessly, and all Elizabeth could do was stare blankly.

Is Caroline right?

She thought back to early November in Switzerland when she didn't have her luggage, when she didn't have access to her baby blue compact of pills, and didn't take them for well over two weeks.

Now Liz, tell me all about it.

About what? Elizabeth stared at her, her mind trying to come out of the distraction to make sense of Caroline's interrogations.

Liz, pay attention! Caroline scolded. The yacht that Nicholas named after you. I hear it's practically as big as a cruise ship…. Eight tiers and ten servants. With an Olympic sized pool. Is it true? And you sail to the Caribbean every month. Ten course dinners every night? A wardrobe bigger than Lila's. And jewels to match every...…

Caroline, Elizabeth interrupted her, why do I get the feeling that you already know all the answers to your questions?

Right at that moment, a few more guests entered the room, and Elizabeth took the opportunity to dodge from Caroline's clutches. She got up, feeling better, a surge of energy and the desire to get away from Caroline egging her on.

I'm shirking my duties, she announced. We'll talk later, she promised, hoping that she could keep Caroline at bay for the rest of the evening.


She left the room and reentered the ballroom, looking around for Nicholas. A server in a red jacket offered her a glass of champagne, and she immediately declined, her heart beginning to thump as she pondered the burgeoning thoughts in her head. She walked past the band playing on the dais, and bumped right into Alice, feelings of joy and shame overwhelming her. Her emotions welled up and she found her mother very beautiful, youthful and attractive, her blonde hair worn in an chingnon swooped to the side, her pale plum sleeveless dress showing off her svelte figure.

Elizabeth! Alice folded her arms and gave her a stern look. Is this how things are? I have to come to a wedding to see my own child. You were supposed to come by the house yesterday! And you've been running all around here, and except for a brief hello over two hours ago…..not giving me and your father any of your time!

Mom, you know how busy I've been, Elizabeth explained averting her guilty expression.

Alice narrowed her eyes. Now that the wedding is over, we want you home. We want you to come over and spend quality time with us!

But Mom…..

No butts!

Now, let me take a look at you, her mother said, putting her hands at the side of Elizabeth's face. Mmmmm, you look a little pale.

Well I…..It was on the tip of her tongue to share her new found suspicions, but she couldn't, especially with the way her mother was eyeing her. And if anyone should know first, it had to be Nicholas. That is after she confirmed it for herself. She wanted more than anything to confide in Alice, but the timing wasn't right. She watched as her father approached them, a small plate filled with hors d'oeuvres in his hand.

You what?

I'm just happy to see you, that's all, she said, giving Alice a hug. This topic was just going to have to wait...….