Emotions Held Back
During the next few days, the whole Garden was aware of the wedding that was soon to be held. Everyone had been busy in either decorating the place or making last minute changes. Rinoa, of course, choose her two closest friends, Selphie and Quistis to be her bridesmaid while Matron as her Maid of Honor. Squall had chosen Zell to be his best man while Irvine as the usher.
Selphie and Quistis burst into her dorm, both holding a large shopping bag.
Hi guys! Rinoa greeted.
We got the dresses today!! Selphie cried while jumping up and down. Quistis on the other hand, retained her calm demeanor. It's not that she was upset about their marriage. She was just as happy as Selphie but presented the matter in a more calmer state. The awkwardness of the man she used to have some slight affection for, marrying one of her best friends is surely drowning. Both girls reached into their paper bags and pulled out a simple, yet stunning, matching pairs of blue gowns.
Oh my god! It's gorgeous!! It's perfect!! exclaimed Rinoa.
Do you mind if we try it on right now? asked Selphie.
Not at all. I'll be back in awhile. I have to bring these boxes to the Quad first.
Ok. Oh! Have you decided on a wedding dress yet? asked Quistis.
No...not yet. I can't seem to find the one that matches me, answered Rinoa. She frowned slighly but then shook her head. Don't worry, I'm sure I'll find one in time.
Satisfied with her answer, Quistis and Selphie nodded.
Alright then, I guess I'm off to the Quad now! Be back later!
~*~*~*~*~*~
Rinoa let out a long sigh of fatigue. This was her fourth trip to the Quad and the exhaustion was finally catching up to her. She adjusted the crates in her arms again and continued moving forward. Rinoa suddenly found herself tumbling. A careless slip caused her to fall on her knees and the materials landed all over the floor.
The girl was surprised to find a dark gloved hand extending out to her. Dazed, Rinoa reached out for that hand and used it as an aid to help her stand. She bent down again and started picking up the contents. It was later when she realized that she never got to thank the person for helping her. She gazed up at a very tall figure.
Seifer simply smirked and picked up a white star she had neglected to retrieve. So, how's the wedding coming along? He played with the small object and then tossed it back into the box. Need some help with those? She nodded and handed him a pack to carry.
said Rinoa sheepishly. Oh, and it's coming out really well. We got most of the things planned and stuff. All we need to do is lighten this place up. You know, make it all pretty and stuff.
I see, was his brusque reply. If it was one thing that Seifer admired about her was her optimistic attitude. She always sees everything on the bright side...which was the total opposite of him.
It's going to be so wonderful, Rinoa sighed dreamily.
Yeah......I'm sure it will be.
Are you gonna come? I know everyone is invited and all but I wanted to ask you personally...
His heart skipped a beat. I don't know. He was quite surprised by his own answer. Somehow, he didn't feel so happy and cheery like the rest of the Balamb students. He didn't know how it would feel to watch his rival marrying his ex-girlfriend.
Ex-girlfriend......is was a shame that she fell for that loser Squall after I sided with the sorceress. I wonder how it would be like if we were still together. I guess I'll never know now...
Oh ok then...... Rinoa felt no need to continue on with that subject. Her instincts were that Seifer wasn't too interested in it. But why is he hesitating to come? Is it because of me? Squall? Or maybe its the fact that he's just......Seifer.
He pointed to the small, shiny band on her left ring finger. So I see that's your engagement ring huh?
Oh yeah!! Isn't it beautiful? Its so perfect!! Rinoa gracefully plotted her hand in front of the man so he can get a closer look.
Sure is something, he said forcefully.
Seifer immediately noticed the wings, which probably represents her and Griever, which definitely represents Squall. It didn't seem like Squall had brought it due to it's specific details that matched their personalities perfectly. Did he make this?
No, Zell made it. He's really talented at these stuff.
Damn...I hate to admit this but that chicken wuss did a pretty nice job.
Well then, lets get going. Rinoa marched on ahead but Seifer lagged a little slower behind.
He stared at his own ring that was firmly fit on his middle finger for a second. He too had his own symbolization. A fire cross was pressed down at the center of the silver round rim. It rendered his fiery in strength, courage, bravery, and pride. Those which he definately did not lack.
An impatient feminine voice echoed between the distances of the two. Hey! Come on! Hurry up!! We have to get to the Quad!
~*~*~*~*~*~
Squall turned around to see who walked in, holding off the conversation he was having with Zell and Irvine. He was suprised again to find Seifer and Rinoa...together. However, Rinoa didn't seem to take this seriously. Both of them rested the supplies they were carrying on a nearby mantle.
His angel ran up to him and embraced him into a tight hug. She nearly knocked him over for the fact that he was caught completely off guard. The Quad's beautiful!! Her head spun around so she can catch every aspect of the area.
Squall had instructed a group of Garden faculties under Cid to help turn the Quad into the Inauguration Party scenery. Large golden poles were already set up at each end. Above them stood a couple of workers who were polishing the transparent windows. Although the place was only half accomplished, it still looked extremely enhanced.
Thanks. I knew you'd like it. You mind going over there and check with Zell and Irvine along with the faculties on the lighting?
Of course! Rinoa happily ran over to the small group of people who huddled over multi switches, debating on which one to use.
Squall seized this opportunity to have a word with his rival.
Well well well...looks like puberty boy is finally maturing, Seifer snickered.
Shut up!! I wanted to ask if you are coming or not?
Wow...two invitations in one day.....
Yeah, Rinoa also asked me. I guess I must be really special huh? he chuckled.
What's that suppose to mean? asked Squall. He could feel his muscles tense while his eyes flashed in mild frustration.
sneered Seifer, enjoying the reaction.
Look, I'm just curious to know if you're attending or not.
Eh...well...since you asked so nicely, I'll see, Seifer said sarcastically with a hint of mixed anger and jealousy.
What's his problem? Its not like I'm a big fan of wanting him to be there. I was just asking to be polite......
