Ilse had said that she wanted a quiet wedding, so only Emily, Teddy, Dr Burnley and Perry's Aunt Tom were to be present in the small chapel in Charlottetown to witness the union.

Emily was to once again don the harebell blue gauze and ivory taffeta dress that she had worn for Ilse and Teddy's 'wedding that wasn't'. There hadn't been time to make a new one, and Ilse had insisted she wear it.

"You're the only one who's up there with me, and I don't care if it's a dress you've worn before or if it's more expensive than mine. I'm not superstitious either, so if those old cats have a problem, then it's theirs and not mine."

Emily smiled thoughtfully as she hurried around making last minute adjustments. It was to be a small wedding, but it was what her chums were wanting, so it needed to be perfect.

"You'll be a glorious bride, dearest; absolutely gorgeous. You're not planning to disappear this time are you?" she asked her friend.

"No siree, not this time. It's a plain boring wedding for Ilse tomorrow, since there's no men left for me to profess my love to. Only the one I'm getting married to. You will stay with me tonight, won't you darling?"

"Of course. Still afraid you'll stick your tongue out at the minister?"

Ilse chuckled. "Not right now. But I'm sure by tomorrow I will be."

………………………………………

The next day dawned bright and sunny, and everyone began to get ready.

After dressing herself, Emily went to hep Ilse. There was no big fancy tulle or lacy dress this time – only a simple flowing gown of ivory silk that clung to Ilse's slim figure perfectly.

July 7, 19—

The service went off wonderfully. There was only one slip-up – we arrived before the groom! Ilse and I looked at each other and laughed. How typical of Perry to have a lapse of his 'lawyer' manners and etiquette that Ilse worked so hard to teach him. So we were driven back around the corner to wait until we thought they should have arrived.

While we waited I sat looking and listening to the scenery around us. I had a strong urge to write a poem about it, but I decided that I shouldn't. I need to practice exercising restraint, and besides, I've written plenty before. Instead, I found myself studying Ilse, who had fallen unusually quiet.

"What's the matter, Ilse?" I asked, concerned.

"Oh nothing, darling. I'm just thinking that in a few hours time, Ilse Burnley won't exist anymore. I really am going to marry Perry." Ilse smiled somewhat sadly.

I smiled and hugged her, although inside I was wondering if I would be thinking that too. I mean, for years I've held onto my name, knowing it made me not completely Murray, and wanting to stand apart from them.

But when I marry Teddy, no longer will I be Emily Starr, but Emily Kent. I don't think it will matter much, because I'll always be a Starr, in my heart and in my soul, and nothing can take that from me.

We waited for a few minutes longer before heading back to the church. Thankfully Perry and Teddy had arrived by this time, so we were able to start the service. It was quite romantic having only a few people present, and I felt that Ilse and Perry were pleased. Ilse's eyes shone and I felt insignificant and young as I followed her out.

As if noticing my discomfort, Teddy leaned over and whispered in my ear, "Don't forget, darling, it's our turn next."

This statement thrilled me and I instantly began to feel better.

Life is good and the future looks so inviting and promising.