Reaching for Love

Chapter 10: Saying Yes to the Dress

BELLA

It was one of those things that every girl dreams about... trying on wedding dresses and saying yes to the perfect one! I dreamed of the day I was go on the hunt for my dress. I was scared to go into the bridal salon. Alice and Rosalie each took a hand and dragged me in, I was laughing the whole time. Had I been in their shoes, I would have done to same.

Walking into the salon was like getting a small glimpse of heaven! It contained hundreds, maybe thousands, of different dresses, different styles. It was overwhelming. When the sales associate asked me what I envisioned myself wearing, I hadn't a clue in the moment. Yes, I had imagined my wedding, had a child's fantasy of what I would wear. Was what I imagined as a little girl still what I wanted? I wasn't sure.

The associate smiled. "That's fine. I know it's overwhelming. How about we look at some in various styles?"

I followed behind Alice and Rosalie as the associate lead us to a large dressing room with a sofa, chairs, and a couple of table.

"How about some champagne?" the associate asked.

"Make it sparkling cider. I don't drink," I replied.

~~~ Reaching for Love ~~~

After several glasses of cider and more gowns than I could count, a dress caught my eye. I had to try it on.

It had a sweet vintage flair with a short tulle skirt. Delicate lace created a stylish illusion-sweetheart neckline and heart-shape cut out at back. More lace details extended from the bodice to the waist and trims.

"I want to try it on," I announced.

The sales associate placed in a fitting room.

Slipping behind the door, I disrobed and donned the gown. Uh, I couldn't find the zipper.

"A little help please."

Alice stepped in. She zipped and button me into the dress.

"So…" I said, facing her.

She shook her head. "Not going to give my opinion. You have to be the one to say 'yes.'"

Going out into the sitting area, I stood in front of the three-way mirror and frowned. "I like the skirt and the length, but not the top. It's a little too flashy for me."

Everyone smiled at me.

"Let me go and pulled some similar dresses," the clerk said.

I tried on another six gowns before I found the "one." My eyes lit up the moment I saw myself in the mirror. The gown still had a vintage, timeless feel to it. The skirt swirled and flared out around me as I twirled. It made me feel giddy.

Rosalie and Alice were chuckling when I stopped twirling.

"This is the dress."

After changing, I was shown different headpieces and veils. I didn't like any.

"I want real flowers in my hair," I said as Alice pulled out a credit card and paid an outrageous amount. I held my tongue. "Maybe with a few tendrils hanging down the side of my face."

"That would be lovely with the gown," Rosalie remarked. "A little dusting of blush, a little rose coloring on your eyes and lips."

"Bring out her natural beauty… yes, not much will be needed."

Alice appraised me, and I squirmed under it.

I was used to blending into the background, not standing out. It wasn't that I wanted to blend in but never really had the money to buy the latest fashion.

In a day, I had found Edward. He lavished me with gifts, a vacation, and wants to protect me by marrying me. Him having money didn't bother me. It made me uncomfortable to be given expensive gifts and there have been many since yesterday. I might not get used to it, however I was loving having someone given what I never imagined I wanted.

A/N: To see the dress Bella was giddy about, see my blog (link on my profile) .