Chapter 5

Martha awoke the next morning to the smell of bacon and egg. Smiling, she pulled herself from the warm, comfortable bed, and made her way downstairs. Approaching the kitchen, she stopped by the doorway, watching as Carl cracked the shell of an egg and pored the contents into the frying pan. She walked behind him and placed her arms around his waist. He placed the egg shells in the bin and turned to face her, wrapping his arms around her waist. 'Did you sleep well?' he asked. Martha smiled. 'I always sleep well when you're by my side' she said lovingly.

Carl laughed. 'Cheesy' he nodded, winking at her. Martha punched him playfully in the ribs and laughed as he pretended to be wounded. He pulled her back into a warm embrace. 'I love you' he whispered. Martha smiled. 'I love you too' she looked at his face and reached her lips to his, kissing him softly.

'Breakfast is ready' Carl spoke, as he pulled away and began piling two plates with breakfast. Martha took one and walked into the living room, closely followed by Carl.

'So, you got any plans today?' Carl asked, as he scooped a fork full of beans into his mouth. Martha laughed. 'I'm not sure yet. I might continue the dress hunting' she said. 'I'll call Jack later'

Carl placed his fork down and looked at her. 'You're really close to him, aren't you?' he asked. Martha picked a slice of bread up. 'Yes, he's my best friend' she smiled. Carl took a sip of his coffee and looked at her. 'How would you feel about me asking him to be one of my best men?'

'Really?' Martha smiled. 'He'd love it. What made you ask?'

'Well, I saw how close you were, and I know how much you care about each other. And he's a good friend. I'd like him up there with me, seeing and hearing everything'

Martha kissed his lips softly. 'You are amazing, do you know that?' she asked. Carl shrugged. 'Yes'

'You want me to ask him?' she asked. Carl shook his head. 'No, I'll do it. It should come from me'

'Good' smiled Martha. 'Because I'm taking him dress hunting again today. I need to find a dress soon'

Carl smiled. 'So he'll need mega cheering up, then?' he laughed. Martha smiled sarcastically at him. 'I'm just glad he's going to be there. I'm so lucky to have a friend like him' she smiled.

If only she knew...