The Affectionate Player - Part2

Chapter 24

Much to everyone's relief the forecasted heatwave has arrived granting the dry and smooth erection of the marquee. Through a haze of final preparations and the arrival of our guests the past two days have flown by. I love the idea of hosting our wedding at my childhood home with our closest friends and family sharing in our joy though as each hour passes nervous excitement ensues and it's only now that I can truly appreciate dad's foresight to build a log cabin overlooking his coveted lake. Nestled on the edge of the overgrown woodland it will serve beautifully as our honeymoon suite providing a couple of days of much needed peace and tranquillity before we jet off to the romantic secret surprise my soon-to-be-husband has arranged.

This last week has at times been borderline chaotic prompting Soph and Connie to entertain the kids today, leaving Max and I the morning to oversee the arrival of the marquee furnishings and decor. And now with preparations well underway we set off to the rectory to finally meet in person the delightful Reverend Black who exceeds all expectations. A wonderfully funny man we had discovered while Face-timing, he puts us immediately at ease with his warm smiles and prayers, and with vows rehearsed we settle on six for a run through with our bridal party.

Finishing earlier than planned we take full advantage of our free time ducking into the village teashop to feast our bellies on Mrs Stewart's renowned homemade scones and macaroons. Soph would surely disapprove if she knew my intentions but last time I'd been here with Gil and my parents I'd had the discomfort of unknown morning sickness along with a broken heart causing me to dismiss the delicious sweet treats. Today however I can't resist, especially having tried on my gown earlier and knowing I've a little room to negotiate.

There's no mistaking the charming old lady with her soft grey hair netted and tucked neatly below her crisp white hat. I smile at her as she takes a few moments to contemplate, her bright green eyes studying us.

"Well, I never! It's...It's the pair of ya! In ma teashop after all these years!"

"Hello, Mrs S." Max beams. "How are you?"

"Fighting fit normally but I think ya might have stopped ma ticker!"

"But that won't do at all! For who else would bake these scrumptious delicacies?" He remarks dramatically much to her delight, pointing to the abundance of coconut macaroons displayed under a glass cover.

"Indeed. Welcome home bairns." Touched by her warmth we thank her in unison.

"So you fancy some to take away with ya?" she asks playfully, shuffling from behind the counter and as if her own children she takes us in her arms in turn.

"We certainly do." Max grins.

"Well, then. I'll wrap a few. Saves ya stuffing them into yer pockets like ya did as a wee laddie!"

"Mrs Stewart, please! Not in front of my future wife."

"Future wife, he says. I cannae get over it!"

"Max Jacob, you didnae?" I tease.

"Oh he did, Gracie, love. Near on every day in summer."

"I've no idea what she means." He fibs snickering like the school boy she appears to remember.

"You think I didnae have eyes in ma heed? Did you think growing your hair again would make me not recognise ya? And me always so good to ya!"

"That you were. I'll settle up now, shall I?" He plays along with the tomfoolery removing his wallet from his shorts.

"You'll do no such thing!" She winks taking his cheeks between her fingers and thumbs. "Your uncle Joe, God rest him, knew exactly what ya were at. He came in once a week to check what was owing."