Page 36 of Admittedly For Me
Ian
“Emery!”My niece walks over to the dessert table. “Wow, you almost look the same.” Emery smiles, taking in how much my niece has grown.
“Sophie?” She hasn’t seen her since she was seven while she was over and I was caring for my father.
“The one and only.” She giggles. “My uncle said not to bug you, but it’s been foreverrrr.” She giggles and drags out with excitement. “I remember asking my mom to dye my hair like yours for months after I met you.”
“You’re not bugging me.” Emery shoots me a pointed look. “Today has been busy, but I’m glad you came over to say hi.”
“I noticed this was the first moment you’ve gotten alone and told Sophie to wait a bit.” I shrug as Emery’s eyes soften.
“It’s fine. Wow, you’ve grown up, Sophie.” Emery stares in awe. “You look exactly like––” she cuts off, not knowing how touchy of a subject it is. “You’re gorgeous.”
“I look exactly like my grandpa.” Sophie laughs, smiling as her eyes brighten. “Well, the girl version. Which is cool.” Sophie glances up at me, and I rest my hand on her shoulder, giving it a small squeeze. “It’s like I still get to see him when I look in the mirror.”
“That’s quite the positive outlook.” I know Emery can feel my eyes scanning her, but keeps her focus on Sophie. “What do you enjoy now to keep busy? I remember you had an extensive doll collection back then.” A wide smile is brought to Sophie’s face from Emery remembering.
“I’ll let you girls catch up.” I lean down, kissing the top of Sophie’s head before heading off to mingle with my friends.
I watch her in the distance as Justin and I get a moment to talk after the ceremony and photos. Hallie looks beautiful, but she always does. Emery has been going through the motions today, smiling when needed, saying the right things, and completely avoiding me at all costs unless it's for a photo or the scripted time with me since we are part of the wedding party.It’s a lot for the both of us to take in after the other night. Not only have I lived with the guilt of not crossing the street, I now know how badly I hurt her. How I played a part in altering her life in a way she isn’t proud of.
A chuckle escapes his throat as he shakes his head. “I know how bad you’ve had it for that girl.” He glances at Emery, then turns his attention to his now wife. “Fight harder this time if she’s really worth it.”
I tip back my beer, watching people take turns asking her the questions about her return and how proud they are with her living her life. Justin and I share a look and wince as a person goes on about her parents and how the hospital has changed since Emery left town.
“She’s happy for Hallie, but she’s painfully pushing through tonight. Look how her smile is in place, and only her eyes are moving.” I should interrupt so she can to escape the crowd for a minute. She’s suffocating.
“Hallie doesn’t mind having a break from the attention.” He winks her way, and she blows him a kiss.
“She needs someone to break down her façade.” Me in particular.
“She’s not a game, Ian.”
“I never said she was. I care and want to fix everything I’ve fucked up.” Emery didn’t need a fresh start. She needed to face her hurt.
“You both deserve to be happy.” Justin clinks his beer bottle on mine.
“Sorry, this is your day.” This is the first time I really look around and observe the twinkling lights and thousands of flowers.“Who knew a barn could look this magical.”
Justin takes in the scenery. “I’m glad it’s everything Hallie wanted it to be. She put so much time into planning this.” He sips his beer and loosens his tie. “Life has been overwhelming lately with scheduling, the honeymoon details, and her pregnancy exhaustion.”
Did he just…
“Pregnancy?” My head snaps between him and where Hallie is across the room. That’s when I notice her champagne glass is still full.
“About that.” Justin’s smile reaches his eyes. “Pretend you’re surprised in a month or so.”
“Holy shit, man!” I try to keep my voice low and not make a scene. “Congrats, Justin. You’re going to be the coolest dad.” Joy fills me, and I vicariously live this moment through him. I smile, hoping one day to have a family of my own.
“I’m pretty damn good with kids,” Justin brags. and he’s earned it. “My nieces and nephews love me.”
“I’m so happy for you.” I pat him on the shoulder as Hallie looks over with suspicion. I can’t help letting my eyes fall to her stomach and hers widen. With a wink her way, I walk back over to my part of the table as dinner and speeches need to be made.
Guests dance as the dinner wraps up and our heartfelt speeches are made. Emery stands by the mini dessert bar, shoving her face with treats and looking busy. I walk over, popping a cream puff in my mouth. I’ve never had a sweet tooth, but Emery’s baking is irresistible. Her gaze remains low as she searches the table, trying to look busy and avoid other guests. She’s been her quiet, non-sassy self all evening, and I’m due for backlash by my upcoming offer.
“Let me twirl you around the dancefloor like a gentleman.” I reach out my hand.
“Yeah, I don’t need a gentleman.” Her huffed laugh settles in her chest as she stares out at the dancefloor.