146 Party Night!
(Winona)
As the days passed, Abby got stronger and the plans came together beautifully. The garden is transformed into a magical wonderland with twinkling lights and colorful decorations.
We arranged for a caterer, a drinks service, a live band, and a photographer to capture every precious.
moment.
There’s also children’s activities and child carers on hand for later.
There’s a real energy picking up and I don’t think anyone has not been able to come.
As Jayden and I head into the kitchen to check on last minute things, he brings up another topic that’s clearly been on both of our minds. “You know, with Mother and Gus planning to leave soon, things might finally be normal for us.”
I nod. “I hope so. I’m not sure we even know how to do normal. Maybe with Judy gone, we can find some peace and stability.”
Jayden’s expression turns serious. “I’ve been thinking a lot about what Mother almost did to you. What she ultimately did to me. Even though I know now she tried to call it off. It’s hard to just move past it, even if she’s been helpful recently.”
“I know,” I say softly. “But the distance will take the pressure off you. I don’t think you need to feel like you have to get over it anytime soon. I sure don’t expect that, and Judy has no right to expect anything.”
Jayden sighs. “It’s going to take time for me to trust her again.”
“I’m not sure I’ll ever trust her. Not really. But maybe we’ll just have to eat an elephant,” I suggest, hoping to ease his mind.
He nods. “One bite at a time.”
“And in the meantime, we’ll focus on Abby and our future. This party is a good start.”
He nods, his smile returning. “You’re right. Let’s make it a night to remember.”
“Then I guess we’ll have a date to set and a wedding to plan.”
Jayden takes me in his arms and his lips are on mine. I let it happen. I want his touch, his kisses. I want to be with him in every way. I hope we can get back to that carefree place very soon.
Maybe tonight is the night and we can make it extra special.
And as I relax in Jayden’s arms for a few more seconds, I’m satisfied that the future for us will be very normal and boring.
“Come on, let’s get back to our guests, everything is on track in here.”
“I’d like to track you right up to the bedroom.”
I laugh. “I bet you would, but we need to go and be hosts. Besides, Anne will be here soon. I want to be out there to meet her.”
146 Party Night
“I know that’s important to you.”
“Bobby and Sarah may be a little nervous, I want to make them feel at home.”
“You are an amazing person.”
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“It’s not their fault. I know Anne can help them and I’d like to be a part of that as well. I feel responsible somehow.”
“You are not responsible for anything that happened to them.”
“Maybe not, but I’d like to be responsible for helping create a happy future for them.”
“Let’s go.” Jayden and I go outside hand in hand and the party is in full swing. I’m very proud and lucky to be surrounded by so much love and support.
Abby is dancing with some friends with her gorgeous ice–blue dress billowing around her. She looks so happy. That’s all I ever wanted.
in these I see Anne coming through the fairy wonderland that is the gateway and I wave. If I could run ruby red heels I would. My elegant slinky dress matches my shoes in color and also in inability to let me move quickly.
But it was Abby’s choice and she thought the red looked the best. So the red it is.
I hug Anne forever when I get to her and I see Bobby and Sarah lingering behind her.
I hold a hand out to each of them. “Hey, you two. Come and see this place. It’s amazing. Abby will be so excited to see you both.”
Sarah grabs my hand but Bobby is a little reluctant. “You okay, Bobby?”
He shrugs.
“Look, no matter what happens you are part of my family now.”
He shrugs again.
“How about we just be friends, start fresh. Okay?”
He nods and gives a small smile.
“Come on, we’ll go get some cotton candy and a drink. It’s all set up down the back. You can go play with the other kids or you can just chill and watch a movie in the theater room,
I walk with them until Abby spots us and she comes running up screaming their names and she gives them both a big hug. “Come on. This is so cool. Come see.”
She heads off holding Bobby’s hand, walking towards the lazer light show in the trees.
Anne is beside me again now. “Wow, you really know how to throw a party.”
“I think we all need this release. You look beautiful, Anne.”
“Thank you. Feels like forever since I wore a gown and heels.”
“I think there’s someone here who will really appreciate that and I do believe he has that same shade of
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