“Just open the door. I’ll be quick. Promise.”
“Finn, I’m already dressed. You can’t see me.”
“All these wedding rules and traditions are fucking stupid. If it were up to me, I’d walk you down the aisle.”
“Think that may hurt my dad’s feelings, baby. He’s kinda been looking forward to this for twenty-five years.”
“Yeah, he’s told me about a dozen times today. He’s twitching so much you’d think this was his wedding.”
“He wants everything to be perfect. It’s kind of cute.” I giggle at the fact my dad has been a nervous wreck since the rehearsal dinner last night.
“As far as I’m concerned, it’ll be prefect the second you become Presley Black.”
“I really like the sound of that.” Butterflies dance around my stomach.
“Are you doing okay?” Concern seeps through his tone.
“Of course, why?
“Your dad told me Elisa called.”
“She did,” I whisper through the lump forming in my throat. “I’m okay. The purpose of the call was to congratulate me. Then she thanked me for being such a good role model for Winnie and loving her so much.”
“How did you guys leave it? Did she mention visiting?”
“Not anytime soon, but I left that door open. I’ll never deny Winnie a relationship with Elisa as long as it doesn’t disrupt her life.”
“You truly are incredible.”
“So are you.”
“Look down, babe.”
I do as he says right as a small piece of paper is slid under the door.
“What’s this?”
“A little note.”
“Finn, I have dodged two breakdowns in the last ten minutes. Please don’t make me cry.”
“I’m standing on the other side of the door. If I hear sobs, I’m coming in.”
I unfold the note and smile at the simple message:
When I first saw you, with your smile so tender
My heart was captured, my soul surrendered ~Elvis Presley
I lay my forehead against the door and breathe deeply. “I love you, Finn.”
“Love doesn’t come close, but it’ll do. I’ll see you soon.” He disconnects before I can say anything else.
Winnie comes up and tugs on my hand, pulling me back to the rest of the group. Within minutes, there’s another knock at the door, and my dad and Johnny walk in.
Dad takes one look at me, and I fight another impending breakdown. He must see the tears welling up because he shakes his head and blows me a quick kiss. Then he helps Johnny hand out champagne and sparkling juice.
We make small talk until Max comes in to get Winnie. She gives me a quick kiss, grabs her flower girl basket, and leaves, skipping next to Max.