Chapter 55

JAYDA

^SIX MONTHS LATER^

“So, how do you feel today?” Vanessa asked Jayda, who was in her robe and seated on the bed. She took a seat beside her.

“Excited, happy, nervous!” Jayda glowed from happiness.

“Before my path crossed with Sebastian, all I gave priority to was my career and close family. I knew I was going to have kids at some point, but I never envisioned myself with my kids or dreamed about what it would be like walking down the aisle and getting married to the love of my life.

“I didn’t even think I would end up having a man like Sebastian that loves me so much. I’m truly blessed.”

Vanessa took Jayda’s hands. “I wouldn’t have asked for a better wife for my only son. And I wish you two all the happiness you could ever ask for,” she said sincerely.

Jayda smiled. “Thanks, Mom. How is Sebby? Is he as nervous as I am?” Jayda couldn’t help but ask. She missed him terribly. They’ve been separated for two days now and even their phones were seized by their friends, just so they wouldn’t contact each other.

Vanessa winked. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen my son as nervous as he is today. He’s afraid you might think he’s not good enough and then back out.”

Jayda shook her head. “I’d be very silly to walk out of his life. It’s either Sebby or no one else for me.”

“I know you love my son so much, and I have no doubt he loves you too. Marriage has its own challenges, but I believe the bond you two share can overcome every obstacle. Whenever you are not happy or comfortable with anything, talk to him about it. Because from now on, he is your other half and your confidant.

“I’ve talked to him also and made him understand that he’s not to do anything that will hurt you or my grandchildren. I have no doubt you two will have a happy married life.” Vanessa wiped away a happy tear.

“Thanks, Mom.” Jayda hugged her almost mother-in-law.

“I also have something for you.” Vanessa pulled away from the hug and reached for the jewelry box that was beside her.

She opened it and showed it to Jayda.

“Wow!” Jayda exclaimed as she admired the silver necklace with its matching earrings.

“It was Albert’s wedding gift to me, and I want you to have it.”

Jayda looked at Vanessa in shock. “No, Mom, I can’t accept it. Dad gave it to you, and it’s meant to be yours forever.”

Jayda closed the jewelry box. She was returning it when Vanessa stopped her.

“This jewelry is one of my most precious items, which is why I want you to have it. I also want to start a tradition with it. The jewelry is a symbol of love between Albert and me, and I want you to pass it on to any of my grandchildren.”

“Are you sure about this, Mom?” Jayda whispered.

Vanessa replied with a nod. “Albert is aware. He also gave his blessing for me to give it to you. But don’t mistake this for our wedding gift to you and Sebastian. We will give you your real wedding gift at the reception. Now, let’s keep getting you ready to walk down that aisle!”

“Sounds like I’m just in time,” Grace said as she walked into Jayda’s suite with breakfast.

She ate and chatted with her two mommies, and soon enough the makeup artists came to get her ready for the wedding.

***

JAYDA

“Isn’t your Mom the most beautiful bride in the world?” Jayda heard her best friend say.

She turned around and saw Lilian walking toward her with Ariella in her arms. Ariella was now a handful but, at the same time, a good baby. She wanted you to cuddle and play with her all the time. In all, she was an attention seeker.

“I’m so nervous!” Jayda smiled and gave Lilian a half hug before collecting Ariella from her. The little girl wore a smaller version of Jayda’s dress, and she had a cute headband on.

“Hi, princess.” Jayda cooed at her daughter who responded with a toothy grin.

“She’s growing up so fast.” Lilian wore a lovely bridesmaid’s gown.

“I know, it was just like yesterday when I gave birth to her. Thanks for dressing her up. She looks yummy.” Jayda was so proud of her daughter, and she loved her best friend for being there on her special day.

“Anything for my goddaughter. I hope she doesn’t yank off her headband.”

Jayda let out a soft laugh. “I’m hoping she will be good today because it’s Mama and Daddy’s wedding. Won’t you?” She smiled as she played with Ella’s cheeks.

The little girl uttered a few baby words in return which made Lilian and Jayda laugh out loud. It was as if she understood what her mommy said and was promising she was going to be a good girl.

“So, are you ready to marry the second handsomest man in the world? Because Roman the most handsome to me,” Lilian joked as she sat next to Jayda on the couch.

“I honestly can’t wait.” Jayda bounced Ariella gently.

“Someone is pretty excited to be Mrs. Jayda Miller. I wish the same could be said about Sebastian. Roman told me he’s a total mess. He’s really nervous.” Lilian chortled at the idea of her grumpy cousin being so out of sorts.

Jayda nodded as her heart thumped a little faster. “I’m quite nervous too.”

“Congratulations on your wedding, best friend. I wish you and Sebby lots of love and a blissful marriage.” Lilian gave Jayda a side hug.

“Thank you, Lily. And mind you, only I get to call my soon-to-be husband ‘Sebby,’” Jayda joked.

“I also have something to tell you but I think it can wait,” Lilian said shyly.

“You can tell me now, I’m all ears,” Jayda assured. Ariella squirmed in her mommy’s lap, and Jayda cooed at her to keep her from crying.

Lilian shook her head. “It’s your day, and I don’t want to take away your shine.”

“Is it bad news?” Jayda asked curiously.

LILIAN

“Nope,” Lilian replied, forcing herself not to speak any further.

“Then tell me, because no matter what you say, I’ll still have my shine. I’m the one getting married to the ~most~ handsome man in the world and the spotlight will be on only Seb and me, because we will be the ones people will be congratulating. So tell me what’s on your mind!” Jayda demanded.

Lilian let out a sigh; she was hoping she would be able to keep the news until after the wedding, but it was getting harder every time.

“You have to promise me you won’t freak out,” she said.

JAYDA

Jayda felt a tickle of uncertainty wash over her. Lilian looked so strange. What could be wrong?

“I promise. Tell me.”