One Long Flight 💙

Plans

"Ugh." Aisling hung up the phone, placing it on the coffee table as she sat in Chris's living room, six months before the wedding.

Concerned, Chris set aside his book and reached over, his hand resting on her thigh. "What's wrong, Aisling?"

She stood up and began pacing, her frustration evident. "Katie won't be able to be in the wedding. She's pregnant and can't fly all the way to London."

He sighed sympathetically. Standing up, he gently approached her, trying to halt her pacing. "I'm really sorry, love. But it'll work out, you'll see."

"No, it won't! I'll have no one standing with me. Everyone there will be your family, your friends. I'll be all alone!" She hugged herself, her agitation clear.

Chris moved closer and pulled her into a hug, his soothing presence offering comfort. "Your parents will be there, Aisling. Take a deep breath. Remember, it's going to be a small wedding."

She let out a frustrated exhale and released herself from the hug, resuming her pacing. "It's not the same. I need someone to be my maid of honor, help me with the wedding details, and just be there for me."

He attempted to reason with her. "Alright. Let's take a step back. Go lie down, take a nap, and try not to think about it for a while."

She was about to protest when a knock on the front door interrupted them. Letting out an exasperated sigh, she opened the door to find Sam standing there. "Oh, for fuck's sake."

"Hi, I..."

Before Sam could finish her sentence, Aisling slammed the door shut and turned back to Chris, clearly agitated. "Tell me you didn't invite her."

Chris shook his head vehemently. "No, Aisling. I promise, I didn't call her."

Stepping out of sight, Aisling listened as Chris opened the door and confronted Sam. "Sam, what are you doing here?"

Sam attempted to enter, but Chris blocked her way. "I heard you're getting married again. I thought maybe you could use my help."

Chris let out an exasperated groan. "I'm sorry, Sam. But we've decided to handle things ourselves. It's best if you're not involved."

Aisling stepped back into view as Chris closed the door. "Did you say 'we'? 'We' aren't comfortable?"

Chris smiled and nodded. "Yes, we are a 'we' now. So, if you're not comfortable, then we aren't comfortable." He affectionately ran his fingers through her hair. "I love you, Aisling. Now, why don't you take Dodger and go rest for a bit?"

Aisling chuckled softly. "Okay. I love you too."

✈️

Aisling woke up to the sensation of Dodger licking her face, which brought a smile to her lips. She got up and followed the sound of voices downstairs. Walking into the kitchen, she found Chris, Tara, and Scott engaged in conversation. "Hey guys. What's going on?" She greeted them with hugs before taking a seat at the kitchen table.

Tara leaned over, placing her hand on Aisling's, offering a warm smile. "Chris told us you might need some company and support. We consider you family too, and we're here for you just as much."

Aisling nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, both of you. I'm glad to have you here."

Tara's gaze shifted between Aisling and Chris. "If you're okay with it, I'd be honored to stand up with you at the wedding. And I'm here to assist you with anything you need leading up to the big day."

"Really?" Aisling's eyes lit up with gratitude.

Tara chuckled and stood up, hugging Aisling tightly. "Of course! We're in this together."

After the hug, Aisling took her seat again. "Okay. So, my parents have taken care of the venue—the secret garden. It includes everything, like the reception, food, and photographer. But I haven't sorted out my dress, suits, or lodging."

Tara chimed in. "Actually, lodging is covered."

Aisling glanced at Chris, her curiosity piqued. "What do you mean?"

He shrugged, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "I talked to your parents. We have lodging arrangements at a hotel nearby the wedding venue. Separate rooms, of course."

Aisling laughed, feeling a mix of surprise and appreciation. "You've thought of everything. I do need a moment alone with Tara and Scott though, so could you give us some space?"

Chris stood up, acknowledging her request. "Sure thing. I'll head upstairs."

Once he was gone, Aisling turned to Tara and Scott, pulling out her phone. "I've been thinking about the wedding attire. I don't really want a traditional white dress. What do you think of this one?" She showed them a picture of the dress on her phone and then swiped to show a suit for Chris. "And this suit for Chris?"

Tara picked up the phone, examining the images. "They're both stunning, Aisling."

Aisling sighed with relief and nodded. "Good. I just want everything to be perfect, you know? We've come a long way to get here, and now the wedding is just a few months away."

Tara offered a reassuring smile. "It's natural to want everything to be perfect, but remember, something unexpected often happens. Imperfections can add charm to the day. Nevertheless, Scott and I will be here to help in any way we can."

Scott nodded in agreement. "Count on us, Aisling. Whatever you need."

Aisling smiled back at them, feeling grateful for their support. "Thank you both. And Scott, please make sure Chris is dressed and ready on time. Preferably sober."

Scott chuckled. "You've got it. I'll make sure he's in top form."

Together, they laughed and continued discussing wedding plans, knowing that with the support of friends and family, the day would be special no matter what challenges arose.