North and South

Distant Sun

July 1997

Erin wrung her hands together and paced up and down ceaselessly. Her stomach was knotted tightly and her heart pounded in her chest. The restrictive white dress wasn't helping.

"Will you fucking pack it in? You're making me dizzy." Said Liam as he swigged from his hip flask then readjusted his tie.

Erin glared at him.

"I can't exactly help it!"

She held out her hands in front of her. They shook violently. She was so nervous. Noel approached her and took her hands in his gently.

"Ay. Calm down. You've never done anything half hearted in your life. You commit fully to everything you really believe in. You know this is right. That he's right for you. So theres no need to be nervous."

Erin exhaled shakily amd looked into Noel's eyes encouragingly. She nodded and felt tears sting her eyes at his supportive words.

"You're right. Of course. I can't...I can't tell you how much it means that you're both...both-"

Erin stopped to swallow the lump in her throat. Tears brimmed over her eyes. Noel sighed and shook his head.

"Ay stop that you'll ruin your make up."

Erin quickly stemmed the flow of her tears with her fingers.

"Of course we're here. We helped you take your first steps you know. We'll always be here. No matter what. Promise. I know I've not always been there...but I will be."  Liam said with a soft smile.

"Can you both stop it! I need you to be horrible bastards like you normally are. I can't take this."

Liam and Noel laughed.

There was a knock on the door.

"Come in." Said Erin weakly.

Damon peeked his head around the door.

"They're-wow. You look so beautiful." Said Damon reverently as he looked at Erin proudly.

"Damon. No! I'm already on emotional breakdown 5 of the day. But thanks. So do you. How is he?"

Damon smiled.

"Nervous. But good. They're ready. It's time. We need to head out. Peggy's just coming along. Then you can head out."

Damon approached Erin and kissed her on the cheek.

"Good luck."

She nodded as Liam and Noel embraced her also before leaving her alone. She exhaled and inhaled deeply trying to calm her nerves. She thought about Graham and how even above all the nerves she was completely sure this was the right thing to do. Deep in her heart and soul she knew they were meant to be together and that they would weather whatever came their way. They were strong enough to last.

Peggy walked in and gave her a watery smile.

"Mam no. Not you as well. I can't take this."

Peggy smiled proudly as she adjusted Erin's veil so it came over her face. She carefully adjusted the back of her gown. Liam and Noel had attempted to button it up properly but unsuccessfully.

"You're the most beautiful thing I ever seen. It's a privilege to give you away. And to a good man. Wouldn't let you go for anything less."

Erin turned and embraced Peggy tightly.

"I love you mam."

"I love you too. Now let's get out there. Don't keep him waiting."

Erin nodded as she picked up her bouquet and looped her arm around Peggy's as they made their way down the aisle.