Her Ideal Boy

The wedding day

Exam week had descended upon the students like a dark cloud, bringing with it an air of tension and apprehension. However, Keith felt an unusual calmness, confidence in her preparation and was ready to tackle both her exams and her cousin's impending wedding. Even though she would miss some of the pre-wedding festivities, she was determined to be there for the most crucial moments. Finally, the last day of exams coincided with the day of the wedding, filling Keith with a joyous anticipation; she could now enjoy the celebration without the weight of exams on her shoulders.

Keith, her mother Reena, and her younger sister Omi sat in the third row of the church, while her middle sister Shanze stood as a bridesmaid for their cousin Rina. The church was resplendent, adorned with flowers and bathed in the soft glow of candlelight. Keith watched with a mixture of admiration and wistfulness as Rina and John exchanged vows, promising a lifetime of love and commitment. As the couple sealed their vows with a kiss, the priest's proclamation of their union echoed through the sanctuary, leaving Keith to imagine her own future, wondering if she would one day stand in Rina’s place.

The ceremony transitioned to an outdoor reception in a beautifully manicured garden. The dance floor, surrounded by a circular arrangement of pink lilies and tulips, was bathed in the golden hues of twilight. The garden was meticulously arranged, with fragrant blooms in vibrant hues that added a touch of magic to the evening. The setting sun casts a warm, golden glow over the garden, making everything sparkle as if dusted with fairy lights. Small lanterns hung from the trees, and a gentle breeze rustled the leaves, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

Keith watched as the newlyweds shared their first dance, a moment so perfect it seemed almost magical. The soft strains of a classical waltz played in the background, mingling with the sounds of laughter and conversation. Her thoughts were interrupted when her gaze fell upon a familiar face across the garden—Zachariah. He caught her eye, and with a playful wink and a smile, sent her heart racing. For a moment, she felt as if her soul had left her body.

As the soft strains of the romantic waltz gave way to lively pop music, guests flooded the dance floor. Keith's eyes remained locked with Zachariah's. He gestured towards the crowd, silently asking if she wanted to dance. Without fully grasping what she was agreeing to, Keith nodded. Zachariah made his way through the throng of guests, taking Keith by the hand and leading her to the center of the dance floor.

They moved together effortlessly, their steps in perfect harmony as if they had been dancing together all their lives. The music swelled around them, and Zachariah's touch was gentle yet firm, guiding her with confidence. Keith could feel the warmth of his hand through the fabric of her dress, sending a thrill through her. They twirled and spun, laughing as they navigated the dance floor. Zachariah's eyes never left hers, and she felt herself getting lost in their depth.

"You're quite the dancer," Zachariah said with a grin, his voice just loud enough to be heard over the music.

Keith blushed, trying to hide her surprise. "I'm not, really. I usually just study."

"Well, you're a natural," he replied, spinning her around again.

Keith laughed, feeling more alive than she had in a long time. The music changed to a faster tempo, and Zachariah led her in a series of playful, energetic moves. At one point, he spun her out and pulled her back in, and she stumbled slightly. But before she could fall, he caught her, his arms steadying her with ease.

"Got you," he said softly, his breath warm against her ear.

Keith's heart skipped a beat. For a moment, she forgot about everything else—the exams, the insecurities, the pressure. All that mattered was the way Zachariah looked at her, with a kind of admiration that made her feel beautiful and confident.

Keith's parents, Reena and Shawn, danced nearby. Shawn, noticing the young man with his daughter, leaned in to whisper, "Who’s that boy dancing with Keith?"

Reena, glancing over, smiled and replied, "Oh, that's Zachariah, her classmate. Why do you ask?"

"Just curious," Shawn responded. "How come he’s here?"

Reena chuckled, "I don't know, maybe they have common friends. But look at her, Shawn. Can't you see how happy she is? She's always so composed, but around him, she seems genuinely at ease and confident. Let's just let her enjoy this moment."

"I’m just being a protective dad," Shawn said, feigning a stern look.

Reena rolled her eyes and continued dancing, spinning around with a light-hearted laugh.

Keith and Zachariah danced and laughed, lost in the moment. After a while, they made their way to the drinks counter. "So, how did you end up here?" Keith asked, still catching her breath.

"The groom is my cousin," Zachariah replied with a grin.

"What a coincidence! The bride is my cousin," Keith said, and they both burst into laughter, sharing stories and finding more common ground.

As they chatted, Zachariah's mother, Patricia, approached the drinks counter. "Hey, Keith! It's so nice to see you again!" she exclaimed warmly.

"Hello, Mrs. Andison!" Keith responded with equal enthusiasm.

"You look gorgeous in that dress, Keith. I knew it would highlight all your best features!" Patricia complimented, causing Keith to blush.

The evening continued with joyous celebrations, laughter, and dancing. Keith introduced Zachariah to her sisters, who were equally taken aback by his charm and good looks. He seemed to fit right in, and Keith couldn't help but feel a swell of pride.

As the night drew to a close, it was time to say their goodbyes. "So, I'll see you on Monday?" Zachariah said, looking at Keith with a smile.

"Definitely. Thank you for the dance and everything. I'm not usually one for dancing," Keith admitted.

Zachariah chuckled, "You danced so well. I'm glad we got to share this evening."

Keith felt a surge of confidence. She had always been self-conscious about her weight and appearance, often feeling unattractive. Yet, Zachariah didn't seem to acknowledge her insecurities, and his genuine compliments made her feel beautiful and confident in a way she hadn't felt in a long time.

Before parting ways, Keith’s father, ever the protective parent, watched them with a cautious eye. "Remember, no matter how charming he is, he’s still just a boy," he said to Reena, who laughed softly and patted his arm.

The final goodbyes were said, and both families left for home, leaving Keith with a heart full of new and unexpected emotions.