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August 18, 1984
The day had finally arrived. Nick Rhodes and Julie Anne Friedman’s wedding was the kind of glamorous affair that everyone expected from Duran Duran’s enigmatic keyboardist. Set in the heart of London, the ceremony and reception promised to be as extravagant and unique as Nick himself. The media buzzed outside, desperate for a glimpse of the stylish couple and their equally fashionable guests.
Inside, however, the atmosphere was one of warmth and intimacy, filled with the soft hum of laughter, clinking glasses, and the occasional soundcheck from the live band set to perform later.
Months earlier, Valerie sat cross-legged on Nick’s living room sofa, a cup of tea in her hands. She was between shows on her band’s tour, a rare chance to breathe. Across from her, Nick and Julie Anne exchanged an almost conspiratorial glance before Nick cleared his throat.
“Val,” Nick began, smoothing out a non-existent wrinkle on his tailored blazer. “We have something to tell you.”
Valerie raised an eyebrow, setting her cup down. “This sounds ominous. Should I be worried?”
Julie Anne laughed softly, reaching for Nick’s hand. “Not ominous. Exciting.”
Nick’s lips twitched into a smile. “We’re getting married.”
For a moment, Valerie stared at them, her expression unreadable. Then, a wide grin spread across her face as she jumped to her feet, pulling them both into a tight hug.
“Oh my God! Nick, Julie Anne, that’s amazing!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine joy.
Julie Anne beamed, while Nick chuckled, clearly relieved by her reaction. “We were a bit nervous about telling you,” he admitted.
Valerie pulled back, her brow furrowing. “Why on earth would you be nervous?”
“Well, you know…” Nick trailed off, a rare moment of hesitation for the usually confident man.
Julie Anne squeezed his hand, finishing the thought. “We just didn’t want you to feel left out. You’ve been such a big part of Nick’s life, and this is a huge change.”
