Strong (Book 2 in the No Control series)

Chapter 6

Caroline picks me up for my gown appointment. We leave the guys to hang out at the house. Everyone else is already at the bridal shop when we arrive. We all greet each other and I thank everyone for coming. I give Karen an extra big hug.

The designer asks me some questions. I give him the details on our wedding plans. He also asks what type of style I'm looking for.

"I feel like everyone does a strapless gown, so I want to steer away from that." I say.

"Alright, that helps. What are you looking for? If you could give the style a name, what would it be?"

"Oh that's good, I like that!" Caroline says.

I think for a moment, all eyes are on me. Then it comes to me. "Tasteful, sexy, princess."

There are an abundance of "oohs" around the room. "Yes, that is totally your style." They all agree.

The designer laughs. "Alright then, let's go look, Liz."

I try on the first gown and head out to show everyone. They all think it's quite beautiful, but that it looks more like an evening gown.

I try on a few more, everyone thinks they are pretty, no big wows however.

Now it's time to try on the first gown that had caught my eye. Something about it just spoke to me.

The girl who is helping me into it stands back and her jaw drops. "Wow." Is all she says. I guess that's a good reaction. I turn to look in the mirror and my heart skips. I look like a modern day Cinderella.

We add rhinestone heels and a veil. I head out to show everyone. I am not expecting the reaction I get.

Karen's hands move to over her heart, and I swear there are tears in her eyes. Caroline gasps and puts her hands over her mouth. A few of the other ladies clap. The designer himself says. "Liz, dear, this is your gown. I've never made a gown that was so perfectly meant for someone before."

I am beyond flattered. Caroline and Karen approach me. "Liz, sweetie, this is THE gown. Without a doubt." Caroline says.

"You look like Cinderella." Karen adds.

I look at her, taking her hand. "Will Liam love it?"

She smiles. "Yes dear, I'm positive. He will be blown away."

I turn to look in the mirror again. I hardly recognize myself. The gown has a full A line skirt, hand beaded with pearls and rhinestones. The bodice is fitted. The low sweetheart neckline provides just the right amount of cleavage, yet remaining tasteful. The "sleeves" are off the shoulder, sheer fabric with the perfect amount of rhinestones.

When I saw it on the hanger, I felt a connection to it. As I stand in front of this mirror, I feel like a Disney princess. I turn to face everyone with happy tears in my eyes. "I have found my wedding gown."