Strong (Book 2 in the No Control series)

Chapter 30

Sunlight spills into the room the next morning. I immediately come to the realization that today is my wedding day. Today, I become Mrs. Liam Payne.

I smile thinking about how far Liam and I have come. Who would have thought that a Justin Timberlake movie would spur such an incredible relationship? I'm quietly laughing about that when Caroline and Sara come barging in my room. "Happy Wedding Day!" They both yell. Caroline hands me a cup of coffee. "What were you laughing about when we came in?"

"Oh, nothing." I grin.

From the look on their faces, they don't believe me.

"This is for you." Sara hands me a pad of paper and a pen. "I also gave one to Liam. It's so you can send notes back and forth today. Since you can't see each other."

"How sweet, Sara. Thank you."

"You're welcome. Andy and I are the runners."

I start to write a note. Looking up cautiously I ask. "You won't read them will you, Sara?"

"No, of course not. Except now you've got me curious. But no, no I won't read it." She finishes with a big teasing grin.

My first note to Liam:

'Good Morning, Handsome.

I can't wait till this afternoon.

I was thinking about our JT movie this morning. I love you.

Your Liz

ps I have something special for tonight.'

I fold it up tight. Sara grabs it, running off to deliver it.

"Caroline, I want to go see the gazebo. Before the guests arrive."

She smiles. "Let's go."

I stand at a distance first. Taking in the whole setting. The gazebo dressed up in it's finest mixture of flowing tulle, and roses. The picturesque lake behind it. In front of it the seats that will hold our friends and family as they witness our special moment.

I walk closer. It all looks perfect.

"The roses, they are the same colors as the ones Liam sent you in Paris, aren't they?" Caroline asks.

I look at her, smiling. "Yes. Liam's idea."

She smiles. "I had a feeling."

I look at Caroline, and the few people still working on things. "Could I please have a moment, alone?"

I'm standing in the gazebo by myself. So many emotions fill me. I pull a picture of my parents out of my pocket. "Mom, Dad. I wish you were here. I know that you would love Liam. Please know that I'm happier than I have ever been and that I love Liam more than I ever thought possible."

I feel a hand on my shoulder.

"They know, Lizzie. They are here with you." Harry takes the picture from my hand. He securely attaches it to a set of tulle with roses that faces where Liam and I will be standing.

"There. Best seat in the house."

"Thanks, Harry."

"You're welcome." Then seeing the tears in my eyes, he adds. "Now get back to that cottage and fix yourself up, you look horrible." He winks and grins.

I laugh.

"Hey Caroline. You've got a bride on the loose here. Isn't it your job to corral her?"

Caroline laughs. "Yes it is, Harry. Come on Liz, let's get you back to the cottage."