Filling in the Cracks

Chapter 43: A New Dream

I stood there in shock. Almost captivated. I stared into the familiar blue orbs. I gave him a quick once over. Kayden was wearing a grey tux with a tie, the same color as my dress. The lady from behind kept pushing and whisper yelling our names but I ignored her and focused on the image in front of me. He looked even better in person. His stubble was now gone but the pearly whites stayed.

I was broken out of my trance when Kayden had looped his arm around mine and we started to walk down the aisle. My steps were slow and steady unlike my heartbeat.

Out of all the people in the world, it had to be Kayden Rivers that I was walking down the aisle with?

I looked around and saw the familiar faces. I saw Opal and Marnie seated next to their dates I suppose. As we walked towards the front I saw the smiling faces of Derek, Clarissa, and Cleo. I suppose they were in on it too. I smiled so widely it almost hurt. I looked in front of me and saw the groomsmen on the left and the bridesmaids on the right.

I looked at the line of groomsmen. James, Matt, a few people I didn't know, and now Kayden. I started to walk to the girls line and viewed James and Matt. Both looked so, how do I put it, mature. I gave James the saddest smile I could as he returned. I missed him, no doubt.

I looked over my shoulder to my right and smiled at the few girls who I didn't know and looked at the front of the bridesmaids. That's when I saw them. Mac and Nalani. My bestfriends who I had missed a heck of a lot. Mac had grown her naturally curly hair out which was now pin straight, while Nalani cut her extremely long brunette locks to shoulder height, which were now in soft curls.

I gave them the biggest smile I could afford. I was on the verge of tears. I saw their shocked faces and almost laughed out loud, but shut myself up when the pianist started to play indicating the bride was coming.

I hadn't even glanced at the groom. I looked straight in front and saw the sight of Brandon. Zoe's fiance who was now going to be her husband. I smiled at him but I knew he didn't see since his eyes were fixed on the door

I mimicked his actions facing the door to see Zoe, walking the down the aisle with my dad.

Zoe. What can I say. She had always looked stunning but at this moment words can't describe how happy she looked. Her red hair was now dyed back to her brown hair and it suited her well. Her dress had a sweetheart neckline and a mermaid ending with embellishment all through out the veil. Now I know how people feel when they think somebody looks speechless.

Four years (almost five) ago, Zoe promised to postpone her wedding until I was graduated from college. She kept her promise even after I ran away. She kept hope in me. I felt guilt rush over me. I definitely didn't deserve Zoe. Or anyone in that matter.

I smiled at the blushing bride, she turned to me sending a smile of happiness and shock. I saw a tear roll down her cheek and knew it was all because of the moment. It was overwhelming. A tear of joy.

The preacher started the ceremony and I looked around slightly.

As of today, my identity is no longer hidden. As of today, I'm no longer the 'Runaway Andrew.' I'm back in New York. My New York.

~

"Do you Zoe Judith Flemmings, take Brandon Hartman, to be your lawfully wedded husband?"

"I do."

"You may now kiss the bride."

I watched as Brandon stepped towards Zoe placing her in a passionate kiss. The guests who were seated were now clapping as the newly wed couple had finished their kiss and headed towards the cocktail room.