My Drunken Mistake

And We All Fall Down

Liam took my hand and we went towards the parking lot. I tried to hold back my tears, because in my heart I knew those vows, those loving glances, and that kiss should’ve been mine. I had wanted everything that Eleanor was about to have. The only part of my dream that was a reality was carrying Louis’ baby. Granted, in my dreams he always knew about our child and was excited. Reality was a cold truth.

            I looked to Liam and he looked at me with concern and adoration. I knew he wanted to ask but I wouldn’t respond. I just grabbed his hand and gripped it. If anyone could help me get through all of this it was him. I was just glad that the baby made me sick and have to use the restroom so that I didn’t get up in the part where the priest says, “If anyone has any objection to this union, speak now or forever hold your peace.”

            Luckily the ceremony was short. So as soon as the “newlyweds” left the church, Liam and I made our way to his car. The ride was awkward and silent as Liam drove, staring into space.

            “Liam, are you okay?” I asked, a little concerned.

            “Huh?” He responded.

            I guess he realized what I had asked, because later on he said, “Oh, yeah, Lex,” he shook his head. “It’s just that I have a lot on my mind. Better get going before El or Louis get mad at us for getting to the reception late.”

            I just nodded my head.

            Neither of us spoke any more until we reached the reception. Liam turned the car off and looked towards me. “Are you sure you’re going to be okay?” he asked, glancing down at my stomach.

            I wanted to yell at him that I was not going to be okay, but I knew it wouldn’t change anything. I still needed to get to that reception and face the problem I had created with my head held high.

            “No, I’m fine, just a little tired.” I lied.

            “Are you sure that’s all?” Liam asked, somewhat uncertain.

            I smiled weakly at him, “Yeah, I’m fine.”

            He nodded his head and we headed toward the reception. Once inside my breath caught in my throat. The place looked beautiful. The decorations were turquoise, purple, and green. The centerpieces had peacock feathers in blue sparkly vases. The chairs had streamers draped artfully across the backs. The cake was white with blue, purple, and green fondant in a beautiful swirling design. All I could think was that it should have been for me. The decorations, the guests; all of it should have been for me, for my wedding to Louis.

            Everyone socialized amongst themselves until El and Lou walked in. their arms were looped together and they were laughing. They talked to a few people as they made their way to the table at the front of the room. Louis pulled out Eleanor’s chair for her. She giggled and sat down while I repressed the urge to gag.

            I closed my eyes to keep my tears at bay. A shiver ran down my spine when Liam spoke next to my ear. “Hey, are you hungry?” He asked.

            In that moment I looked towards Louis, whose gaze met mine. His eyes showed a little anger as he saw Liam speaking to me. I gave him a confused look, which he saw. He quickly flashed one of his beautiful smiles. I smiled back at him and looked towards Liam. My stomach decided to grumble and I laughed. “Yeah, I guess I am.” I said.

            Liam gave me a breath taking smile which made my heart skip a beat. “Okay? Why is it I feel like a giddy teenage girl around him?” I thought to myself but I quickly pushed that thought to the side and ignored it, not wanting to dwell on what my sudden interest in my best friend was about. Maybe I was just cursed to fall for unattainable men who just so happened to be my best friends.