The Stolen Bride

Chapter 2 - The Church by the Docks

3 months later

Sofia sighed and put down the wedding magazine. She had been tracking down venues for months now and still hadn't found the right one. She had organised almost everything, she just needed a time and a place. Thinking about the time, Sofia checked her watch.

11:53.

Luke was late.

Sofia pulled out her phone and called him. The phone rung out and she heard his message tone.
"Hey honey, I'm just about to leave to check out the church down by the docks. I feel bad leaving without you but the viewing is at 1 and it's an hours drive.
I'll send you pictures. Love you!"

She hung up and sighed. This would be the first wedding decision she would make by herself. Luke had been there every step of the way and now he was probably stuck at work or in traffic. Sofia grabbed her bag and headed to the church by the docks.

***************

"Wow." Sofia gasped as she drove up to the church. It was even more beautiful than the magazine had described.
The little church sat at the top of a light, gravel driveway with rose bushes all the way along the sides. To her right, Sofia could see the docks. The water was a sparkling, crystal blue and there were boats dotted around the harbour.

Sofia parked the car in front of the church and looked around for her guide. When she couldn't see any cars, see checked the time.

1:07

The guide should be here by now. Sofia frowned and checked for bikes or scooters. None. Sofia started heading back to the car when the church doors burst open and a cheery old lady stepped out. She looked around and, spotting Sofia, headed towards her.

"Welcome to the Church by the Docks! I'm Elizabeth, but please call me Eliza." The lady held out her hand and Sofia took it in awe. " You must be Sofia. I can't wait to show you around!"

Sofia smiled at Eliza and nodded politely, "This place is amazing! Are you the owner?"

Eliza laughed and shook her head, "Unfortunately no. I just show people around. William Harris owns this place."

Sofia frowned. The name rang a bell but she couldn't figure out how she knew him. She shook it off and headed into the church behind Eliza.