What I Want

Chapter 22: I Love You

"How are you feeling?" Evie asked her best friend as she zipped her into her wedding dress.

"Honestly.... terrified," Mal admitted, her hands shaking nervously.

"And why is that? Isn't today supposed to be one of the most exciting days in a person's life?"

"Yeah, but it is kind of scary too. I mean think about it. I'm actually getting married, committing myself to one man for the rest of my life, in front of thousands of people."

"But you love him don't you?"

"Of course. I wouldn't be marrying him if I didn't."

"Then that is all that matters. It isn't important that others are watching you. What matters here is that you and Ben are committing yourselves to each other out of love. That is what today is about."

"You're right. I should focus on what this day means for Ben and I and no one else. Thank you Evie."

"Of course. What are best friends for?"

"Also, thank you so much for this lovely dress. It is amazing," Mal sighed as she looked herself over in the mirror as Evie made the last few adjustments. The dress was of an ivory color and strapless, delicate violet ferns wrapping around her torso, complete with a light satin belt of the same color as the ferns. The bottom part of the dress consisted of it layering upon itself all the way down, each edge highlighted violet. The best part, all of it was hand made by her best friend, whom knew her better than most people. Evie knew exactly what kind of dress she'd want. This one was perfect.

"Still," Mal continued,"I can't thank you enough for all you have done for me. I really appreciate your support."

"You are welcome Mal. Now then, I think you are all set!" Evie chirped as she stepped back to admire her handiwork before looking back up and into Mal's glassy eyes, which were on the verge of tears.

"Don't cry," Evie smiled,"you'll ruin your makeup. We don't want to have to go through putting it on again do we?"

"No, I guess not," Mal sniffled, wiping away her tears,"I'm just feeling really emotional right now."

"And you should be. That's normal. Today is special and will change the rest of your life, so of course you're emotional. I'd be worried if you were a stone cold wall right now. And honestly, I'm so proud of you right now."

"Why?"

"Because the Mal I knew on the Isle wouldn't have even considered showing emotion. You used to be like solid rock, incapable of showing emotion. You existed, but you weren't 'there.' Now, you've opened yourself up and allowed yourself to feel things, and it has made you a better person. I'm proud of the person you've become."

Now Evie began to shed a few tears.

"I'm so proud of my best friend. She's come so far."

Both Evie and Mal embraced each other in a hug so tight not even light could pass between them. Mal laid her head on her best friend's shoulder, so thankful to have her here on this special day. Today wouldn't have been possible without Evie. Without her, Mal would have been an emotional wreck. Evie was her emotional rock right now since she didn't have Ben.

"Thank you, Evie," was the only words Mal could muster.

"You're welcome. Anything for my best friend."

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door.

"Who is it?" Evie called out, letting Mal go.

"It's Belle. May I see my soon to be daughter in law?"