Wildflowers; After the long wait

chapter 6

Tonight, was the night before their wedding and Dwayne was somewhat of a wreck, what if she changes her mind and doesnt show up. What if he loses her for good, his cognizance was weighing down on him.

"Ready son?" a gruff voice asked behind him jolting Dwayne out of his reverie.

Dwayne turned slowly and looked at his father framed in the doorway. Richard Harrison was as tall and broad-shouldered as his sons; he struck an imposing figure and was widely reputed as a trustworthy businessman. He was well respected by his employees and was held as a hard-driven man, there were crinkles around his eyes that bespoke of great patience and understanding; a wisdom only time and hard work could bring. The sharpness of his eyes  bespoke of a deep underlining sense of perception, he always got what he wanted but he was also mindful of others. He was somebody you could count on to be there when times got tough, someone you could look up to and relieve all your burdens on, someone you could trust unequivocally.

Dwayne's hands clenched painfully to his side and he looked out his office window unable to meet his father's eyes.

"You look troubled, what seems to be the problem?" His father stepped into his office, his tone was curious but it was demanding an answer.

Dwayne hesitated but thought better of it. This was his father; he couldn't hide anything from him. He needed to speak his mind or it would drive him crazy.

"I hurt her Dad and I don't think shes ever going to trust me again." He exhaled, feeling a weight lifted from his chest. It was someone elses turn to see him for the bastard he was. "I did something unforgivable and she hates me." 

"Sweet Alice? She doesn't have it in her to hate anyone." His father objected.

"Well she does me and she has every right to. I wouldn't be surprised if she doesn't show up today." 

"Ahh, I see the problem. Cold feet."  He said in an amused tone. Strolling over to his son. He placed a hand on Dwayne's shoulder forcing him to look up. His father's smiling eyes stared back at him, so full of pride for his son that Dwayne's own eyes watered.

"Dad I..."

"It's alright boy, we all get them." 

"I have to confess." he was hesitant but it was time to spill. 

Dwayne told his father everything that happened ten years ago and to say Richard Harrison stood stunned was an understatement. He stared at his eldest son in a different light and Dwayne held his breath afraid he had just lost his father's trust forever. Richard spoke after what seem like a very long pause. "I know you, you're gonna make things right son, I'm very disappointed but you seem to regret your action quite alot, I'm going to keep this from your mum, her health's not the best. Dwayne nodded,  "Now Alice. It's clear as day that girl loves you, she always has. Your mother tried to make me believe it was Dawn but I saw something different in her eyes when she looked at you from since you were kids,  You just have to be whatever she needs you to be. life isn't always black and white. Besides do you think that girl will be able to escape your mom's clutches." He chuckled at the idea.

Dwayne stared at his dad, mouth agape. He collected himself and ran a hand through his neatly combed hair, making a mess of it. He paused with a lost for words.'His father didn't hate him.' 

Richard reached for the loose tie around his son's neck and began to expertly loop the ends together tying it neatly. He patted his hand against Dwayne's chest and gave him a stern fatherly look. "Never lose faith in your love son." Then with a wink and a turn of his heel he exited the room. "The car is waiting downstairs," his voice called back.