Remember Your Worth | Jackson Avery

thirty-four

"We're all friends here. There's no bride or groom side. Just sit wherever you feel comfortable, okay?" April instructed, trying to hide her panic.

"Is everything okay?" Catherine asked.

"I can't find our bride and groom anywhere."

"We'll help." Mer offered.

While they looked, I helped myself to the wine, longing for it. JJ had been attached to me at the hip. Wherever I went, if he couldn't see me, he threw a fit. I was glad to have the time to myself, even though I missed them like crazy.

I checked my phone once again, seeing no message from my dad. Since he'd came to and started physical therapy, it was like I was a stranger.

Whenever I called or swung by the house, they didn't answer or pretended they weren't home. A tap on my shoulder brought me back to reality.

"I forgot to give you JJ's gift." Catherine said, handing me an envelope.

I opened it, taking out the band of hundreds. It was stacked neatly with a rubber band around it and a smiley face on the inside of the envelope.

"My son needs a thousand dollars, why?"

"Spoil him, buy him whatever he wants. I have one for Raegan, too, if you'd like."

Jackson came over, kissing her on the cheek then embracing me from behind.

"Your mother has given our son a thousand dollars just because.. did you know?"

"What?! Mom, he's an infant."

"So? He still likes nice things." She huffed then walked away.

"So, you find them?" Jackson asked, stopping Meredith.

"No, but I did find Jo's shoes in Alex's room, so I think maybe they snuck off..." Meredith replied.

"To have sex. Fair play. I mean, the pastor guy isn't even here yet, so..." Jackson shrugged.

"Is that something you're interested in?" I asked him once she walked away.

"Excuse me, could you circulate with the hors d'oeuvres, please?" The wedding planner told the waiter.

"She is relentless." Jackson commented, shaking his head.

"I didn't forget about that offer.. are you okay to do it?" He sincerely asked.

"Let me pull my dress up and check- yes, I'm fine, Jackson." I scoffed then laughed.

"You can pull your dress up, alright.." he bit his lip, looking me up and down.

The wedding planner grabbed the mic, tapping it to get everyone's attention.

"Um, folks? Folks, hello. Thank you so much for your patience. The wedding officiant should be here soon, harbor traffic allowing. In the meantime, please continue to enjoy the canapé and... this toast by this handsome fellow." She handed the mic to Andrew.