“I remember going to my first wedding, even though I try to block it out. I was so scared in the wedding car. It was pouring with rain. Like the weather knew. I had a nagging feeling I shouldn’t do it, but I didn’t listen.” She waved a hand at Abby. “Look at you. You’re gorgeous, your dress is perfect, just like you, but I’m not sure this is ever going to be the happiest day of your life. I certainly don’t want it to go down as one of the worst. Right now, I’m scared it will.”

Abby couldn’t believe what she was hearing.

“I saw the way you were looking at Jordan on the hen weekend. I saw the way she was looking at you. I don’t know if anything went on. That’s between you two. I also know she wasn’t there this morning, and she conveniently isn’t coming to your wedding. Are those two things connected?”

Abby took a deep breath and turned to her mum. She couldn’t lie.

She gave her a nod, and covered her mouth. She wasn’t going to cry. It would ruin her make-up.

“I’ve stepped back and let this play out, but I can’t sit back and watch you make the worst mistake of your life. And believe me, this is nothing to do with Marcus. I love Marcus. Everybody loves Marcus. But that’s not a reason to marry him. You have to follow your heart, Abby. Always follow your heart. I don’t know whether or not you love Jordan. Or whether what’s between you could become something else. Only you know that.

“But this is about you and Marcus. If you don’t love him, don’t marry him. Whatever you decide, you have my full support.” Gloria paused. “Does he suspect anything at all?”

Abby’s chest heaved. “I don’t think so.”

Gloria let a few moments go by. “Did something happen between you?”

Abby’s breathing quickened, then she nodded. “Yes.” It came out in a whisper. Underlined with shame and longing.

“Could it be something more?”

Abby sighed. “I don’t know. Yes. Maybe. If she’ll have anything to do with me after I treated her so badly.” If she could turn back time, Abby would. Did she have the guts to make a change now, though?

“Just say the word, Abby.” Mum took her hand again. “Today can be whatever you want it to be. The start of a new life. Whether that’s being married to Marcus or not. Your dad and I love you, and will stand by you whatever you decide.”

Chapter 30

“I still can’t quite believe we’re doing this. It’s like we’re in a Richard Curtis movie. Or a revival of Carry On Wedding. Was that even a film?”