Instinctively, she sank down in her seat. “Shit. I think it’s them.”

Karen glanced left, then she indicated and pulled up in front of the church, where the last stragglers were milling about outside.

She cut the engine, then turned, gripping Jordan’s hand in hers. “Showtime. You ready?”

Jordan gave a definite nod that belied the butterflies in her stomach. “Let’s do it.” As she looked up, Delta and Taran were walking down the church path towards her. She had to ignore them and concentrate on what she had to do.

Jordan jumped out of the car, just as the Jaguar pulled up behind them. In her head, their wheels screeched. Warm June air caressed her face. Church bells rang. Across the street, a small boy kicked a football on a green with his mum. It was just a normal day for them. Not for Jordan. This was the most important day of her life.

The driver of the wedding car walked around the car and opened the passenger door.

Gloria stepped down first, a pensive look on her face.

Then the driver held out a hand and Abby climbed out, her elegant wedding dress embracing her with some style.

Jordan gulped.

Abby was beyond beautiful. Also about to marry someone else. Maybe she still would. It didn’t mean Jordan shouldn’t do this. She strode over to Abby, just as the photographer, Heidi, appeared beside her, directing Abby to pose in front of the car. Jordan recognised Heidi from previous weddings she’d been a part of.

“Abby,” Jordan said.

Abby turned, emitting an audible gasp as she saw her. “Jordan,” she began.

She could listen to Abby say her name all day long.

“Before you start having photos taken, can I say something?”

Abby gave her a confused look, before nodding. “Okay.” Her tone was quizzical. She turned to Heidi. “Can you give us two minutes?”

Heidi checked her watch. “We really need to get these shots done.”

“It wasn’t a question,” Abby replied, steel to her tone.

Heidi stepped back, nodding.

“Abby.” Delta appeared beside her. “You don’t have to do this.”

Abby’s eyes hardened. “Yes, I do.” She glared at her maid of honour. “This isn’t your decision, Delta.”

Jordan held her breath.

Delta held out her hand. “At least give me your flowers.”

Abby handed them over.

Now it really was show time.

Jordan took a deep breath, shoulders back, just as she’d practised. Only, being on this pavement with an audience close by was putting more pressure on her. She tried to keep her body still even though every inch of her was shaking. Could she get her words out?

She had to. There was no other choice.