The Big Mess

For the friends who become more

❤️

A tear sprang from the corner of Violet’s eye. It was a worthy expression of love and support for her close friends.

“I do,” Jenny said.

“And do you, Martin, take this woman…?”

Violet looked across the beach to the groom’s side of the wedding party, the setting sun streaking rays of brilliant orange and pink over a partly cloudy sky. Benjiro caught her gaze and flashed her his signature, mischievous grin. At the same moment, Violet felt her palms begin to sweat and her stomach flip. Her best friend looked every bit as beautiful as the groom or the scenery, as if this day could have been his.

“I do,” Martin replied.

The new couple kissed, the guests cheered, and Violet wondered if she, too, would find her happily ever after. Perhaps she had waited too long.

“Aren’t all the bridesmaids supposed to carry tissue?”

She’d lost sight of Benjiro as the crowd came together, as hugs were given, well wishes spoken.

“You’re right,” Violet sniffed. “I seem to have misplaced mine. All happy tears here, mind you.”

Almost true.

Benjiro grabbed her hand. “No time for tears.”

“Or anything else!” Martin added, bumping elbows with his best man. “I feel like dancing!”

Violet had never been to a wedding where the rules were so open. A live band had indeed begun to play. From vows, first kiss, to music—the whole affair had taken less than a quarter hour to jump into...