The Bridesmaid's Hero

by Narelle Atkins

  She’d cleared her schedule today, glad to take a break from the busy restaurant and rest her leg. It was healing well and had survived the long hours on her feet.

  Her phone rang. Harry. “Where are you?”

  “I’ve just arrived. Are you inside?”

  “Yes, I’ll meet you at the entrance.”

  “Okay, see you soon.”

  She rushed toward the main doors, her pulse picking up speed. Harry had occupied her thoughts since she’d returned to Canberra last week.

  He strode through the two sets of wood-framed glass sliding doors, his hair wind-blown and sunglasses perched on his head.

  She curved her lips into a welcoming smile. “Harry.”

  “Serena.” His eyes sparkled, and he embraced her in a warm hug.

  She held him close, inhaling his familiar scent. How could she let him go?

  He stepped back, his hands resting on her shoulders. “How’s your leg?”

  “It’s much better. Thanks for driving here to see me.”

  “A pleasure.”

  “Did you have a good trip?”

  “Yeah, it’s an easy drive but I could do with a double shot latte.”

  “Sounds good. We can sit at a table near the windows.”

  “That works for me.” He walked with her to the line at the café. “Would you like something to eat?”

  “No, I’m fine, thanks. Just a coffee.”

  “Too easy.” He placed their order, collected the plastic pager, and chose a table near the floor-to-ceiling windows.

  She sat opposite the windows, the panoramic view of the Canberra region and Lake Burley Griffin snatching her attention. Black Mountain Tower and the flagpole on top of Parliament House stood out among the rolling hills. The setting reminded her of their Snowy Mountains date, and their first kiss at the lookout.

  He leaned back in his seat, a smile on his lips. “I love the view.”

  “It’s stunning.” She clasped her hands together in her lap, determined to hold her emotions in check and wait for his decision. She was ready to talk, and she prayed they could reach a compromise.

  “What time are you starting work?”

  “I’m not. I took the day off.”

  He grinned. “Does this mean you can spend the whole day with me?”

  “Yes, assuming you want to hang out with me that long.”

  “I do. But I have an appointment at two.”

  She lifted a brow. “Will it take long?”

  “I’m not sure. It’s a job interview.”

  Her mouth gaped. “You’re thinking about moving here.”

  “It’s an option.” The beeper sounded and he stood. “I’ll be back in a minute.”

  She stared out the windows, the tranquil scenery at odds with her chaotic thoughts. Had he made his decision? Would he regret turning down his dream job?

  Harry placed their latte mugs on the table. “I’m not sure if the job I’m applying for today will be suitable.”

  “How come?” She stirred a sachet of sugar into the frothy milk.

  “It’s a six-month fixed contract. I’m not sure if there’s potential for ongoing work.”

  “Okay.” She squared her shoulders, bracing herself for his response. “What about the other job?”

  He sipped his latte. “I’m declining their offer.”

  A flicker of hope sparked in her heart. “Isn’t it your dream job?”

  “There are other things that are more important.”

  “But you don’t have another job lined up. What will you do next year?”

  “I can stay in Snowgum Creek and complete my course. My mom is supportive, and I can continue living with her.”

  She sat back in her seat, cradling her latte between her hands. “I’m not certain you’re doing the right thing.”

  “What? I thought you’d be happy that I’m not moving to Victoria.”

  “I understand your ambition to build a career. It’s not an easy road.”

  “You’ve done well.”

  “I’ve made sacrifices along the way to get where I am, including sacrifices in my personal life.”

  “Which is why I can’t expect you to consider moving to a small country town where you’d have zero career prospects.”

  She tipped her head to the side, meeting his gaze. “I’m worried you’ll regret your decision if you say no. A university scholarship is worth a lot of money. Do you want to let that opportunity pass?”

  “You’ve been successful without going to university.”

  “I don’t need a degree to be a chef. One reason my apartment has sentimental value is my parents gave me the money to put down a large deposit.”

  His eyes widened. “That’s a big help.”

  She nodded. “They paid for my sisters’ university education, and gave me the cash equivalent. I’d struggle to afford my mortgage if they hadn’t helped.”

  “Your parents are generous.” He pushed his empty mug to the side, his expression shuttered. “Why don’t we check out the bonsai trees? Have you seen them?”

  “Sure. I haven’t visited in a while.” She drank the remains of her latte, the smooth flavor soothing a small part of her frustration. She’d exposed a raw nerve, and Harry had been quick to change the subject.

  Her father’s words echoed in her mind. She needed to engage Harry in a discussion of the tough issues, including money, to determine if they had a future.

  ***

  Harry stood beside Serena, admiring the display in the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection. The miniature trees, including natives from Australia, Japan, and China, were positioned on rustic wooden tables. The stone walls in the room provided a nice backdrop for photos.

  Serena snapped a few photos on her phone, appearing to be fascinated by the eclectic collection. “They’re so cute.”

  “Yes.” Just like her. He trailed behind, glad he’d suggested they look at the display. Sunlight streamed in through the open roof, a covering of square wire mesh attached to the wooden crossbeams offering protection for the plants.

  Hot weather was predicted, and he might suggest they catch a movie this afternoon after his interview. An air-conditioned mall had benefits, and they could come back here on a cooler day to tour the extensive Arboretum grounds.

  First, he had a question to ask Serena. An important question. A life-changing question.

  She collected a few pamphlets and walked outdoors with him. A high awning from the roof shaded a small section of the polished wooden deck.

  He leaned on the railing in the shade, taking in the picturesque view of Canberra to the east. The idea of living in Canberra held appeal, especially if Serena was a part of his life.

  She turned to him, a serious expression dominating her pretty face. “Harry, there’s something I need to say.”

  “Okay.”

  “I’m in a comfortable financial position, and I can support myself. It doesn’t matter if you can’t find a high-paid job.”

  He shook his head. “It matters to me. I don’t have a lot of money, and I’ll need to use most of my savings to pay for my education.”

  “That’s fine. The money issue isn’t important.”

  “A man needs the financial resources to take care of his family.” He dragged his fingers through his hair. “My father failed to provide for our family and it was awful. My mom has had a hard life, especially since she has been on her own.”

  Her eyes softened. “I’m sorry that happened to you and your family.”

  “We survived.”

  “Money doesn’t make you a better person. I’ve met plenty of people with money who are obnoxious. You couldn’t pay me to spend time in their company.”

  “Point taken.”

  “But you never answered my original question. In five years’ time, are you going to look back on our conversation today and regret your decision?”

  He shook his head and reached for her hand, lacing his fingers through hers. “Serena, I
don’t want to lose you. You’re more important than a job.”

  “Are you sure?”

  He inhaled a deep breath. It was now or never, time to open his heart and take a risk. “I love you, and I hope you’ve grown to care for me.”

  She nodded, her eyes shining. “I love you, and I wish our lives weren’t so complicated.”

  “They don’t have to be complicated.”

  “What do you mean?”

  He reached into his pocket, retrieving a small blue velvet jewelry case.

  She gasped. “Harry.”

  He dropped down on one knee, the decking smooth against his skin. “Serena, you’ve captured my heart from the first day we met.”

  “Everything went wrong at my sister’s crazy wedding.”

  He shook his head. “A bunch of things went right that day. Meeting you was an amazing gift, and totally unexpected.”

  “I’m glad we met when we did.”

  “When I carried you to the car, I knew I was in trouble. As much as I’ve tried to convince myself that we couldn’t have a future, I can’t deny the depth of my feelings.”

  She squeezed his hand, her smile lighting up her face.

  He opened the jewelry case, highlighting the brilliant solitaire diamond ring nestled inside. “Serena, I love you and I want to grow old with you. Will you marry me?”

  Her eyes glistened, their hazel depths radiating her love. “Yes, Harry. Yes!”

  He slipped the ring on her finger, the band a little loose.

  “Wow.” Her voice dropped to a whisper. “It’s beautiful.”

  Harry stood and tipped up her chin with his thumb. “Not as beautiful as you.” He lowered his head, his lips caressing hers in a gentle kiss.

  ***

  Serena stood in the circle of Harry’s arms, her left hand resting on his chest. “When did you buy my ring?”

  “Yesterday, in Sunny Ridge. I hope you like my choice.”

  She nodded. “I love it, and I can’t wait to get married.”

  “I need to find a job in Canberra. Weddings are expensive.”

  “Did you know our mothers are already planning our wedding?”

  He rolled his eyes. “Typical. We may have to fight for the wedding we want.”

  “If we marry in Snowgum Creek, it should work out okay. My father gave me the inside scoop on their plans.”

  Harry met her gaze, his love shining in his eyes. “Do you want a Snowgum Creek wedding?”

  “Yes. Our family and friends can stay at the B&B.”

  “True.”

  She caressed his cheek, her fingertips exploring his strong jaw line. “What about your horses? Will you miss having them close by when you move to the city?”

  He shook his head. “I’m hoping to land a job working with horses.”

  “A great idea.”

  His hands remained locked around her waist. “I’m not going to have time to study and take care of a horse. I’d rather spend my spare time with my wife.”

  She grinned. “I like the sound of that, and I’ll be praying the right job opportunity in Canberra comes along at the right time.”

  “Me, too. We can wait on His perfect timing.”

  Serena hugged him close, tucking her head under his chin. She belonged in his arms, and couldn’t wait for their wedding.

  Chapter Ten

  Nine months later

  Serena smiled for the camera, her arm looped around her husband’s waist. Harry wore an elegant suit, his single-breasted jacket unbuttoned in his typical casual style.

  He leaned in closer and whispered in her ear. “Love you.”

  “Love you more.” She stood on tip toes and planted a kiss on his lips, her flat-heeled bridal shoes sinking into the soft grass in her mother’s rose garden.

  He raised his head. “I’m so proud to be your husband. Are you enjoying our wedding?”

  “Absolutely. I’m glad we chose a spring wedding.”

  His fingertips trailed along her cheek. “We have three weeks together. Uninterrupted time. Just the two of us.”

  Her pulse accelerated, her face warm from his gentle caress. “A week at the Bali beach resort will be divine.”

  “The timing is perfect. I can prepare for my new job when we return.”

  Her mom’s flowers were in full bloom, their sweet fragrance wafting in the light mountain breeze. She lifted the floor-length cream satin skirt of her bridal gown off the grass, concerned the hem would acquire stains. The long train was secured off the ground by delicate buttons at the back of her waist.

  Their photographer issued new instructions and she turned to face her husband, staring up into his beautiful blue eyes. A trellis of climbing roses created a photographic backdrop to their left. The sky above was clear, the weather perfect for an outdoor afternoon wedding reception.

  His eyes softened, his hands resting on her waist. “We need to move my gear from Snowgum Creek to your apartment. When is our bed arriving?”

  “Monday. Jane’s taking care of the delivery.” Her chief bridesmaid had insisted on making sure everything was organized for their return from Bali.

  “Jane is amazing. You have great friends in Canberra.”

  “They’ll soon become your friends, and you’ll get to know more people from church.”

  “It’s going to be different, living in the city.”

  “Are you worried you won’t like it?”

  He shook his head. “I know I’ll like my new life because I’ll be with you.”

  She nodded. “The last nine months apart haven’t been fun.” They had seen each other a couple of times each month, usually when Serena returned to Snowgum Creek. She’d spent time with their mothers, planning all the details for their Snowgum Creek wedding.

  “The time apart makes our wedding day all the more special. It’s the start of our new life together.”

  “I can’t wait for Gina to drive us to Sydney tomorrow morning.”

  He grinned. “This time tomorrow we’ll be at the airport.”

  “I hope we can have an early night tonight.”

  “Our wedding dinner starts at six. Most of the formalities and speeches are happening this afternoon, while everyone is still here.”

  “That was a good idea from our mothers. We’ll have more time to talk with our guests during dinner.”

  “Your father has assured me dessert will be served by eight-thirty. We have the best room in the B&B tonight.”

  “The suite is lovely. Our chef friends are in the kitchen now, creating their signature dishes.”

  “The food will be fabulous, like everything else about today.”

  The photographer requested they walk the short distance to the tulip gardens. Their bridal party was gathered on the veranda, enjoying the refreshments and waiting for their cue to join the photography session.

  Harry reached into a garden bed and picked two pure white daffodils. He handed her a long-stemmed daffodil. “For my bride.”

  “It’s beautiful.” She stroked an unblemished petal, smooth under her fingertip.

  “Just like you.” He stole a kiss, his lips promising more kisses later.

  The photographer called and she turned around. Finn flew in and landed near her feet.

  “Hey Finn, you haven’t forgotten to visit me.”

  Finn puffed out his black and white feathers, his amber eyes inquisitive.

  Harry laughed. “You feed him, so he’s not likely to forget you.”

  “True, and I’m sorry Finn. I don’t have any seed with me today.”

  “He’ll clean up the crumbs and leftovers from afternoon tea.”

  “That’s for sure.” Serena turned and faced the camera, following the photographer’s direction to stand on the other side of Harry.

  The magpie hopped a short distance away and stood on one leg, breaking out in song.

  Harry tucked his arm around her waist. “He’s singing our wedding song.”

  “Yes, and it’s a beautiful song
.” Serena leaned in closer, content to be in the arms of the man she loved. God had blessed them today, and she looked forward to spending the rest of her life with Harry.

  About Narelle Atkins

  A fun loving Aussie girl at heart, Narelle Atkins was born and raised on the beautiful northern beaches in Sydney, Australia. She has settled in Canberra with her husband and children. A lifelong romance reader, she found the perfect genre to write when she discovered inspirational romance. Narelle's contemporary stories of faith and romance are set in Australia.

  To find out more visit her website.

  Narelle also invites you to join her email list.

  A Note from Narelle

  Thank you for reading The Bridesmaid’s Hero. I hope you enjoyed Harry and Serena’s romance story.

  The Bridesmaid’s Hero is Book 1.5 in my Snowgum Creek series. It’s a standalone novella and follows on chronologically from Falling for the Farmer. Jack, my hero in Falling for the Farmer, is a minor character in the novella.

  Please consider writing a review and sharing your thoughts on my book with other readers. I appreciate every review I receive for my stories. Reader reviews can help other readers find books that they’ll enjoy reading.

  Other Titles by Narelle Atkins

  Snowgum Creek Series

  Book 1 – Falling for the Farmer

  Book 2 – The Nurse’s Perfect Match

  Book 3 – The Doctor’s Return

  Sydney Series

  Book 1 - Her Tycoon Hero

  Book 2 – Winning Over the Heiress

  Book 3 - Seaside Proposal

  Sapphire Bay

  His Perfect Catch (novella and spin off story from Seaside Proposal)