Falling for Love

by Addison M. Conley

  Jo turned down the volume. Jordan teared up. A lump formed in her throat and her voice cracked when she finally spoke. “Now, I can enjoy my wedding.”

  “You sure can.” Jo hugged her tightly.

  Robby hugged them both. “I’m so happy for you.”

  Relief and joy continued to wash over Jordan as the three cried tears of joy. Soon, her cell rang.

  “Hi, sweetie. Did you hear the news?”

  “Yes, I did. Jo had the radio on. What a month it’s been. I get to marry the love of my life, my best friend, and one of the kindest people in the world.”

  “I love you so much, sweetheart.”

  Her words were partially drowned out by yelling in the background. Emmy laughed. “As you can hear, everyone is ecstatic. Why don’t you come pick me up so we can celebrate?”

  Her mom’s voice burst over the phone line. “Jordan, get your butt home and pick up the woman you love and celebrate. Or I swear I’m going to drive down there and throw you in the car. Why on earth did you go to the restaurant today?”

  Jordan was wiping tears from her face with her hand, but there were too many. Although choked up, her face glowed. “I’ll be home in record time. Love you all.”

  She never imagined in her lifetime that she would be able to marry a woman she loved. The decision meant equal access to benefits for spouses in every state and territory. She felt the warmth of love all around her. She was blessed.

  Like interracial marriage in the past, there would be some rough spots for the country. The fight for civil rights legislation would continue. Protection from employment and housing discrimination had to be next. Adults might be free to marry nationwide, but there were still places where a person could be evicted or fired for being LGBTQ. Married on Sunday and fired on Monday.

  She thought about how far her family and hometown had come and hoped that more hearts would eventually open. For now, she savored the victory of love over hate.

  Chapter Thirty-four

  Jordan stretched her muscles. The light of day was poking through the sides of the blinds. She rolled over and caressed Emmy’s arm. It was going to be a hectic day.

  “Wake up, sleepyhead. You’re usually the first one up.” Jordan gently prodded her.

  “Umm, you wore me out last night. I want to lie here for a few minutes.”

  “I’ll fix us breakfast.” She laid kisses on Emmy’s cheeks before bouncing out of bed to greet the day. Today was their wedding day, June 28, and she felt like doing somersaults.

  Wrapped in her robe, Jordan floated on air and began singing the song “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon. The infectious joy soon had Emmy in the kitchen dancing and singing along. After a breakfast of scrambled eggs and fruit, they stood on the deck looking out at the mountain. Jordan was behind Emmy with her arms wrapped around her. They swayed back and forth.

  “Are you ready for all the hoopla today?” Jordan nuzzled Emmy’s ear.

  “Hoopla?”

  “Slang for all the excitement.”

  Emmy laughed. “It’s going to be tiring for sure, but I can’t wait to call you my wife. How do you feel?”

  “Like I want to go back to bed and make love to you all day.”

  “I’d love to hear that any other day, but your mum would kill us if we’re late.” She snuggled into Jordan and faked a pout. “Besides, the dresses are fabulous.”

  “Oh yes, the dresses that you, Mom, and Angie spent days, no weeks, going over half the East Coast to find.”

  Emmy playfully pinched her bottom. “You’ll be in awe as we take your breath away.”

  “I’m already in awe.”

  “I love you, sweetie. You’ve worked hard to stand up for your integrity and for us.”

  “You’re worth it, Em. And you will be in awe when you see me in my tux.”

  Jordan kissed her tenderly and ran her tongue along Emmy’s lips. Their tongues intertwined and the kiss intensified and consumed them. Jordan’s hands slipped down Emmy’s ass, pressing Emmy hard into her, and Jordan’s lips moved to her neck. Emmy gasped and groaned as Jordan was caught up in the moment kissing, nipping, and sucking.

  Emmy pushed her back. “If you give me a hickey, it will ruin the pictures, and the entire family will tease us throughout the evening.”

  “Let them.”

  “You’re forgetting—”

  Jordan drowned out her words with a fiery kiss on the lips while one of her hands moved to cup Emmy’s breast. The sounds of pleasure escaped from Emmy’s lips in tiny moans.

  Emmy broke off the kiss. “Oh, sweetie. What time is it?”

  Jordan ignored her question and kissed her passionately again.

  “Good morning! It’s time to get going. Where are you two?” Carter’s voice boomed.

  They quickly disengaged and straightened their robes.

  “There you are. Why aren’t you showered? We gotta go,” he said, bouncing on his toes.

  They tried to look casual, but Jordan could tell the moment that reality dawned on him. His face was the reddest she had ever seen.

  “Sorry,” he mumbled. “I thought you knew Angie changed the time I was supposed to pick you up.”

  Emmy tried to ease the awkward moment. “She did. I forgot to tell her. I’ll go first. Won’t be long.”

  Jordan nodded as Emmy walked away. The two siblings stood for a while then both broke out in laughter.

  “Emmy’s a wonderful person. I could not be happier for two people, well, except for Mom and Dave. Now, go on and get ready while I try to block out this memory before it scars me for life. After all, I’ve never done any such thing on the deck.” His eyes held a wicked gleam. “At least, not for several years since the kids were born.”

  He winked, and Jordan left him chuckling.

  ****

  Jo ripped off the plastic protecting the freshly pressed tux. “Let’s get you spruced up.”

  “Hey, Jo. There’s something I’ve wondered about.”

  “Yes?” She picked up Jordan’s shoes to polish them one last time, but Jordan laid a hand on top of hers to get her attention.

  “There were times you appeared to be the only one who understood me. That night at Lost Dog. The text. You knew I was falling in love with Emmy.”

  “Well, I’ve always been good with my gut feelings.”

  “Did you always know I was a lesbian?”

  “I suspected, but I didn’t know for sure until that night at Lost Dog. Women are better at figuring out subtle distinctions. Robby was your wing pilot in the business and a teddy bear of a friend but didn’t have a clue.” She put the shoes down and grasped Jordan’s shoulders. “And thank God, you woke up from the hurt inside. You are a terrific person, but every now and then, I could see a flicker of pain. I may not know everything you’ve been through since you are stubborn and don’t share feelings.”

  “Not to mention I’m your boss.”

  “Yes, but you’ve got to have friends. You’ve got to let some people in. And if you don’t then well, we will worm our way in because we care about you. That text I sent you at Lost Dog was to make you get off your ass. Remember one thing: love provides the spark but the fire was you. Accepting and loving yourself was what made the embers blaze and catch. But don’t forget, how you arrange the wood affects how long the fire will last and the amount of heat it gives off.”

  Jordan was stunned. “How did you become such a wise old kindred soul in a twenty-eight-year-old body?”

  “Thank you for the compliment. Think about it. So many people, no matter what their age, focus on the trivial crap. In the end, it only winds them up tighter. People need to learn to relax and live their lives. Emmy is good for you, and any fool can see how happy you are.”

  “I’ve always been amazed at your never-ending energy.”

  “The key is positive thinking. Can’t go wrong if you count your blessings.” She went back to polishing the shoes. “Now, come on, widen that smile and put on that tux because tod
ay Emmy becomes your wife.”

  “So when are you and Ted getting hitched?”

  Jo stopped and slowly turned. “I enjoy the play and Ted’s a good guy. We split around New Year’s. Still friends.” She shrugged. “Everything happens for a reason.”

  As Jo went back to fussing over the tux, a thought hit Jordan. “Jo?”

  “Hmm?”

  “Jo, look at me.” Jordan hesitated then said, “Was the woman at the courthouse more than your friend?”

  As Jo’s watch alarm chimed, she said, “Time’s running short.”

  “I’m sorry for being rude. I shouldn’t have assumed.”

  Jo fiddled with the watch. Her facial expression was mixed. “It’s okay. She’s moving away for a job. I cared more about us than she did. That’s the way it goes sometimes.”

  Jordan embraced Jo. “She’s crazy. You know that, right? Anybody would be lucky to have you.”

  A frisky expression slowly replaced the frown. “Don’t worry. I’m not giving up. I like the chase and variety.”

  Jordan laughed. “Fun and happiness do go hand in hand.”

  “Absolutely. Now get busy. Holler when you’re dressed, and I’ll come back in to make sure you’re all spiffy.”

  ****

  Emmy heard the long low whistle and turned to see Becca with her arm around Olivia.

  “What a dress, Em. Jordan’s eyes are going to pop out of her head.”

  “Yes, you’re simply glowing,” Olivia added.

  Emmy wrapped her arms around them the best she could then patted Olivia’s tummy. “You look splendid in your dress with that tiny baby bump.”

  “Thanks to you for talking some sense into Becca.” She warmly looked into her wife’s eyes.

  Becca’s happiness was clear as she kissed Olivia’s hand. “My arm might have been twisted but you are so cute, and you’re going to be a fabulous mother.”

  “We are going to be fabulous mothers.”

  Emmy admired their warm embrace and silently chuckled at Becca’s change of heart.

  As they departed, she gave Becca a warning. “No revealing the details of my dress. It’s bad luck.”

  “I wouldn’t dare risk your wrath. See you in a few.”

  ****

  It was a gorgeous day, partly cloudy with small puffy clouds in the bright blue sky. The temperature was near seventy-five degrees. There was no hint of rain, and the breeze was gentle and refreshing. The chairs were arranged with a small pedestal holding fragrant flowers at the end of every other row.

  As Reverend Anderson faced the guests, Dave was to the left with his best friend and Aunt Elizabeth. Jordan stood on the right with Robby and Becca. Both Dave and Jordan wore light gray tuxedos with teal vests, bow ties, and accent pocket squares. Dave winked at Jordan as they stood awaiting the arrival of the brides.

  Once the idea of a double wedding took root, there was no turning back. And Angie, Emmy, and Gwyneth were unstoppable. The grandeur of the event grew with each passing day. Jordan never dreamed such an enormous affair could come together in such a short amount of time. Now here they were in front of 260 guests. Yet all that mattered was Emmy would legally be her wife within the hour.

  The processional began with Canon in D, Pachelbel, played on classical guitar by a friend of Emmy’s. Looking down the aisle, she was stunned by the beauty of Emmy and her mother. There was no doubt, they did indeed take everyone’s breath away.

  Gwyneth wore an A-line ivory silk wedding gown adorned with glimmering metallic lace appliqués, and Emmy wore a chiffon sheath dress with scoop neckline and sparkling crystals embroidered at the waist and along the shoulders. Both had their hair up with flowers. Jordan was rocked to the core with their beauty and grace.

  What truly made Jordan’s chest burst with love was their grinning escort. Poppa Lange had been over the moon with Grammy’s idea of escorting both women. After his revelation about his brother, he’d had several conversations with Jordan and they had grown extremely close. She thought the actions were just as cathartic for Poppa as they were for her.

  When each bride stood next to her chosen companion, it was time for the seriousness. Reverend Anderson began in a loud, rich voice. “Friends and family, we are gathered here today to witness and celebrate the union of David and Gwyneth and the union of Jordan and Emmy. They stand here in front of you and in the presence of God himself seeking the gift of being united in marriage. A ceremony that serves to comfort the sorrows of life and to magnify life’s joys by joining their hearts and securing strength in the power of the love, faith, and devotion they show to one another. Let us first begin with David and Gwyneth. Will you please turn and face one another, join hands, and recite your vows.”

  Jordan played with the collar and her bow tie, knowing they would be next. She had never been this nervous in her life, but she wasn’t going to let it spoil the day. Lost in her thoughts and trying to calm herself, she lost track of the ceremony until Reverend Anderson announced, “David and Gwyneth, I now pronounce you husband and wife in marriage. You may seal the union with a kiss.”

  Jordan’s heartbeat raced. When the crowd settled down, Reverend Anderson caught Jordan’s eye and nodded. “Now Jordan and Emmy. Will you please turn and face one another, join hands, and recite your vows.”

  Jordan swallowed. She could feel the sweat trickle under her arms and roll down her back. Her head was light, but she was determined. When she faced the stunning woman who had captured her soul, Jordan’s worry melted away. Although her hands were slightly shaking, Jordan’s voice didn’t falter.

  “Emmy. You are my companion, my best friend, and the love of my life. I promise to respect and cherish you. You have my hand, my heart, and my love forever as we join together. I will be at your side and support you through whatever sorrow, joy, or adventure comes our way. I love you.” Emmy’s smile and glistening eyes told Jordan she had done well.

  “Jordan. I look forward to us walking hand in hand wherever this journey leads us. You have made me so happy. I pledge my love, devotion, and faithfulness to you. I will honor and respect you. With my whole heart, I promise to love you, Always and forever.”

  Reverend Anderson smiled broadly. “Now, the rings please.”

  Jordan slid the platinum diamond-encrusted band onto Emmy’s finger. “With this ring, I thee wed. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, amen.” Emmy beamed as she repeated the words.

  “Jordan and Emmy, I now pronounce you wives in marriage. You may seal the union with a kiss.”

  This was another moment that had Jordan nervous. She leaned in, but Emmy took charge, grabbed her by the collar, and laid one on her long and deep. Everyone erupted, applauding and whistling.

  After the ruckus died down, the reverend announced, “Couples, please face your family and loved ones. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the new couples as they begin their journey in blessed union.”

  No, it was not ordinary clapping at this point. This was West Virginia. They were hooting and hollering like at a championship football game.

  Emmy shouted in Jordan’s ear, “My Lord, good thing no one passed out noisemakers.”

  They stood several minutes at the makeshift altar waiting for the lively guests to calm. Finally, the guitarist was able to play the recessional song “Close to You” by the Carpenters.

  “Good thing he used an amplifier,” Jordan said.

  Emmy’s eyes sparkled. “Ready to escort me down the aisle, my charming wife?”

  Wife—hearing the word from Emmy gripped Jordan’s heart in a joyous way. She motioned for Dave to lead the way. As they stepped down, Jordan looked over at the first couple of rows with all her relatives. She saw Grammy, Betty Jean, Aunt Elizabeth, and Angie and Carter seated together. The kids were jumping up and down. She was bewildered why Carter had insisted on Robby taking his place at the altar. It was a good thing they rented a tux for Robby at the last minute. She had no idea what had changed Carter’s plans unt
il she saw why. Her heart ceased to beat for a split second and air caught in her throat. Anne and her two oldest children were next to Carter and Angie. Anne gave a small smile, nodded, and mouthed congratulations. Jordan could hardly believe her eyes. Anne was a conservative, but here she was.

  As the procession began, people waved and smiled, almost drowning out the guitarist. Some reached out to pat them on the back. Some gave thumbs up and winked. It was surreal and full of love.

  After surviving the rowdy well-wishers, they gathered for photographs.

  “What’s going on with Anne and Gerry?” she blurted out a little too loudly to her mother.

  “Anne and I had a good long talk. She wanted to attend. I thought it was best for her and the children to sit with Carter and Angie so she would be comfortable. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you, but we were all worried that you would have a panic attack. She is here to wish us all happiness.”

  Jordan lowered her voice. “And Gerry?”

  Gwyneth’s smile faded, and she gave a heavy sigh and leaned over so as not to be overheard. “As I mentioned, he wasn’t invited, and he’s not likely to be around anytime soon. He is not welcome if he insists on hateful language. In fact, he and Anne are separated. They don’t believe in divorce, but she’s staying at her parents’ house with the children and calling it a break.”

  Jordan’s mouth popped open and hung for several seconds. “Does he know she came to the wedding?”

  “She said he only huffed a bit, but they did have a big fight once he realized Gerry Jr. and Margaret were accompanying her. They wanted to come, and in fact, Gerry Jr. stood up to his dad when he was yelling at Anne.”

  Jordan’s eyes bulged. “Holy cow.”

  A few tears arose in her mom’s eyes. “I also got to talk with the other children over the phone for a bit, but apparently Gerry doesn’t want them around me. Anne and I are planning a get-together after the honeymoon. After another screaming match, Anne took out a restraining order. I don’t know the details, but apparently, a psychologist wrote a letter saying it would be best. Maybe Anne will tell me more later. Maybe there was something I should have done.”