The sun was setting over the Blair Estate, casting a warm glow through the windows. Patricia hadn’t seen Charlotte in ages, and she missed her so much she’d practically begged Anthony to bring her home for a visit. When they arrived, Patricia and Lavinia were instantly at Charlotte’s side, hovering and fussing over her. They kept asking if she was feeling alright and if Anthony was really taking good care of her.
Soon enough, the wedding checklist made an appearance. Lavinia handed Charlotte a thick booklet, asking if there was anything she wanted to add. Charlotte flipped through it, trying to look interested, but honestly, it was her first wedding and she had no clue what she needed. The only thing she really noticed was how outrageous some of the prices were.
“In a month, Lottie’s still not even three months along,” Lavinia said, pen in hand as she marked the list. “She’s got such a petite frame that she won’t be showing much, but we still need to have plenty of dresses ready. I’ve set aside twenty different gowns, and if that’s not enough, we can always add more. The designer’s on standby for the next six months.”
Twenty gowns? Charlotte’s eyes widened. She’d never worn anything so fancy in her life. If she had her way, she’d go for something simple and comfortable.
“I really don’t need that many. Two is more than enough,” Charlotte said softly. She didn’t want to hurt Lavinia’s feelings, though, so she kept her tone gentle.
“Two? That’s not nearly enough, sweetheart,” Lavinia replied, frowning.
“Let’s just do what Lottie wants,” Anthony said as he walked over with a glass of lemonade. He held it out for Charlotte. “Here, have a sip.”
Charlotte smiled and let him help her drink. They really did look made for each other, the way he doted on her. Patricia and Lavinia watched them, hearts full and happy. At last, someone had managed to get Anthony wrapped around their finger.
After a bit of back and forth, they finally agreed on five dresses. Anthony helped Charlotte pick her favorites from the booklet, making sure she was comfortable with every choice.
Lavinia wanted to keep discussing the rest of the wedding plans, but then she noticed how tired Charlotte looked and decided to let it go for now.
“We’re honestly okay with whatever you decide for the wedding,” Charlotte said with a polite smile. “Grandma, Lavinia, you can handle the details. I trust you.”
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