Consequences(144)

John offered Claire his arm, kissed her cheek, and began to take her down the stairs. Before they reached the first step he stopped, leaned near, and whispered, “Claire, we love you. We only want you to be happy. Tell me he’s good to you and that he makes you happy.”

With tears in her eyes, she said, “John, he can be”—she remembered her mask—“he does.”

John tried to smile and patted her hand. They descended the stairs and made their way to the platform. After another song by the string quartet and a verse from the minister—the minister asked, “Who gives this woman to be wed?”

John spoke loud and clear, “With great love and respect, her sister and I agree to share this magnificent woman.” He kissed Claire’s cheek and gently lifted her hand from his arm and placed it in Tony’s hand.

Shit, was the only word that came to Claire’s mind. She looked up at Tony. He was looking at her, but his face didn’t register John’s words—apparently, he had a mask too. Claire was certain if Tony were a cartoon character there would be smoke coming from his ears. She mouthed, I’m sorry. He squeezed her hand gently and they both smiled. The minister continued speaking.

They all four rode together in the limousine to Courtney and Brent’s house. Claire explained to Emily that in the late morning there would be a masseuse, manicure technician, cosmetologist, and hair stylist all coming to do miracles on them. Catherine and Courtney would be in Claire’s suite to assist them both with their dresses.

Tony upheld appearances much more proficiently than John. He remained polite and friendly to both Emily and John and was loving and attentive to Claire. Once they reached the Simmons’ house, Tony was the totally devoted bridegroom and the man of the hour. John was friendly—but quiet. His unhappiness made Claire uneasy, and she privately begged Emily to do something. “Don’t let him ruin my special day.”

Emily promised to try.

Courtney provided a wonderfully delicious Italian dinner with antipasto salad, bread and oil, red wine and pasta. The festive mood and atmosphere filled Claire with hope and joy. Tim and Sue were chatting with Tony, as Claire walked up and overheard them discuss Tim’s role during Claire and Tony’s honeymoon. At first, she stood politely by Tony, but when they paused, Claire tried to be sneaky. “Now, Tim, tell me again how long you’ll need to be at the helm?”

Tony laughed and pulled her close. “Good try.” Then addressing Tim, he continued, “You’re one of the few privileged individuals to know where we’ll be—in case of an emergency. Most people—including my beautiful new wife—do not know our destination. So, don’t let her try to worm it out of you”—he smiled—“Or you, Sue, if Tim has shared.”

“Oh, you’re so mean”—Claire feigned a pout—“How will I know what to pack?”

“Another ‘A’ for effort, Catherine has taken care of it for you.” Claire smiled at the Bronsons. They smiled and put their fingers to their lips. They wouldn’t spoil Tony’s surprise.

The dinner party began to wind down about 10:30 PM, at which time the gentlemen announced it was time to celebrate Tony’s last night of freedom. They headed to the lower level for cognac, cigars, and some serious poker. Brent announced Tony should be prepared to lose more than his freedom—he’d be losing some serious money during their tournament. “Ladies do not wait up.”

It was MaryAnn who replied, “Don’t worry about us. We’re doing our own celebrating back at Claire’s house. My driver’s ready and Catherine has martinis waiting at the indoor pool and hot tub.”