Chapter 29

It was late afternoon when we had the first rehearsal. It was really to set the order in which we would walk in and for us to get to know the church. It wasn’t just a church. It was a cathedral. It was grand and fancy. Even my church at home had nothing on this place.

I slipped up to Angela and whispered, “Ange, it’s grand. Our sanctuary is really neat with its chandelier but I think they could take lessons in grand from this place.”

Roger and Jam joined us. Jam said, “It’s going to take a while to walk down this aisle.”

I nodded and asked, “Ange, who will walk you down the aisle?”

“Captain Maes will do that. Berthold will be in full dress uniform.”

I smiled. “He will cut a dashing figure.”

I thought and then grinned. “If he comes to Georgia for my wedding as I hope, I may have to introduce him to Mo. I think she might be ready for a serious guy. If not, she’ll wear him out.”

Angela grinned. “True. One way or another, that meeting should be memorable.”

I added, “For someone.”

We practiced and then went for lunch. The same people were there and it was good to see those with who we had made friends before. After lunch, Angela, Anna, and I went for final fittings. I wasn’t good at that but endured it. I also had to listen to my two friends both being called, “Your Highness,” and me being called, “Your Grace.”

We survived the fittings and walked back to my sitting room where the guys were waiting. We sat around talking while we waited for supper. It would be informal which meant I could wear slacks. Anna and Angela were both wearing dresses. I felt comfortable in my slacks and blouse. I could relax and not worry about my legs or someone trying to look up my skirt! I don’t think Anna ever thought about that because her legs were always lady-like. As a teacher, Angela was stared at enough to know how to sit and move automatically. She and I both moved with a feline grace that Anna didn’t have. I thought it was our martial arts training though wasn’t sure.

I had learned that men’s eyes watched me. I noticed that one set of those eyes were Jam’s. I liked the look in his eyes as he looked at me. He noticed the looks I got. I had the feeling that as long as they stayed on the safe side of lust, all would be fine. If someone crossed the line, Jam or I would have a physical confrontation with the owner of those eyes. I had always been proud of my looks. When you’re tall and have a good figure, people look even if you don’t dress provocatively.

Captain Maes came to escort us to dinner. Holding Jam’s hand, I walked beside him. I asked, “Captain, are you coming to Georgia for my wedding?”

“Yes, I am. The King has asked me to lead his guard contingent out of country. I am looking forward to seeing your part of the country. I will fly commercial early to prepare and introduce myself to the local police.”

“Good, Jam and I will expect you to call and have dinner with us.”

“Your Graces will be busy at that time.”

“We can find time for you, Captain.” Jam looked over and nodded.

“I have a friend who I want you to meet. She will appreciate you.”

We were at the door to the dining room. Captain Maes opened and held the door while all six of us went inside. We were being seated as King Marcus walked inside. He took a seat next to mine. Roger was seated to the King’s right. Jam was sitting next to me. We had never released each other’s hands.

Our meal was great as usual. The chefs at the castle always had excellent food served in an appetizing manner. We ate and talked. It was very pleasant. As we were finishing our desserts, King Marcus said, “Jar, would you and Jam join me for a few moments to talk privately?”

“Of course, Sire. We are always glad to talk with you.”

After dinner, we all dispersed to various areas. The King waved us into a room in his personal section of the palace. We were all seated.

“I just wanted to confirm to you that it will be my pleasure to walk you down the aisle, Jar. I am touched that you would ask me to do that. I’m sure in your home area, there are many older men who would be proud to have that honor. Most all of Landers’ men would also be proud to have that honor.” He smiled. “I know it’s not a big thing in the wedding but I appreciate your thoughtfulness. I understand Angela is having Berthold walk her down to Roger. That’s good. Bert has always been a good, loyal man.”

I chuckled. “That may be and I like him, too. However, I don’t see myself calling him, ‘Bert,’ any time soon.”

The King smiled. “Yes, dear. I realize that he might be intimidating to some.” He smiled more. “He is rather stern.”

“He’s always so proper. I’ll bend him to my will soon enough though.”

“I’m sure you will. In some ways, I’m glad you don’t live here full-time. You would totally disrupt discipline.”

Jam grinned. “But it’s so much fun to be around her, Sire.” I blushed. We left shortly thereafter with me giving him a hug and kiss. Jam and I walked the long hall back to the sitting room. Once there, we watched a little bit of TV with the others. After some kissing of Jam, I left for my bed where I slept quietly.

In the morning, I rose and cleaned up. Going out of my bedroom, I found Jam waiting with fresh coffee for me. I sat down next to him and kissed him. Then, I reached across his body to get the coffee cup that was waiting. I brushed his body with mine as I did quite intentionally. Jam grinned, “I may have to bring your coffee more often to get all of that welcoming.”

“I rather thought you would like that.”

He smiled, “My fiancee can be a dirty girl when no one else is looking.”

“That’s my plan. I want to tease and then please you at every opportunity I have.”

He smiled. “Works for me.”

We sat close enjoying being next to each other. Over the next ten or so minutes, the others came out to the sitting area. After Mason and Angela had come in, we headed for the dining room for breakfast. We met Anna and Roger on our way.