After the dress fitting, the girls and I decide to make the most of the day by indulging in some much-needed girl time. With our dresses sorted and the wedding preparations well underway, we set out to explore the charming streets of New Haven, eager to soak up the sights and sounds of the bustling city.
As we wander through the quaint shops and cafés that line the cobblestone streets, laughter, and conversation flow freely, the air alive with the infectious energy of our shared camaraderie. With each step, we grow closer, our bond strengthened by the shared memories and experiences that have brought us together.
"So, Liv," Emma begins, breaking the comfortable silence that has settled over us as we browse through a vintage clothing store. "Spill the beans. What's the deal with you and Andy?"
“What do you mean?” I respond.
“Why don’t the two of you get together? You’re the only ones single and from what Emma mentioned, you both don’t have dates to the wedding.” Abby jumps in.
“True, I think Andy’s goofy ass has always liked you. Give him a shot.” Emma says.
I chuckle nervously, trying to brush off their comments with a nonchalant wave of my hand. "Oh, come on, guys. Andy and I are just friends. Besides, you know how complicated things can get when you mix friendship with romance."
Emma raises an eyebrow sceptically, her gaze piercing through my feeble attempt at deflection. "Hmm, 'just friends,' huh? That's what they all say."
Abby nods in agreement, her expression thoughtful. "I don't know, Liv. It seems like there's something more between you two. I mean, the way he looks at you...whenever the both you are around."
I feel a blush creeping up my cheeks at the mention of Andy's gaze, the memory of his intense blue eyes sending a shiver down my spine. "It's nothing, really," I insist, my voice sounding unconvincing even to my own ears.
Emma smirks knowingly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Uh-huh, sure it is. And I suppose those butterflies in your stomach are just a coincidence?"
I roll my eyes, feeling a mix of frustration and amusement bubbling up inside me. "You guys are impossible," I groan, attempting to steer the conversation in a different direction. "Let's talk about something else, shall we?"
But despite my best efforts to change the subject, the topic of Andy continues to linger in the air like a stubborn ghost, refusing to be ignored. With each passing moment, the pressure mounts, the weight of their scrutiny bearing down on me like a heavy burden.
"You know," Abby says suddenly, her voice soft with sincerity, "sometimes the best relationships come from unexpected places. Maybe it's worth exploring what's between you and Andy."
I sigh, feeling a pang of longing tugging at my heartstrings. "I don't know, Abby. It's complicated. Andy and I have a lot going on and we both live separate lives. I don’t think it’s a good idea."
Emma nods in understanding, her expression sympathetic. "I get that, Liv. But sometimes, you have to take a leap of faith and see where it leads. Who knows? Maybe Andy is exactly what you have been looking for."
“Who said I have been looking?”
Hey both keep quiet and just look elsewhere.
I bite my lip, the weight of their words sinking in as I grapple with my own conflicting emotions. Could it be that Andy holds the key to my happiness, or am I simply grasping at straws in a desperate bid to find something that isn't there?
As we continue our stroll through the city, the conversation shifts to lighter topics, our laughter mingling with the chatter of passersby and the soft strains of music drifting from nearby cafes. But beneath the surface, the question remains unanswered, lingering like a silent spectre in the back of my mind, waiting for me to confront the truth that lies within.
Eventually, we find ourselves sitting on a bench overlooking the river, the fading light of the setting sun casting a warm glow across the water. The mood turns reflective as we watch the tranquil scene before us, each lost in our own thoughts.
As the afternoon sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the bustling streets of New Haven, Emma suggests that we cap off our day of exploration with a leisurely dinner at a cozy restaurant she's heard rave reviews about.
"Sounds like a plan," Abby agrees, her eyes bright with excitement. "But I should probably head home soon. Knowing Dylan, he's probably getting himself into some sort of mischief with Rosie."
We chuckle at the mention of Dylan's antics, our shared experiences with Abby's mischievous darling daughter.
"I will drop you," Emma offers.
“Thank you.” Abby gives her a warm smile.
They both look at me hoping I offer to get dinner with Emma.
“I have a date.” I say.
“Oooooohhh who’s the mystery guy?” Abby asks.
“Yep spill it now.” Emma says with some authority.
My cheeks flush with embarrassment at her teasing, a nervous laugh bubbling up from deep within. "Uh, yeah, sure. I will let you know about him later. Lets see how it goes," I mumble, hoping to deflect their curiosity with a vague promise.
Abby shoots me a knowing look, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Come on, Liv, spill the beans. Who's the lucky guy?"
I shrug nonchalantly, my heart fluttering with nervous anticipation. "Oh, you know, just someone I met recently. Nothing serious."
But despite my attempts to downplay the situation, the girls continue to press for details, their curiosity piqued by my mysterious suitor. With each passing moment, their excitement grows, their imaginations running wild with possibilities.
"Is he cute?" Emma asks eagerly, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
"And tall?" Abby adds with a teasing grin.
I laugh nervously, feeling a surge of warmth flood my cheeks at their enthusiasm. "Um, yeah, I guess you could say that," I reply, offering them a coy smile.
They keep asking me questions as we walk towards the vehicles. God I am not saying anything that shall lead them towards suspecting Andy.