Page 24 of Bride Games

24

A fter Emma bathed Lucy and tucked her in bed, she returned to an overzealous Eli who practically bounced off the couch when she stepped back into the living room. “Whoa! Someone’s excited. You look like a dog who devoured the last steak bone.”

Grinning as if he had discovered a winning lottery ticket, Eli led her toward the couch. “I have a brilliant idea. At least I think it’s brilliant.” He took a deep breath. “Hear me out.”

“I’m listening. Is this about our wedding?”

“Yes. I have an idea for our venue, plus I’m sure it’ll fit our budget. I’d just have to get approval first. A big approval since it’s rather unconventional.”

“You’ve got my attention.” Emma’s brows knitted. “Approval? From whom?”

Eli put his hand on her leg. “I really hope you like this. I think Lucy will love it.”

“Just tell me! I can’t take the suspense.”

“Here goes—what do you think about having our wedding at Appledale Elementary?”

Eyes widening, Emma asked, “In your old kindergarten classroom?”

“No, silly. In the cafeteria. I know the teachers would help with decorations—if it’s approved, that is. It would also take a lot of stress off.”

“Let me think about this.” Emma studied his pensive face for a few seconds too long. “Eli, I love your idea. Appledale Elementary is where we met since you were Lucy’s way-too-hot kindergarten teacher.” A chuckle erupted. “That’s also when I showed my hand by accidentally calling you Mr. Handsome in front of your gorgeous, former fiancée.” Emma jumped off the couch, squealing, “It’s perfect!” She clapped her hand over her mouth. “I hope Lucy didn’t wake up.”

They both whispered, “I love this idea. I love you,” as they kissed and embraced. At that point, no one knew who was talking since their excited, jumbled nerves and comments had intermingled.

Stroking his chin, Eli said, “I’ll get right on this and make an appointment with the principal, Dr. Ryder, tomorrow. Let’s don’t get our hopes up yet. This is out of the ordinary. Way out. They may not approve it. She may even have to ask the school board, the superintendent, and of course, will need to see which teachers, if any, want to be involved. I’m thinking they can somehow build it into their curriculum—art, language, career day, that sort of thing.” He lowered his voice. “I should have asked the principal before getting you excited.”

“She’ll say ‘yes’ I just know it.” Emma bit her lip. “Tell her we’ll pay for decorations or bring them in. We’ll pay for the food, music, whatever, of course. We don’t want the teachers or school out any money. We mainly want to use the venue since it’s sentimental.”

“I agree.” Eli reached for his keys. “I’m going back to my apartment to type up a few notes. Shoot me the two potential dates we’ve discussed and let me know if you want me to mention anything else.”

Emma threw her arms around his neck and kissed his forehead, both cheeks, and mouth. “Good luck tomorrow. I hope I can sleep tonight. I love this idea.”

“Besides, it’s Lucy’s way of helping. She thinks she has a big secret, remember? It would crush her if we held our big day elsewhere.” Emma went into the kitchen for a glass of water. “I want to get married at the school. Have you changed you mind?”

“Not at all. Just making sure. I don’t want you to be disappointed on your big day.”

Emma handed Eli a glass of water. “Disappointed? Are you kidding? It’s going to be the happiest day of my life. Right up there with the day I gave birth to Lucy.”