Mitchell never returned that day, which disappointed Julie but she tried not to let it bother her. Julie and Cassandra did catch a couple of disapproving looks from other family members, but the stern looks from the Mamas kept everyone silent.
Dex was thrilled. He gave both of them big hugs. He told them that he was definately coming to the wedding even if he had to walk from California. Julie noticed Dex throwing Jim a couple of wistful looks Jim's way.
Brad gave them
a forced congradulations. He didn't leave early, but he and his family did say their good-byes almost as soon as dessert was finished.
The Mamas stayed late playing with their grandchildren. When clean up time came the Mamas made it clear
that it was someone else's turn since they had prepared the feast. The ladies gladly took care of the cleanup.
"Hello."
"Hello mom."
"How are you doing sweetheart?"
"Not good mom."
"Are you still upset
about the announcement last week?"
"No mom."
"Liar."
"It has nothing to do with me."
"You know very well that it does."
"It does not."
"You like her don't you?"
"Okay...yes mom I do."
"Then why don't
you visit her? You know she likes you too."
"She's getting married."
"You heard Cassy, they are not romantic. They have an understanding, otherwise she wouldn't have spent so much time with you."
"What kind of life is that,
being an understanding? Her heart obviously belongs to Cassy."
"You will find that a person's heart truly belongs to themselves. Julie has a very big heart capable of loving more than one person deeply."
"But what of our future?
"That will be up to you and her. You never know what the two of you would come up with. You may find that you could have great happiness with whatever you decide."
"Thanks mom, I feel better, still uncertain, but better."
"You're
welcome son. The future is always uncertain. Don't worry so much about what is yet to come."
Cassandra and Julie decided that they would set the date for May 15th. They had originally said they would marry at the courthouse
and soon, vut the Mamas would hear none of that. They said that their marriage needed to be celebrated by everyone. So May 15th was it.
It was about a week and a half after Thanksgiving and the ladies were making up their guest
list so they could figure out how big of a wedding to plan. The Mamas kept adding people and the ladies kept trying to subtract people. Cassandra and Mama Sandy were having a VERY vocal discussion about one particular guest when the doorbell rang.
Julie, who refused to add her opinion went to answer it.
There on the doorstep stood Mitchell. He looked very handsom wearing a black silk shirt and black dress pants. He carried in his hand 2 dozen red roses and 1 dozen white.
Under his arm there was a box of chocolates.
Julie stood there looking at him, stunned. "Never thought I would see you again."
"I considered calling, but I feel it's better to apologize in person. Julie, I was wrong and I'm sorry."
He offered her the red roses and candy.
She accepted them then stepped aside. "Come in."
Julie went into the kitchen to grab a vase. Mitchell walked into the living room.
Cassandra and the Mamas all smiled at him warmly.
"Hey sis," Mitchell said as he approached Cassandra offering her the white roses. "I am sorry about Thanksgiving."
"With a present like this," Cassandra laughed, "who can stay angry?"
"Can I talk to you a minute in private Cassy?"
"Sure."
They walked out onto the front porch and sat on a couple of chairs.
"I have a serious question to ask you Cassy."
"Okay, what is it?"
"Do I have your permission to date your fiance?"
"What kind of question
is that? Its not like you are going to marry her."
"That is exactly why, you are. You are my sister Cass. I know you two have an understanding that allows for outside romance, but I don't want to hurt you or interfere with your plans."
"It's simple, Mitch, a woman needs a little romance in her life. I can't give it to her, so who should I trust more than my brother not to hurt her, or to expect too much of her. Yes Mitchell, you may date my fiance."
"Thanks sis, I had
a feeling you would be fine with it."
Mitchell darted excitedly back into the house and threw his arms around Julie. They shared a long lingering kiss. He smiled at Julie. "So do you forgive me?"
Julie laughed. "Yes of
course."
"Would you like to join me for dinner?"
"I'd love to."
They kissed again, even more passionately.