The morning of Cathy's wedding dawned bright and clear. Pru was excited as although she had attended weddings before she had been too young to remember anything much. She was disappointed that she would nor be wearing a bridesmaid's dress but Dora had let her choose her own outfit from 'Miss Jacqueline'. Dora's own had been bought from the main 'Jacqueline' store. Jeff was relieved that he did not have to wear a suit but went with Steve to choose his outfit of smart black jeans and white shirt. He'd really wanted black but Steve said it was inappropriate for a wedding. He did however buy him a black shirt to wear on another occasion. He was also going to wear a black bow tie to complement those worn by Steve, Paul and the best man. Steve himself did not really need a new suit as he had several worn for other weddings including his own that he had hardly worn. Dora persuaded him that this was a really special occasion so he splashed out on a charcoal grey suit complete with waistcoat and a silver grey shirt to match what Paul would be wearing. Cathy was wearing an ivory two piece with burnt orange accessories. Pru had chosen a dusky pink dress and bolero and Dora a plum calf length dress and matching jacket.
Steve left early to join Cathy at her flat. Paul and Martin, his best man had spent the night in the hotel where the reception was being held. Cathy was visibly nervous and said she needed a drink to steady her nerves. Both Paul and Steve had anticipated this and made sure that the only alcohol in the flat was a small bottle of whisky. ' You can have one small glass, mum. any more and you'll spoil the day for yourself and everyone else. Cathy knew he was right. 'This is a big step I'm taking.'
'It's a big step for Paul too and unlike you he's never been married.'
'What am I going to do when he has to go away?'
'We'll cross that bridge when we come to it, perhaps you can stay with us again.'
'After last time- I don't think so, and I've still got the court case hanging over my head which will be days after we get back. Paul says he'll wait for me even if I get sent down but oh Steve I don't want it to happen.'
'Well, for now just concentrate on today and the marvellous honeymoon you'll be having.' Steve pinned the corsage of roses and Stephanotis to Cathy's lapel and she attached his buttonhole.
There was a hoot from outside. 'Taxi's here. Come on mum, best foot forward.'