My Dream Man (19 page)

That afternoon Greg, his dad, and I stood on my parent’s porch, waiting for them to come to the door. Tabby was the one who answered. She wore a wide smile when she saw the three of us and said, “Merry Christmas!”

The guys took off their coats and went on in carrying the bags of gifts as Tabby and I stayed in the foyer. I lifted my hand so she could see the ring. She shrieked upon seeing it, then covered her mouth as if it would lower the sound. “You called him,” she whispered.

“I’m not above learning from my wise little sis,” I said, hoping to make her feel proud.

She bobbed her head in agreement, happy with herself. “Let me see it again,” she said.

Mom made her way over. She could tell we were buzzing about something and had to get in on it. “We’re engaged!” I said, showing her the ring.

“Ahhhh!” she cried out, playing her part like a pro. Then she gave me a big hug. “Oh honey. I’m so happy for you.”

“Thanks to both of you for keeping the drama on the down low.”

“What drama?” Tabby asked, smiling.

 I let out a deep sigh. “You guys are the best. Let’s go drink some eggnog.”

The tree looked beautiful in the family room. It twinkled in cream-colored lights with burgundy and green ornaments. My parents had really outdone themselves. Greg and his dad had just finished arranging their presents and were standing beside the tree, admiring the decorations.

“Dad. I’ve got some news,” I said. Mom and Tabby stayed by my side, both giddy with excitement.

My dad walked over. He wore an expression of genuine curiosity.

I showed him my left hand and said, “Greg and I are getting married!”

“That’s great news honey!” He gave me a big hug. “Congratulations Sam. He’s a good one.”

I glanced at Greg. He looked embarrassed by the compliment, but he seemed pleased watching us.

“Thanks Dad.”

“I think this calls for champagne,” Mom said. She scurried off to the kitchen. Dad followed since he obviously knew where to find the corkscrew.

Greg came over and gave me a kiss on the cheek. “That went well,” he whispered.

I smiled and reached for his hand. “It went better than well.”

Mom and Dad passed out flutes of bubbly. Then everyone lifted their glasses. “To Greg and Samantha.” Dad said.

“And to grandchildren,” Mr. Varo added, winking at me.

“Hear, hear,” Tabby said. She looked a bit tipsy, like she’d been hitting the eggnog before we arrived.

We clinked our glasses and then Greg turned to me. He gave me a kiss on the lips in front of everyone, and our small group filled the air with cheers and whistles. When it died down, I had to give credit where credit was due.

“None of this could have happened without Michael Varo. Not only was he a model patient, he was also a pretty great matchmaker. He could tell I was smitten with his son and found ways to put us together.”

Greg smiled at his dad.

“My son needed a person who would truly love him and always stay by his side.”

I understood the double meaning and looked up at Greg. He gently rubbed the small of my back.

“Okay kids. This has been fun,” Dad said. “But I’m starved. When do we eat?”

Mom swatted at him. “Ten more minutes,” she said.

While we ate dinner Greg kept stealing glances at me. I wished I knew what he was thinking, but his expression gave no clue. I was fantasizing about later, daydreaming of him in my bed wearing nothing but a Santa hat. He must have picked up on my vibe because he gave me a seductive grin.

“So when are you thinking of having the wedding?” Mom asked.

“I’m not sure,” I said. “We haven’t discussed details yet.”

“Summer seems to be a popular time. Or Fall,” Greg said.

“Well, whenever it is, I can’t wait to start planning everything with Mom and Tab. This is going to be so much fun.”

“Oh no,” said my dad. “That’s code for ‘expensive,’ isn’t it?”

Greg looked stunned for a moment. Then everyone broke into laughter. It was the perfect soundtrack to a perfect day.

After we opened gifts I pulled Tabby aside. “Will you be my maid of honor?”

Her response was a hiccup. Then she laughed. She’d had way too much to drink. “Of course!” she said. “I’d be delighted.” Then her face grew more serious. “Who else are you going to ask?”

“Just Valerie and Genevieve. I want to keep it small.”

She nodded. “That’s a good idea. Smaller is better. In weddings, at least.”

We both giggled. Then I said, “I’m thinking of having Mrs. Myszkowski as my flower girl. What do you think?”

Tabby’s jaw dropped. “Get the hell out. You’re not serious, are you?”

I broke into a belly laugh. “I had you there for a second. You should have seen your face.”

She pushed me lightly. “Man. You’ve really bonded with that crazy old lady.”

“She’s not crazy. She’s actually really cool. I’ll take you to meet her. You’ll see.”

“Whatever.”

Greg came over and grinned at us. “You two are having too much fun over here. What are you laughing about?”

“Wedding plans. She wants her old wheelchair patient to be your flower girl.”

Greg turned to me and could tell it was a joke. “You mean we’re not having ASIMO do that?”

I broke into a fit of laughter. “Your dad would have a fit.”

“Hey Dad. Sam and I were just discussing wedding attendants. I’m thinking ASIMO would be a great ring bearer. What do you think?”

Mr. Varo shook his head. “Whatever you say son.”

He was tired from all the food. He didn’t have the energy to argue.

At the end of the night we said our goodbyes, and my parents congratulated us again. Then we drove to Greg’s place. “You okay that I’m staying at Sam’s tonight?” he asked his dad.

“Of course. Why wouldn’t I be?” Mr. Varo replied.

“Just checking since it’s Christmas.”

Greg slipped away to pack a bag and Mr. Varo and I stood in the family room together.

“I’m glad you called my son,” he said.

I smiled. “Me too.”

Greg and I chowed down on leftovers the next day while lounging in our jammies. Eating dinner for breakfast seemed a sensible idea since it required almost no work on our part. Besides, we’d worked up quite an appetite the night before.

I dipped my slice of ham in mustard. “Too bad you didn’t have a Santa hat last night.”

Greg smiled. “They’re probably on clearance today. I can pick one up if you like.”

“Do that. You never know when it might come in handy.” I liked that he was okay with playing dress up.

As we polished off the leftovers, my mind drifted to Allison.

I put on a serious face. “You know how we made up and stuff…?” Greg seemed to notice the shift in my voice. “Well you never told me anything about your visit with Allison.”

“I wondered if you’d ask about that,” he said. Then he looked me in the eyes. “I wasn’t trying to hide anything from you. I just figured I’d hurt you enough, so why bother bringing it up?”

I shrugged. “I still want to know.”

Greg had finished eating. He pushed his plate away, then sat back in his chair. “I got off stage and came back to the table and you were gone. I went looking for you, and out of nowhere Allison stopped me. I’m not sure what you thought I knew, but I had no idea she was going to be there. I was taken aback. Anyway, she said hello, and told me what a great presentation I gave. She was about to launch into a longer conversation when I cut her off. I said I was here with my fiancé and had to find her, but that I’d try to catch up with her later. Then she asked if you had strawberry blonde hair and I said ‘yes’ and recognition clicked in her eyes. Her expression grew concerned, confirming my fear, and when she told me what she said I just about had a heart attack.”

It was weird hearing his end of the story. Like some alternate reality.

“That’s when I called you. When you didn’t respond, I was frantic, so I called you again. When you still didn’t answer, I got Allison’s number so I could call her later and raced back to the hotel.” Greg rubbed his head, messing up his hair. “That’s when I saw you’d taken your things. I was freaking out. Then I saw the room key and the ring.”

I found myself feeling the emotions again as he described what he went through. I didn’t like living it a second time and was almost sorry I’d brought it up.

“When I realized how bad things were, I collapsed on the bed and started crying. I did that for an about an hour. Then I realized I had to call Allison back. I told her what happened and she was horrified by what a mess she’d created. She said she had no idea, that she thought we were co-workers.”

He glanced at me, looking for a response.

“Well, considering almost all the conference attendees were scientists, I could see why she’d think that,” I said. Something still troubled me though. “I do wonder why she told me she was your wife. I mean, she said you were separated, but it seemed like an odd thing to say to a stranger. A female stranger.” I looked down at my lap. “And the way she was admiring you… I guess I haven’t been able to forget she’s the one you originally wanted to spend your life with.”

“Oh Sam,” Greg said, taking hold of my hand. “That was long ago. I have no feelings for her anymore. I honestly don’t know why she told you we were married. I’ve got no explanation for that. And as far as her admiring me, I think that’s more of a professional thing. I think she’s just proud of me.”

 I managed a small smile. “You must be right. But when she said ‘I’m his wife,’ I freaked.”

“I know.”

He got up from the table and led me by the hand to the couch. When we sat he said, “The whole situation was a nightmare. I wish it hadn’t happened.” Greg gazed at me. “The truth is I never felt for Allison the way I feel for you. I realize now that she and I were just great friends. We didn’t have the chemistry you and I have.”

I sighed. “That makes me feel better. I was worried I was second best.”

“Nothing could be further from the truth,” he assured me.

He began kissing me. Not in a passionate way, but in a way that felt therapeutic. The longer his lips were pressed against mine the more secure I felt. Then he began caressing my knee. “Am I still your dream man?” he asked, looking hopeful.

“The one and only.” I smiled.

His expression grew serious. “I never want to lose that title Sam. I don’t want to let you down.”

“You won’t lose it,” I said. “How could you? You were the one who made me have my first orgasm, and in my sleep no less.”

Greg was smiling now.

I was happy to let the previous conversation go. I wanted to keep him smiling. “Did I mention how smart you are? And how cuddly?”

His grin widened.

“You’re my Einstein bear. Every time I hug you I probably earn college credit.”

Greg chuckled. “You’re too funny.” Then he rubbed the top of my thigh. “Don’t stop.”

I was on a roll, and he’d just given me the green light to get sillier. “You’re so sexy women can barely control themselves in your presence. You’re a kitty cat magnet. The mayor of Purrtown.”

He was getting into it, but I couldn’t think of any more funny lines.

“Do you really think all those things about me?”

“Of course.”

Greg looked sad for a moment. “I was worried while we were apart you might consider going back to Brian.”

Maybe that was him that drove by that night. “Never,” I said. “He’s just a friend. I did see him once over the holidays. He gave me a ride home from the mall after Val had car trouble.”

He seemed satisfied with my answer. Then he began kissing me, gently at first and then passionately. When we made love he acted more dominant than usual. It was like with every thrust he was trying to eliminate some imaginary competition, which only made me enjoy it even more.

When I woke from my nap, Greg rolled over and faced me. “I wonder why I can never make it happen in real life. I mean, it happened in your sleep, but when I try to recreate the dream while you’re awake, I can’t achieve the same result.”

His discouraged look cracked me up. He was so intent on getting me to have an orgasm while kissing him down there. I wished he’d just let it go and stop obsessing. “Maybe it had to do with the supermoon,” I said. “Maybe celestial energy is key.”

He could tell I was messing with him. “I’m serious,” he said. “I find it perplexing that the phenomena can’t be repeated.”

“I’m serious too. It could have something to do with the stars. You never know.”

Greg considered my theory, then reached for his phone. “I’m going to find out when the next supermoon is. And I’m going to research and make note of all solar and lunar eclipses and add them to my calendar.”

“You just want me to worship you pagan style. You’re trying to be like an Aztec Sun God. Before I know it I’ll have to call you El Snuggly.”

That got him laughing again. We spent the rest of the day online researching honeymoon destinations.

Tabby and I were going to spend the day checking out dresses. Mom was supposed to come too, but she had a sinus infection, so she said she would come with us next time, once we narrowed down the dress choices. Before heading to the bridal shop I wanted to swing by Mrs. Myszkowski’s place and tell her the good news. Tabby was game, so I dragged her along.

When we pulled into the parking lot, Tabby groaned. “How depressing. I don’t like it already.”

I slammed the car door shut. “Just think how the residents feel. I’m sure they don’t like it much either. Now zip it and behave,” I teased.

We made our way to her apartment and knocked. When she opened the door, she looked great. “Hey there,” I said. “Just wanted to stop by and tell you some good news. And I brought my sister Tabby along.”

Anna’s blue eyes scanned Tabby up and down. “She seems harmless. C’mon in.”

I just had my engagement ring cleaned and it sparkled like crazy. After we took a seat, I showed it to her.

“Oh my! That’s a beauty. Looks like it’s from my time,” she said, examining it closely.

“It was Greg’s grandma’s, so it could be.” I stared at her after she’d finished ogling the ring. “What’d you do?” I asked. “There’s something different about you. You look younger.”

Anna smacked her knee with satisfaction. “You’re the third person to ask me. But you’re the only one I’m going to share the secret with.”

Tabby leaned forward ever so slightly.

“I had a non-surgical facelift. Something they do with lasers called Fractora.” She turned from side to side, showing me. “My daughter-in-law got it for me for Christmas.”

“Wow. You look ten years younger,” I said.

“Why thank you,” she replied. “I have to say my daughter-in-law is beginning to grow on me.”

Anna saw confusion on Tabby’s face. “It’s a long story. I won’t bore you.” Then she turned her attention back to me. “So tell me how you two got back together.”

I recounted the tale, and as I did, she nodded approvingly. “I told you he’d come back. I would have bet money on it.”

I smiled dimly. “I wish I knew how you were so confident.”

“It’s called living a long time. Comes with age.”

Tabby smiled.

Anna eyed Tabby. “Do you have a boyfriend?”

“Kind of,” she said, looking like she didn’t want to get into it. “It’s another long story.”

“Aren’t they all?” Anna turned to me. “I like this one,” she said, grinning.

“Me too. And hey, I’ll let you know the wedding date as soon as we set one. I expect to see you there.”

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world sweetie.”

“Well we better get going. We’re headed to the bridal shop to try on dresses.” I rose, and Tabby followed. “What are your plans for today?”

Mrs. Myszokswi gave me a sly smile. “Oh you know, now that I look ten years younger I may entertain a dinner invitation. And there’s always my quest to get one of these numbskulls to buy me a pack of cigarettes.”

“I’m glad you haven’t succeeded.” I smirked.

“I haven’t succeeded yet. Eventually one of them will give in.”

I shook my head. It was good to have a dream.

After we left Tabby said, “She was cool. I could actually see her as a flower girl.”

I pictured her gliding down the aisle in her wheelchair, throwing rose petals. “She’d steal the show. That’s all everyone would remember about the wedding.”

Tabby agreed. Then we went to the bridal shop for our appointment.

A very polished woman in her forties greeted us. When I’d spoken to her on the phone, she had asked about my budget. After she heard the figure, she perked up, excited that the dress choices wouldn’t be limited.

“Hello ladies. My name is Lana,” she said, extending a hand.

I shook hers and said, “I’m Sam, and this is my sister Tabby. She’s my Maid of Honor.”

“So nice to meet you both,” she said, smiling. “I’ve set aside some of the prettiest bridal gowns for you to try, and of course you’re welcome to look around as well.”

I decided to try her picks first, so Lana showed us to the fitting room where she had the dresses displayed. As I scanned them, I couldn’t help but be impressed. “Wow,” I murmured.

“Wow’s right,” Tabby said. “This is so much fun!”

“If you need help selecting bridesmaids dresses we can start that process today, too,” Lana said.

“That’s my sister’s job. You’ll have to check with her on that.”

Tabby’s eyes popped out of her skull. “Oh my gosh, really?” she shrieked. “You rock Sam.”

“You’re the one with all the fashion sense. Just remember to pick a style that will look good on all three of you.”

“Done,” she assured me. She threw her coat and bag on the chaise. “But let’s focus on your dress first.”

I undressed and pulled the first gown over my head. Tabby zipped. I’d worn flats, but Lana had brought a pair of low heels in my size, so I stepped into them. Unexpected emotion welled in me as I turned from side to side, admiring myself in the mirror.

I couldn’t believe this was real. I was marrying Greg.

“I love it,” I said, my voice cracking.

Tabby came over and gave me a hug. “You look beautiful.”

Lana arrived to give her opinion, but kept quiet when she saw Tabby and I were having a moment. When I wiped my eyes free of tears, I noticed she’d quietly slipped away.

Over the next hour Tabby helped me in and out of ten dresses. They were all so beautiful. I liked different things about each of them. I sat on the chaise next to my sister, sipping a glass of water Lana had thankfully provided. “Who knew choosing a dress would be so exhausting?”

Tabby raised her eyebrows. “You’re kidding, right? Of course it’s exhausting. Fashion is hard work.”

I laughed. “Well, I’ve got it narrowed down to my top three. I just don’t know which one Greg would prefer.”

Tabby rolled her eyes. “That man is so whipped you could show up wrapped in tin foil and he’d be thrilled.”

I sighed. She was right. I just wanted everything to be perfect.

After taking a bathroom break I tried on my top three choices again and made a selection. The gown I picked was pure white, with clean lines and few embellishments. Modern but feminine.

My stomach growled afterward. “I’m hungry too,” Tabby said. “Why don’t we get lunch and come back next time with Mom to shop for bridesmaids dresses. That way she can be involved.”

“I won’t argue with that,” I said.

Tabby and I found a restaurant, and ate like hungry wolves. I laughed when I realized how quickly I’d gone from being perfectly demure and proper in the bridal shop to snarfing down food like an animal.

Tabby interrupted my thoughts. “I don’t know how you’d feel about this, but Jack asked if you’d be interested in having him DJ the wedding. He said he’d give you a great deal, and although he’s not your favorite person, he’s actually a very good DJ. I’ve heard him spin. I don’t think he’s done a wedding reception yet, but he said he’d be happy to work with you to choose a set list that you liked.”

I still wasn’t a fan of Jack, but Tabby believed in him. “Let me talk with Greg about that. If he agrees, we’ll put together a list of songs. I suppose we’ll have to meet before the wedding to go over the details?”

“Yes. But don’t worry. I’ll be there, too. I speak Jackass so I can translate if necessary.”

“Um…you knew about that?”

“Of course. I’ve called him that plenty of times myself. And I know how you feel about the guy. Just give him a chance. He’s not so bad.”

“Okay. Yes, I can do that. I’m learning a lot about second chances.”

“Excellent,” said Tabby.

“And I promise not to call him Jackass again.”

“Good. I’ll let him know.”

“What?”

“Kidding, sis. Just kidding.”