14th Period: The Wedding Draws Near

As time went on, we grew closer to Brian and his daughter, and before long, it was time for our two households to be united as one. My mother's burgeoning romance with Brian unfolded with a grace and tenderness that belied the depth of their connection. 

"I can't believe how fast these months have gone by. I'm so proud to have the two of you by my side. Henry and Erica, you have been so supportive of me and Brian these past eight months," my mother said, her voice full of gratitude.

Erica's little arms began to squirm as she tried to get out of Mother's arms as they tightening around her a little too tightly. 

I jumped forward towards my mother, saying, "Mother, why don't you hand Erica over to me while you finish getting ready for the day?" 

"No more, Momma," Erica said, trying to get mother to stop squeezing her. 

Poor Erica was getting squeezed. I had to jump in to help her. Mother's mind had become scattered these last few months as she made preparations for the upcoming wedding. Their affection for one another blossomed like the gardens surrounding our estate in the month of Equinox of Bloomara. Their love, rooted in shared loss and mutual understanding, grew into a canopy of comfort and companionship under which both families gathered. 

Brian, with his unwavering calm and understanding, brought laughter back into my mother's eyes, a sight I hadn't realized how much I yearned to see until it happened. As the wedding drew near, our lives intertwined more deeply as we merged our two households into one. 

"Mother, don't forget today you promised to pick up Stella from her grandparents' house. Erica and Stella have that playdate today. If you aren't able, let me know," I said, reminding her gently. 

"I'm fine, just daydreaming, that's all. Come on, Erica, do you want to come with Mommy?" she said. 

Erica shook her head fiercely and grabbed onto my arm tightly for dear life before responding, "Noooo, go with you." 

"That's not good, Mother. I think Erica has tired herself out. Why don't you pick up Stella first while we rest up?" I suggested, hoping Erica would catch on. 

Erica at first shook her head no, then turned her attention to Mother before resting her head gently on my shoulder. We waited patiently for Mother to leave the house. 

Brian and his mother had decided that my mother would be picking up Stella three times a week to spend time with Erica. The two little ones needed to spend more time together. In the meantime, when Brian got off work, he would drop by and discuss wedding preparations in the next room with my mother while I watched over the two little ones as they played quietly. 

Today, after Brian got off work, the two of them sat together in the garden, discussing what they wanted the ceremony to represent. Over the following weeks, we had many gatherings, sketching out plans, sharing ideas, and good-naturedly debating everything from the flower arrangements to the catering menu. Mother wanted roses, a symbol of enduring passion, while Brian suggested including wildflowers to capture their spontaneous joy. 

One late afternoon, "Not again, Stella! No, you are trying to eat Erica's hand, and if you bite her again, she might... Great, she hit you again!" I said, before pulling them apart. 

"Kids, they have too much energy. I think it's about time to feed Stella," I mumbled before Erica immediately became fussy. "Wait, Erica, what I meant to say was that I'm going to feed you too." 

As conversations outside flowed, they also addressed practical matters. Invitations need to be designed and sent, seating arrangements thoughtfully considered, and vows to be written. There were discussions about blending household traditions, ensuring everyone felt included and respected. Erica chipped in with her words of encouragement as they walked in through the back door. She offered to eat any leftover food from the wedding. 

It's the thought that counts. I suppose she wanted to offer some help. She was filled with enthusiasm, offering to help with that single task, which brightened the mood. The atmosphere in our home grew increasingly bustling, yet it was filled with a sense of purpose and togetherness that was palpable. 

Mother and Brian's commitment to making everyone feel part of this union was evident in each decision—big or small. They both expressed how vital it was for the day to reflect on their journey and the new chapter they were about to embark upon. Through these discussions, the groundwork for a memorable day was laid, promising not just a celebration of their love but a heartfelt union of our two families.