23 October 2012
The Final Chapter:
Chapter 43:
Ruby shut the old leather book slowly after reading the final page to me, clasping it tightly within her arms. She looked to the ground for a while, absorbing everything she'd read before laying it down on her lap.
After fifty eight years, three children, one grandchild and the same very shop I was still here, telling my story like it was yesterday. I thanked God everyday that I had had the instinct to write the magical tale down, so that it could live on forever, in my children and grandchildren for as many years as the book would last.
My beautiful granddaughter began to cry at the end, as did most people, but for me it only made me happier each and every time.
"Oh Grannie, what a story. I can't believe I've never read this before." She said, clutching my weak hand. It was something I had been saving for a long time, and I knew I wouldn't be here much longer to show it to her. "Grannie, you never said what happened to Jasmine and the baby." She asked inquisitively. "I thought you'd ask about her. Well, she moved like I said, but I never heard from her again. I tried to get in touch with her many times, especially when I had your mother, but I suppose she moved on, as people do." I sighed, staring up at the ceiling. "That's sad." "Not really, that's how life is my sweet. People change, I changed and so did she; maybe it was for the best." I replied. "Well, at least you had grandpa. He really loved you, didn't he." "He did, and I loved him. I still do; even if I can't see his face or hold his hand anymore, he knows I love him today like I did that snowy day in New York." "I wish I could find love like that." Said Ruby, sadly. "Oh my darling, you will. I can guarantee it. That boy seems nice, the one from the prom." "Yes he is nice, Elliott." She began to daydream. "But he's not going to be the man I love for the rest of my life." "You never know, Rubs. Don't close the door when it's only just opened." "I love you grandma. And I love your shop, too. I'll look after it, I promise." "Thank you my dear, that's very kind." "Grannie, would you mind if I published this, you know." She asked, hinting at when I was gone. "That depends; how many people do you think need my help?" "You're help?" She asked, sweetly. "Yes, in finding their true love." "Lots!" She said excitedly. "Well then, I suppose it would be a good idea to!" I had wanted to publish it when Matt passed away; a way of remembering him and sharing our story, but I was old and needed help in everything I did. When Ruby suggested this, I felt overwhelmed. We always shared a special connection, and I knew in my heart she'd want to make me happy.
"Thanks Grannie, for showing me your book." She hugged me gently. "It's yours now." "But, I can't." She tried to resist my offer. "I insist. You just take good care of it though, ok?" "Ok." She smiled.
She kissed my cheek softly, then tip toed out of the room closing the door behind her. I turned on my side to face my wedding photo, running my finger along Matt's silhouette. My eye lids suddenly became very heavy, a feeling I hadn't yet experienced. I lifted myself gently, now lying flat on the bed, and pulled the blanket high up to my chin. As I closed my eyes, I smiled as I recalled every amazing part of my life that could never be forgotten; buying the shop, seeing it done up for the first time, getting married, bringing my beautiful children into the world, but my fondest memory stayed linked round my neck. Still smiling I tilted my head slightly, stroking my innocent butterfly, that held the many secrets to my heart.
by vera©
The Wedding Shop • Opuss № I