* Liam Lockwood's POV *

"Seriously, mother."

"Good afternoon to you too, Liam. It's good to see you again, since you were gone for like two weeks."

"I'm sorry, I've been busy."

"Yes, I know. It doesn't matter. I'm just glad you are home for once. You know your sister would like you to be here for her, especially now."

"You're right. I've been very absent lately and she needs a shoulder to lean on."

"That's my boy."

"Speaking of, where's Amber?"

"She and Mark went for cake testing. They'll be here in a second."

"Why, look at that." Amber stood in the doorway with Mark gehind her. "Mom was right. We were here in a second."

"What a coincidence!"  I exclaimed dramatically.

"Come here stranger!" My sister pulled me into a hug. Her hand went around my neck and she buried her face into my shoulder like she always does. Wow, I actually missed my big sis.

"Hey, soon-to-be-married sister."

"Welcome back home. How was babysitting your Cinderella? Are you actually making progress?"

"Progress in what?" I held myself stupid.

"Oh you know. The progress of getting your girl."

"Well, not really. I've just convinced her to go on a date with me."

"What?! That's great! I'm so happy for you! You're finally getting somewhere. You know, I always liked the idea of you two being together."

"Really?  Well, me too."

* Lora Croffard's POV *

Mary and I were sitting on the deck both with lemonade in our hands. The fresh air was refreshing.

"Why were you a waitress, Lora? And now a nanny?"

"We don't have money for studies and futher learning so I had to make some money to get to London."

"Why on earth London?  Aren't you happy here?"

"My grandmother lives there and she offered to pay for my studies and the only way she would pay for it is when I'm in London. Otherwise she won't pay a thing. And I really want to get my grade in literature. I want to become a journalist someday. To write about issues and events of the world, fashion advice and I also want to write books and plays."

"Wow, why didn't you just tell me?"

"It doesn't change a thing and I'm kind of starting to feel at home here. You guys are all I have. It's hard to imagine a life without all of this, now."

"Lora, you're like my daughter by now. You can tell me anything. If you really want to get to London I'll help you."

"Really?!  You would?" 

"Yes, but that's not to say I would like you leaving. And I'm sure I won't be the only one upset. But you can get your grade and come visit."

"Thank you, Mary. But I have some duties here first. Like the wedding."

"So, you're actually leaving?"

"I have to. How else am I going to make a living?"

"Okay, just promise me you'll stay until the wedding's over."

"I promise." She hugged me. It's the first time she's actually touching me. It felt good. Maybe she's the mother I never had.

"Lora darling,  we love you no matter what or where you are." There's a hint of sadness in her voice. Now I know, the people who loves me and who'll always be by my side are right here.

I actually have a family now.

* Liam Lockwood's POV *

"We kind of have a dilemma."  Amber said.

"I'm listening?"

"Sharly, my friend, can't attend the wedding because she has a work thing or something. And she was my braidsmaid. Now, I can't ask one of the cousins because who will I pick and the dress won't fit one of them. So I though maybe, just maybe Lora can be my braidsmaid. She's my future sister in law, anyway."

"Not so quick, Ambs."

"Yeah sorry, anyways. She's about the same size as Sharly. We can just do some changes in the measurements and then it's good to go. Do you think she'll do it?"

"Why wouldn't she?"

"And it works out. You're the best man and she's the braidsmaid."

"Yes, but this time you have to ask her yourself."

"Of course I will. I'll go tomorrow after work. I'll meet up with her  somewhere. Can you manage to transport her?"

"I suppose I can." 

"Thank you little bro'. I owe you too much."

* Lora Croffard's POV *

"Can you just tell me why your sister wants to meet up with me?"

"Sorry, Cinderella. It's not my story to tell"  I sighed as we drove down to the mall.

Liam parked in front of the Blue café. "Seriously.  Here?"

"It wasn't my choice, don't look at me."

"Okay." We climbed out and walked towards the entrance of the café.

"Lora?" a voice asked as we entered the cafe. It's Riri, my ex boss.

"Hi Riri."

"What are you doing here? I did not expect you to come back to get your job. Sorry, but we can't give it back to you."

"You don't have to worry about any of that. I have a better job now."

"Um, Lora. My sister's at the back," Liam said, softly. I nodded and we walked up to where Amber and her fiance were seated.

"Hi."

"Lora! You're here." She stood up to hug me and she did the same with Liam. Mark also hugged me and shook Liam's hand.

"Can somebody please tell me what all of this is about?" I knew I sounded a little rude, but my head hurt and I just wanted to get back in bed.

"Well, I wanted to ask you if you'll be my braidsmaid. You're a good friend and my brother adores you. Your actually a replacement for my friend, because she can't make it and I can't think of anyone better."  

I'm shocked to say the least. She actually wanted me to be her braidsmaid... On her perfect day. I've never thought in my life that I actually have a chance in this.

"Really?"

"Yeah, if you're up to it. So you're in?"

"Yes!" I yelled, probably to loud. "I will. Thank you, Amber. I promise I won't let you down."

"I know you won't. So milkshakes everyone?"

"Yes, please."  We all said in union.

When all of our drinks came, the excitement was taking over my whole body. "Do you already know what your colours are going to be?"

"Yes, we've decided on white and a pastle pink. Very light and soft colours."

"Ah, that's beautiful."

"Do you know what your wedding colours be someday, Lora?"

"Chance aren't that good for me getting married anytime soon."

"That's not what my brother has in mind." My face set on fire.

"Amber!"  Liam exclaimed.

"Sorry, but every girl dreams about their dream wedding. You should have a idea?"

"Well, maybe lots of white of course and a maroon or cherry red. There will be many red roses and loads of silver linen. Candles should be everywhere and fairylights will hang from the ceiling."

"You see, you have it. It sounds like a fairytale."

To my shock, Liam took my hand in his. "A fairytale wedding for Cinderella."

A/N

Hey

I know this is a boring chap, but it'll step up from here. Next chap will be the wedding. I hope everything will go as planned....

Comments please

Loviez 
Maruné