Our only son has left us astounded with the news that he wants to get marriedhes only 22! But my husband and I decided not to stand in his way, remembering that we ourselves wed quite young. My husband had just turned 22, and I was 19. Perhaps its just meant to be. Besides, we really like his fiancée: Emily studied with our son at university, in the same course. Once it became clear they were serious, we started making preparations for the wedding. With William being our only son, we felt it right to do things properly.
So, as tradition goes, my husband and I made plans to visit Emilys parentsour soon-to-be in-laws. We knew very little about Emily herself, other than the few times wed seen her with our son. Shed mentioned living with her mother in a small village just a short drive from our town. So, we packed our things and set off to meet her family, having made arrangements in advance, as is proper.
My husband picked up a lovely bouquet and I baked a cake to take along. When we arrived, the first thing that struck us was how immaculate and charming their front garden was.
The house itself, though old, was exceedingly tidy and well kept. We were greeted at the door by Emilys mother, Sarah, who seemed warm and welcoming straight awaya lovely woman, really. Sarah invited us in for tea and a meal. The food was delicious, evidence of her efforts in preparation. We had a wonderful visit, and Sarah turned out to be delightful company, but we didnt agree on any details for the wedding that day. Sarah explained early on that she hadnt the money to contribute toward the wedding. The moment hung in the air, and I could see how uncomfortable Emily felt. Our son looked equally dispirited; the wedding wasnt for his own sake but because he knew how much Emily longed for it. My husband and I decided we would still go ahead with the wedding, promising our son we’d cover the expenses, and time would tell what would come next.
We told Sarah she could invite those closest to her, assuring her that guests never come empty-handed and what they brought in cards would help cover their meals at the reception. Though Sarah hesitated, after some persuasion, she agreed to support the children.
A few days before the wedding, there was an unexpected knock on our door. To our surprise, it was Sarah. We invited her in for a cup of tea, and she hesitated before pulling out a white envelope with cash inside. She had taken out a loan at the bank because she felt so uncomfortable not contributing. We insisted she return the money, not wanting her to get into debt, especially since wed seen their modest home and simple way of life. However, Sarah was set on her decision and wouldnt take no for an answer.
The wedding was a splendid affair.
The children were over the moon. Sarah surprised us again at the celebrationshe was not only clever but a striking woman. At 45, shed long since divorced and raised her daughter alone. On the big day, however, Sarah truly blossomedher hairstyle, makeup, and dress transformed her. Everyone noticed, not just us, including Williams uncle, George, who was also divorced and working abroad in France for the past decade. He had returned especially for his nephews wedding. George spent the evening watching Sarah, and afterward announced he planned to stay in England a bit longer. I guessed his reasons.
By the following Sunday, we were off to the village again, this time as Georges family, to ask for Sarah’s hand in marriage. Things worked out splendidly for George and Sarahthey married, and within a few months, George brought his wife back with him to France. Sarah became not just my in-law but family. Shes a wonderful person, and if anyone deserves happiness, its her.
