I figured that my father had come home by now and that everyone was probably ready and waiting for me. I walked out into the hall and took one final look at myself in the hallway mirror. I smiled. Everything was perfect. The dress was beautiful and it was very flattering. Jeanne had styled my thick, uncontrollable hair. It was partially upswept with several curls framing my face. This night had to be perfect. It would be perfect. I would make it perfect.

I anxiously started down the stairs. Jack was standing at the base of the stairs, his back to me. I bit my lip in anticipation, trying not to grin like an idiot. Well, I ended up making a rather pained face instead. Ok, forget that, just grin like an idiot.

Jack slowly turned around to face me. I felt my face grow hot. The air felt thick and everything seemed to be moving twice as slowly. He looked like a different person. I was probably grinning like a fool but I didn't care. Jack was standing there, looking like a perfect gentleman. The tuxedo fit him perfectly, bow tie, cummerbund, everything. I briefly wondered where Johnny had gotten it but decided it really didn't matter right now. Jack's face and hands were scrubbed clean and his hair combed into place. Dad would have no idea...

Jack's face lit up with a smile and he laughed. I grinned even harder, if that was even possible, I was so elated. We stood there for a moment, smiling at each other, stunned by the other's appearance.

"Wow." I said, sincerely meaning it, "You look great." Jack smiled sheepishly. "Yeah, ya don't look so bad ya'self." he said, teasing. I smiled. We laughed. Just then my dad strolled into the room, followed by my brother who had an uncomfortable look on his face. I stopped smiling immediately and tensed up. Johnny and I exchanged silent looks. Johnny looked incredibly pained, as if he were about to lean over and puke on his shoes. "Calm down!", I mouthed to him, my eyes wide. I took a deep breath and collected myself.