Audrey ran a hand across the exquisite fabric and smoothed down the lines of the ivory colored gown. As she studied her reflection in the antique cherry finished cheval floor mirror, turning every now and then to observe herself from varying angles, the lissome blonde could not find fault with the image before her.

The designer garment which draped her 5’ 8” frame was understated but not matronly; showcasing her trim physique but not drawing so much attention to her tastefully fit form as to make her appear tawdry or whorish. No, the image she sought to project—as always—was reserved yet refined.

Everything was going to be perfect. . .

In 18 days she and Jack would stand before a small group of family, friends, and colleagues, finally declaring to the heavens and the world their love for each other; that she was his and vice versa. Forever. At that last thought, she allowed herself a small, triumphant smile. The smile broadened as her gaze fell upon the two unaddressed ivory envelopes atop her bedside table.

Audrey gave no heed to the small, insistent voice warning her that sometimes in letting ‘well enough’ suffice one actually managed to gain more than was needed. She wasn’t interested in “more”; her sights were firmly set on having everything. And she knew exactly how to achieve her goal, had already set the wheels in motion.

Her gaze once again fell upon the envelopes. Each contained a lone invitation that had yet to be delivered. In truth from the very beginning Audrey’s intent all along had been to ensure the delivery of only one of the two invitations. Audrey knew when she contacted Paul’s brother Gary he would not be able to attend due to scheduling conflicts. Extending an “invite” to him was all a ruse to lay the groundwork for her true target: Jack’s former lover, Sabrina. And while Audrey overall deplored contact with her late husband’s younger brother (their visits always wound up leaving Audrey emotionally drained), she was willing to ‘lose the battle’—sacrifice, and endure a drawn-out, stilted, awkward conversation or two—in order to ‘win the war.’

And to Audrey, there would be no sweeter victory than that of watching as Jack’s insufferably arrogant ex-lover looked on while Jack vowed to spend the rest of his days loving, honoring and cherishing her, Audrey. Granted, Jack had yet to say yes; but hadn’t said no, either, she reasoned. As a result, Audrey had every confidence he’d come around. Oh, yes! Again, she smiled.

Everything was going to be perfect. . .