As the nuptial day drew nearer, with the invitations sent,
The bridesmaids’ dresses chosen and her mother well content,
The bride-to-be was happy and her spirits had a lift
When she saw the pile of packages; each one contained a gift.
The groom-to-be beside her whispered nothings in her ear
And the lordly look upon his face made expectations clear.
He glowed with satisfaction whilst anticipating bliss,
Then he slipped his arm around her and bestowed a loving kiss.
They’d made their reservations for a heavenly honeymoon!
They’d be sailing on The Love Boat on the twenty-first of June.
They’d packed their bags, quite certain they’d remembered everything;
It just remained to say, I do. that final day of spring.
The preacher asked the question, he said, Do you take this man?
And she answered very coyly, Just as quickly as I can!
Then he turned and asked the bridegroom Will you take her as your wife?
And the groom responded nervously, I’ll cherish her for life!
The best man fumbled for the ring and dropped it at their feet,
But soon recovered it to make the wedding pact complete.
They’d soon be off to cut the cake and drink the bridal toast,
The best man knowing that he’d lost the girl he loved the most!
She’d been his high school sweetheart long before she’d known the groom,
And he had introduced them, now his heart was drowned in gloom.
He thought she knew he loved her, so he’d never made his play,
For he always felt quite certain that he’d marry her one day.
And now he stood beside her at the altar, she in white.
She’d pledged her troth to his best friend; His love she’d not requite.
He thought, I was complacent, why did I let her go?
I’ve known her for so many years, and I have loved her so!
As they turned to leave the altar, as they neared the opening door,
A tearful voice rang through the church, He married me, before!
In the shadows stood a pretty girl with red-rimmed, tearful eyes,
And seeing her, the groom just stood, transfixed there with surprise.
He offered no objection never claiming she had lied.
He walked towards the crying girl and followed her outside.
The best man followed quickly, asking was this really true,
And the one-time groom just nodded saying, You know what to do!He said, I know you love her for I’ve seen it in your face,
Now go to her and marry her, she loves you! Take my place.
Go, take her on the 'Love Boat' cruise and when you’re man and wife,
Please ask her to forgive me, for I almost spoiled her life!
Please tell her it was jealousy! Now you must let me go!
I always envied what you had, I’m sure you know it’s so.
Now go to her and tell her that you want her as your wife,
And as they do in fairy tales; Be happy all your life!
Don Mulford