Written from Joey's point of view. "Against All Odds", performed by Westlife and Mariah Carey is featured.
Last night had been hard when I ran into her at the bridal shower. I never expected her to be there. Last I heard she had moved to LA. I was cold last night, cutting her off. But I had to be. If I had let her say anything I might have given in. She looked so beautiful, and so different. She looked so professional. I missed her, something I couldn't do. Standing here, in front of the church, at my friends wedding, all I could do was think about her, and steal occasional glances. I hated it, it was easier with her across the country.
The service was over before I knew it. I kept my eyes straight forward as I walked out behind JC. I got into the limo with the three other groomsmen and the four bridesmaids. I sat almost in a trance, looking out the window as we went to the hotel where the reception was being held.
"Hey Joe," I heard Justin saying.
"Yeah man?" I asked turning to face him.
"Did you see Bron at the wedding?" JC asked.
"Yeah," I answered and then resumed looking out the window. I guess they got the picture that I didn't want to talk about it.
Bronwen was at the reception too. I thought she wouldn't have come. Part of me was mad at her for it, for disturbing me, but at the same time I knew how hard it was for her to be there. I was dancing with Heather, one of Lauren's friends and having a fairly nice time.
I watched as Justin walked across the room towards her table. I saw him bend over and whisper something in her ear, and then that gorgeous smile spread across her face as he assisted her to her feet. He moved them pretty close to where I was dancing and they began to groove. It was happening again, as I watched her move to the music. I could hear her laugh as it rang in my ear. The song stopped and a slow one began to play.
**"How can I just let you walk away, just let you leave without a trace
I felt a tap on my shoulder, "May I cut in?" Justin asked, as he left Bronwen at his side, alone in the middle of the dance floor. "Just dance with her," he whispered as he took my place.
Not wanting to cause a scene, I placed my hands softly on her hips. She placed one hand on my shoulder and the other on my arm. She smelled so good, I was lost.
**"Cos we've shared the laughter and the pain and even shared the tears
"I know you don't want to talk to me," her voice started so soft. "But there is something I need to say."
"Say it now." I said, almost surprised at how cold I was.
She looked up at me with a pained expression on her face, and I couldn't look at her. I pulled her closer so I wouldn't have to see her eyes. That was a mistake. I forgot how she fit in my arms so perfectly, and the way she made me feel when her body was pressed against mine.
**"Ooh take a look at me now, well there's just an empty space
"I know I ruined everything," she said, head on my shoulder, "But I still need to tell you this... I haven't told anyone... and it's something I think you should hear...it's something I need to tell you."
I could feel myself weakening as her body shook gently in my arms.
"Please don't say it now," I said, mush softer than before.
**"so many reasons why
"I really have to tell someone," she sniffled, "I'm going to just crumble if I keep it in any longer."
"Ok," I was caving, "Maybe lunch this week, at that pizza place... but I'm only going to listen to you, it won't change anything."
**"But to wait for you, is all I can do and that's what I've got to face
"Thank you," she whispered, as she backed away.
"What happened?" Chris asked, patting my shoulder.
"I'm gonna eat lunch with her," I said, not quite able to believe myself. I could still feel her in my arms as I watched her gather her things and sneak out of the hall.
I stood in the front of the church, at the sides of my best friends. I couldn't believe Lance was getting married. He was so nervous and kept checking his watch. Lauren was almost ready to walk down the aisle. I was watching them close the doors to the sanctuary so she could take her place, when I saw Bron sneak in and sit at the back of the church. I didn't change my expression, but changed my attention to Lauren when the wedding march began to play. She began to walk and the congregation stood up. She passed the last few rows and I could see Bronwen again. She was the only girl I ever noticed details with. Her eyes misted slightly as she watched her friend. A small smile played on her lips. She then glanced away from Lauren and our eyes met for a split second before I turned away.
When I stand here taking every breath with you, ooh
You're the only one who really knew me at all
How can you just walk away from me,
when all I can do is watch you leave"**
You're the only one who really knew me at all
So take a look at me now, oh there's just an empty space
And there's nothing left here to remind me,
just the memory of your face"**
And you coming back to me is against all odds and that's what I've got to face
I wish I could just make you turn around,
turn around and see me cry
There's so much I need to say to you,"**
You're the only one who really knew me at all
So take a look at me now, well there's just an empty space
And there's nothing left here to remind me, just the memory of your face
Now take a look at me now, cos there's just an empty space"**
Take a good look at me now, cos I'll still be standing here
And you coming back to me is against all odds
It's the chance I've gotta take
Take a look at me now"**