Dreaming the dream

 "We're friends with them now?" Alfie winced hard. When did this happen? Sure, he got along with Poppy's dad and he was glad Lynsey was safe, but no way did he want to have to be friends with Jory. How had that happened? Didn't Poppy remember Jory was her ex that she almost married?

He'd had such a heavy load of classes and he worked in the pharmacy at the drugstore too. Honestly, he was exhausted and barely had time for Poppy. 

"Let's face it, they are family," Poppy told him it would be summer soon and there were things to do.

"Like spring was really spring," Alfie shook his head. So much wind and not enough rain. They might as well be in the fire zone, and they were still in their little place too, but Poppy hadn't complained and he knew he shouldn't either. Finally, he gave her a hug. Yes, she was still with him even if nothing had been settled about a wedding. It just wasn't going to happen anytime soon.

"Did Lynsey mention when your dad and her might tie the knot?" He thought for sure it would have happened by now.

"I don't see it happening. I think they both know how hard marriage really is and they'd just soon not chance it," Poppy sighed. 

Alfie winced. "Wait, are you having second thoughts about us..."

She laughed at him. "You just wait," she smirked. "I'll find a way to get you to the church on time."

"Oh really," he looked at her blankly. "When's the last time you've been to a church?"

"You know, what I mean." They plopped down together and cozied on the couch. He was certain if they sat here long enough they'd both be asleep, but he had his arm around her and she was pressed against him comfortably.

"But..but the thing is, I'd like to be married in a church," Alfie said. "I sort of promised my grandmother."

"We aren't going all the way to Sweden to do that, are we?" Poppy turned her head to look at him.

Alfie just smiled with a sigh. He knew he'd never go back. "I know she grew up in a different time, but she always gave me good advice."