[ WP ] `` Now remember Johnny , whatever you do , do n't smile . ''

It was as if there were some thick lump of ice sitting in the back of my throat. I bit down had on my lips to keep a straight face, but the corner of my lips kept betraying my intentions at a moment's turn. 
 
 The woman before me kept her composure far better than I could. Her tanned face gazed steadily onwards. There was no shaking in her hands. No panic in her eyes. She was not smiling. `` She was calm, sophisticated, the shining example of cool-headedness. 
 
 I remember her words clearly. 
 
 `` Remember, Johnny. Do n't you smile. Whatever you do. Do not smile.'' 
 
 The church was dimmer than it was on most Sunday nights. I had arrived at a mere six in the afternoon, but already the candles that kept the place lit bright into night were ablaze. 
 
 The father turned to me and gave a knowing nod, reassuring me of our plans. He was a good man, that father. I was surprised when he agreed to help me out tonight. But, seeing him here, a familiar face in my current time, I'm glad enough to smile. 
 
 I remember her words again, clear as a clean pool of lakewater. 
 
 `` Do not smile.'' 
 
 Father began to speak. First to the woman before me, to the woman I know as Abigail, to make sure she would be certain of our deal. She said yes, with a face as grave and serious as death, with all the grace and pride of a queen. 
 
 Then, the father turned to me, to see if I was sure. First, I nodded. Then, she punched me. Then, I said yes. My lips turned white as my teeth bit down harder. My muscles ached to curve into the familiar feel of a joyful smile. I wanted to smile, more than anything. 
 
 `` Do not smile,'' said Abigail. 
 
 The words repeated into my ear. Father spoke a few words more. I could n't hold it back any longer. It was too late. There, I stood, in the darkness of a Sunday evening, smiling the luckiest son of a bitch in the world. 
 
 The woman before me saw her composure shatter. Her fair, strong arms shook ever so slightly. Her lips peeled back to make a face similar to mine. Her eyebrows defied the joy in her complexion, they showed irritation, incredulity, and furthermore, sheer dumbfoundery. 
 
 I took her close into my arms, my smile a nose distance away from her's. Father said his last words. 
 
 `` You may now kiss the bride.'' 
 
 As I closed my eyes and drew in closer, all I remembered was that she had been smiling. And I had been smiling too. 
 
 

