Prologue
10:08 AM | Posted by
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I can do this. I can do this...
The dress looks beautiful. Looking in the mirror is like looking at a stranger.
Stop being so dramatic. Jack needs you.
The knock on the door is Father telling me it is time to go. He looks proud.
I draw out each step down the stairs as long as possible but all too soon I am standing outside looking at the Bentley that is to take me to my wedding.
I remember conversations of the night before.
Conversations with James. His words still ring in my ears as I look at the Bentley. The hurt in his eyes. The lies I had to tell.
He will get over it. He has to.
I know I am kidding myself.
I step out of the Bentley now and it feels like I am moving underwater.
Cameras flash.
Father takes my hand.
His face is smiling, but his eyes are not.
I still cannot believe it is actually coming to this! But now something else is wrong.
I wave at the black spots that are floating in front of me.
I cannot breathe.
I whisper to Father as he all but drags me into the church.
He sites me down but still says nothing.
This dress weighs too much.
Crushing my chest.
I manage a deep breath.
The spots vanish and I hear the music.
The doors open.
Everyone is standing.
My body is a machine.
I step forward.
Not everyone is here to celebrate. I see some people whispering. Others sneer. Mother sits in the front row with Jack. He looks even more fragile now. Even though he knows he will finally get the treatment he needs to get better. All thanks to my husband-to-be. William stands tall and gives me the once over and a nod of acceptance.
I do not remember hearing a word until the vicar speak the words “…why this union should be not granted. Speak now…”
A commotion breaks out and a small man at the back is being escorted out shouting “This union is a fraud! She is not of the Faith!”
Another stranger on the other side of the room echoes the small man’s accusations. The vicar looks at the men, the crowd and then at me.
“Child, have you been baptized?”
I nod. As no words come forth, it is not entirely a lie.
Addressing my accusers, the vicar calmly speaks. “I see no reason why this union should not be made. By the power invested…”
He never finishes. For a voice, a familiar voice, speaks clearly and evenly. It reaches all corners of the church.
“She does not love him.”
James’ face is my last sight as the room blurs and goes black. I collapse to the floor.
