VINDICTIVE

Episode 3

My long flowing white gown, clingy in all the right places. Elegant roses wrapped in lacy white fabrics. Warm candles all around in glass vases. And my father, walking me proudly down the aisle to the man of my dreams. My fingers fidgeted with the ring as reality set in. Right now I'm sure, he is more likely to be taken to prison for murder charges than walk me down that aisle. Never thought I'd have to do that part alone.

Glancing back, Liam was still talking with the driver. “Guess it could be worse.” I sighed. It's not like I'm really alone. If he can't accept the man I love, then that's fine.

That is. Perfectly. Fine. “Don't need him anyway.”

Filling my lungs with another wash of salty air, I cleared my racing mind.

“Boo!” Hands grabbed at my sides, tickling. Ripping a squeal from me. Arms flailing, I tried to escape. “S-Sto-stop!” I cried, laughing uncontrollably. He stopped just as my eyes began to water. Finishing with an apologetic kiss on the cheek.

“Close your eyes.” Raising a brow I closed them as instructed. What an i***t.

What sounded like plastic rolling along the concrete came from my side. Stopping just in front of me, followed by three more. Of course, I'd have to be crazy to not recognize that familiar sound. Heart bouncing eagerly, my curiosity peaked.

Maybe I can just take a small-

“Ah, ah no peeking.” He scolded, making me giggle. The sound of crinkling paper pulled at my curiosity again. “What is it? Common.” His voice was strained as if pulling on something that was stuck. “Just, one more.” Mere seconds passed before my groaning escaped. “Ugh, Liam!”

“Ok.” Some last rustling sounds came from him before I opened my eyes. Around him were four large red suitcases. Beautifully decorated in golden roses. Spaced and arranged in a half-circle. He had put on a dress jacket over his shirt and matching black leather shoes. But in his hand offered to me was the most curious item of all, two tickets. I took them hesitantly. “What are these?”

“Prepare yourself for the coolest, most romantic cruise you've ever been on.” Looking up I had no answer. Having received no reaction he continued. “I booked us a four-day Halloween themed cruise to elope on.”

My heart stopped. “Elope?”

“Well, you didn't think the ol’ V man wouldn't have a backup plan did you?” No way he's serious.

“We can't elope. They may be crazy but I would like someone I know at our wedding, Liam.” Looking nervous, he placed his hands on my shoulders. “But you will. I'll be there, won't I? You're all I need, am I not enough for you?”

Oh, those eyes… “You know that's not what I mean I just-” Hold on, one damn minute. “Did you say Halloween themed?” I groaned. Hoping I merely heard him wrong, I pinched the bridge of my nose. Anxiously he scratched at his head.

“Well, they were the only ones leaving today with space available. And with Halloween this Friday…” Looking up, I made sure to look as unapproving as possible but he pretended not to notice.

“Plus I contacted the captain and he said he would marry us as a special event aboard the ship in front of everyone. It's going to be amazing, Jules. I'll make sure of it.” Biting my lip, I stared at the concrete. “I dunno.” Sensing the cracks in my rejection, he continued to peck away.

“Just trust me, I promise you. It'll be everything you ever dreamed and more. ”

Not everything. Turning from him, I huddled into my jacket. The clouds rumbling above.

“But what about-“

“It's planned.”

“But I don't have a-”

“In your bag.”

“But how about-”

“It's all taken care of.”

My god. He's serious.

Quickly he checked his watch again, sucking in a sharp breath. “Oh geez. If we're gonna make it In time we need to get moving, princess” “Well, hey wait a second-”

Grabbing the bags, Liam rushed to load them before I could protest any further. Releasing an audible sigh I saw no other choice but to go along. Especially now that drops have begun to fall. Once at the car, I tried to see who was driving but the windows are so dark I can't help but consider if it's even legal. Even from just a few feet away, I can't see inside.I've seen all of Liam's guards and drivers before, so why is this one hiding?It feels very unnerving, for lack of a better word. But if I could just see who it is. Leaning in closer, an arm cut me off.

“Here, allow me.” Like the gentleman he is, Liam opened the door. “Oh, Thank you” Ducking my head in, I nearly caught a glimpse of a face but the driver turned away as if ashamed. Surely though he must know who I am. “Hello.”

With no answer, I cleared my throat. Trying a little louder. “Hello?” To my shock, a black divider raised between us, cutting me off.

The passenger door slammed shut as Liam shuffled in beside me. “Alright then, let's head out” With two soft taps on the divider, we were on our way. Leaning into him, I lowered my voice. Feeling strangely self-conscious.

“Who is that guy? Why won't he talk to me?” Tilting his head, Liam seemed confused. “Oh, Malcolm? He's just quiet. Been with my family for years. He's actually the only one who was willing to help me so last minute. Especially after today's... fiasco back there.”

Every so slightly I relaxed. I guess that makes sense. Still gives me a weird feeling. But I could just be paranoid after today's events. “I can't believe we're doing this.” I sighed. Liam looked at me sadly.

“You still want to get married don't you?”

With a frustrated sigh, I dropped my head in my hands. “Of course I do. I just never thought it would be like this. My father hates me and you. My mother won't be there. I don't get any bridesmaids or a bridal shower...” His hand rubbed my back.