Chapter 3: Till Death Do Us Part
1298 Words
The sun poured a soft glow over the beautifully decorated European chapel that stood on the resort grounds. It was indeed a beautiful but uneasy day for me as I stood in my wedding dress, about to be given away to a cruel man. “Marriage was supposed to be for love. Why am I so unlucky in life” I cursed under my breath.
I was dressed in a white sleeveless wedding gown, which was unadorned and not particularly elegant. It was covered in layers of gauze and was devoid of jewels or diamonds. But it did feature a carefully hand-embroidered design that made the garment seem quite sophisticated. With subtle beauty, it clung to my curves, showcasing my shape in a way that was both innocent and breathtaking. It was not the perfect wedding dress, but I loved it.
I nervously pressed my small lips which were softly painted in a natural rose color as I glanced towards the door for the hundredth and one time, but they remained shot. I didn’t care if the remained shot, after all, I was about to be married off against my wish. But I was still concerned, I was the one who would be humiliated if he refused to show up.
“Why is he late for his wedding? Who comes late for his wedding? Not even a single member of his family is here. Or have they changed their minds? I pondered.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t the only curious person. My father stood frozen, his face was pale as though he had just seen a ghost. I could hear his heart pounding in his chest, no one from the Calloways family had arrived. I knew that feeling, it was a nightmare, and for a moment, I felt pity for him.
"I heard Robert is ruthless, the kind of man who doesn’t care about others’ feelings," one woman remarked, her voice just loud enough for me to hear.
"Maybe he won’t show at all,” someone murmured nearby, a hint of amusement in her voice. “Everyone knows Robert Calloway is ruthless.”
"If he doesn’t show up, it wouldn’t be the first time he’s left someone high and dry.” the woman beside her giggled in reply.
Murmurs began to ripple through the crowd. Friends of the Calloways exchanged knowing glances, and a few smirking whispers reached my ears and certainly, my father's ears too. This made me very uncomfortable and I felt my stomach twist. “If only you all knew that this wedding was never my idea” I murmured.
“What's taking your groom so long?” Linda said "Or did he forget his wedding? Oh poor thing, you'll be left stranded on the altar. “Hahaha," she laughed softly.
Does it hurt? Ohh, my dear Elena, I feel your pain” Linda mocked and chuckled from behind me. It was so embarrassing and I just wanted to disappear. I clenched my hands together, my gaze falling to the floor as the whispers tightened around me like a suffocating veil.
Just when I thought he wouldn't show up, the chapel door suddenly flung open with a firm sweep.
Robert Calloway entered the room, his imposing presence led all gaze on him. “He's finally here," my father said, letting out a sigh of relief and in what seemed like a minute, he regained his composure.
Robert strode down the aisle with a confidence that was almost palpable and his steps were measured and unhurried. At nearly six and a half feet, he stood tall above everyone in the room. The perfectly fitted black suit, which clung to his broad shoulders and small waist, showed off his athletic form.
Jaws dropped and the hall fell silent, so silent that if a pin had fallen at that instance you'd hear every sound it made. A subtle murmur of admiration — and perhaps a little fear — hummed through the crowd as he walked towards me. As he stood in front of me, the flower in my hands almost fell to the ground, I couldn't get my eyes off him, he was incredibly gorgeous and breathtaking. He had a sharp jawline that was just slightly softened by a trace of stubble, giving him an aura of elegance, and his dark hair was neatly styled.
“Wait a minute, is this not the guy I saw a few days back at my father’s house? Damn! He looks so perfect," I muttered and blushed a little.
Robert's gray-shaded eyes scanned the room briefly before landing on me, his expression was unreadable. And my cheeks flushed under his intense gaze.
––– Robert’s Pov
My mouth, set in a firm line softened as I took in the delicate beauty of the young lady standing in front of me. She was so striking that I was unable to turn away. For a moment, I felt my defenses let down as my first glance turned into something more gentle. This wasn’t the woman I’d expected to find waiting. Her beauty was intriguing, and I couldn't help but fix my gaze on her.
I took a few more steps, my eyes never leaving her, and I stopped in front of her with a slight, respectful bow. For a moment, it was as if the entire room vanished, leaving just the two of us suspended in a silent exchange.
A faint smile played on my lips as I extended my right hand, my voice a murmur meant only for her. “Sorry to keep you waiting. Let's get over with this, shall we?”
I saw her perfect lips part ways a bit, and I think she tried to say something but the words never came out, she smiled faintly and slipped her trembling hand into mine.
“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Robert Calloway and Elena Aston. Two souls joining in matrimony, promising to walk together through life’s joys and tribulations, as one.” The officiant said, breaking the silence.
I stared at the lady before me briefly, and she stared back with an uncertain glance. Despite the beautiful words, an awkwardness lingered between us. All I could think about was, who she truly was beneath her beauty. I hadn't expected to be
Getting married soon, let alone an arranged marriage, so this right here, was a puzzle.
“Marriage is a sacred bond, a promise of loyalty, companionship, and love. And now, Robert and Elena will exchange vows as they begin this journey together.”
My assistant handed me a ring and slowly, I lifted the ring toward her already lifted fingers. I was about to say my vows but something was missing; her name. I had completely forgotten her name. “Jeez, this is so embarrassing,” I thought to myself.
“What's your name again?" I whispered, trying so hard not to draw attention.
“Elena" she responded, looking disappointed.
“Elena, I promise to support, respect, and take the best possible care of you. In the face of whatever lies ahead, till death do us part. Take this ring, as a sign of my love and fidelity, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” I said as I slipped the ring onto her slim soft finger.
A ring was also handed over to Elena. Already feeling disappointed and with an expressionless face she repeated her vows.
The officiant gave a slight nod, his expression softened by the sincerity in our words.
“I now pronounce you husband and wife. May your union be blessed, and may you find strength in each other. You may now kiss the bride”
“Kiss the bride? Is that necessary?”
- Writer
