Ethan's Bride

The Reception

Chapter 2

Katherine.

I followed father (Andrew) into the large reception hall at the Locke residence. The past few weeks had been nerve racking to say the least. And now the day was finally here.

My stomach wouldn’t stop churning and I had not been able to hold down anything since the day began. Why was I so nervous? It was only a reception party and not the actual wedding.

My Father approached an older man and looking into those gray eyes, I recognized him to be Ethan’s father. Both of them shared the same coloring- both being bronzed. The two men shook hands and smiled at each other as if they were the best of friends. Well, I knew better. In the world of the rich and wealthy, such pretentious lifestyle was what was required.

After the grand exchange of pleasantries. The old man I was informed to be Stewart Locke scanned me from head to toe like I was a prized article on auction. Everything in this room made me uncomfortable. I needed to get some air.

‘‘ She’s much more beautiful in person, Andrew. Ethan would be delighted”. Stewart said with a smile.

‘‘I’m sure he will. My Katherine isn’t like every other girl. She’s my pride and joy”. Andrew said proudly.

‘‘ Well of course. Being a father to two daughters myself. I know how precious they are. Be rest assured that she’s going to be in good hands”.

As the two men talked business over me, I excused myself. Finding an open space with the least amount of guests, I leaned against the wall, closing my eyes. It was going to be okay. I was going to do a good job. My father would get better. Everything will be fine and I would get my revenge on Ethan.

I was so consumed by my thoughts, I didn’t hear footsteps that approached till a rough male voice I could recognize anywhere cut through my thoughts.

‘‘ Fancy seeing you here. This must be an upgrade from the type of crowd you are used to”.

Brown eyes clashed with gray ones. Not that I had planned it, but a staring match began between them.

He finally appeared. Ethan. Choosing to pretend I didn’t remember him, I flipped my hair to the side and smiled hugely at him while saying

‘‘ Sorry. I don’t understand what you mean. What do you mean the type of crowd I’m used to. And please have I met you before. I don’t remember ever meeting you”.

I raised one of my brows and loved the expression I saw on his face.

Then suddenly invading my space even more, Ethan took hold of my chin, he seized my lips, not caring that we most likely had an audience. Ethan brought his hands and took hold of my waist. I couldn’t deny how I was reacting to his kiss. Exactly the way she had that wonderful night.

As quickly as the kiss began, it ended. Before I had a chance to react or more like attack the bastard, a throat was cleared. We both turned to see our fathers staring at them both with dumbfounded expressions.

Quickly moving out of Ethan’s arms, I also cleared my throat and adjusted my clothing to look more presentable. The kiss I could handle, but the sudden burst of desire I felt when he kissed me shocked but also shamed me. I should hate him, not want him.

************

As everyone marched into the dinning hall for the evening meal. I also did so along with Ethan when our father’s called us together.

Stewart took both our hands and joined it together and presented it to the crowd who cheered. Once everywhere became silent. Stewart made his announcement

.

‘‘ We are pleased to announce the coming together of our beloved children who in a month’s time will be saying yes to each other in holy matrimony. And of course you are all invited”.

A month!!! My heart almost jumped out of my Chest. I knew what I had agreed to but seeing it about to come to fruition was another matter. With this announcement, it became more clear to me that there was no backing out now. I had gotten to the point of no return.