I think that my silence begins to worry my parents and also agitate Gideon. Even Arthur looks surprised that I haven't said no to the proposal as yet. There are so many things that could go wrong when I said no, and I wasn't sure that I was willing to let that happen.
"You do not have to rush this decision, Gabriella, " my mother promises me. "We only just found you back; we don't want to give you away if you don't want to leave."
Even though she's saying this to me, Gideon's eyes are saying something entirely different.
"I would like some time to think about this some more before I come to a decision," I tell her. "Will you please excuse me? I suddenly have a headache and think that it's wise of me to get some rest."
I say good night to everyone and turn away. As I begin to walk away,
