Chapter Two: Cheers to a loveless marriage
Camille examined herself in the mirror in her costly white bridal gown. Her lovely reflection returned her gaze. Her black hair has been packed up in a stylish way. Her hazel eyes appear unsure of the situation she’s in. Her earrings and necklace sparkled drawing attention to her long oval face.
Unfortunately the panic racing through her veins was overwhelming that it almost choked her. Ever since she has been told about the contract marriage, she resisted the urge to cry but instead put a lid on her emotion, hating to show any signs of weakness as she has been taught. But she’s not sure she can keep it together today.
What’s more? Her parents are hesitant to tell her the main reason she’s getting married nor did they inform her of the details. All she knows is she’s to be a substitute wife to Theo Williams, who hasn’t shown his face ever since it has been announced between both families.
“You look perfect Cam.” Evelyn, Camille’s mom murmured, sadly smiling. On seeing the sad smile on her face, Camille’s panic shot through the roof. Small beads of sweat began to form on the back of her neck and forehead sending goosebumps all over her body. She could feel fresh tears threatening to spill but she sniffed back the unshed tears. She can’t afford to ruin her makeup.
Her mom, discerning her reaction, held her hand and said soothingly “it’s okay, Cam. It’s not the end of the world. After two years, you are free to divorce him or do whatever you want.”
Olivia, came into the room. Her hand clasped over her mouth and her eyes sparkled with astonishment. “You look lovely” she said gazing into Camille’s hazel eyes, which she inherited from her mom.
“Theo Williams is insane if he doesn’t treat you nicely after seeing you like this. Are you real or a doll?” She asked poking at Camille with her fingers. Camille knew her friend was attempting to make her feel better and it did help to some extent.
Camille smiled a bit. “You don’t look so bad yourself.”
“I’m here for you Camille.” She holds out her hand to Camille which she held onto grateful she had a friend to rely on.
“Let’s get this wedding over with.”
Her dad led her to the altar. She overheard People murmuring as she passed by whereas some gasped saying she’s pretty.
Everyone was seated and smiling at the newest couple in town. Camille finally laid eyes on Theo. Brown wavy hair slicked back and styled to perfection, strands of hair fell on his face highlighting the sharp outline of his face. His tuxedo must have cost a fortune. She looked at his watch. That’s a house he’s wearing on his wrist.
He was hot and she admits it. Her eyes met his gaze. Gray eyes that made him look….. she flinched and took a step back involuntarily. Cold eyes glared back at her like she was nothing.
“Are you done checking me out?”
“You’re not worth my time. So don’t worry.” She retorts back.
The priest coughed and cleared his throat reminding them both of his presence.
We are gathered today to witness this beautiful Union. The priest kept talking while the audience smiled.
“You may kiss.” That was enough to pull Camille out of her reverie.
They both glared at each other. Their feet firmly planted, not moving an inch towards each other. One could taste the tension and anxiety in the air. In that moment of realization, she absolutely despised Theo and could see where this marriage was heading. How small minded can he be?
Theo looked at the audience. His gaze was drawn to his grandma who had used emotional blackmail on him. He looked at her with accusing eyes and she nodded smiling. Her eyes winking and telling him, “do this for your grandma” which they both knew it’s an outright lie. It’s for business purposes.
“You may kiss.” He repeated for the second time.
Sighing, Theo held her face looking into her eyes and kissed her lightly. The kiss happened in an instant and it was over.
From Childhood, everything had been controlled and monitored by her parents which is why she had always imagined what her wedding would look like. Fairytale wedding was definitely the right word. She has been robbed of her fairytale wedding by her parents and he doesn’t have the decency to act right just for a day.
As they stepped down, people gathered congratulating them on their marriage and how they can’t wait for their beautiful kids.
Suddenly there was a loud scream. Both Camille and Theo glanced around to understand what was going on. Following the crowds gaze, they both noticed the audience staring past their heads to where the priest stood. A banner was hung up dripping with red liquid. She dare not think it’s blood. On it was wittten boldly, “I’M COMING FOR YOU. YOU KNOW YOURSELF.”
But then again isn’t this childish in a church of all places.? Probably for attention she concluded. Cam looked at her parents, her mom was visibly shaken whereas her dad somewhat calm. She then returned her gaze to Theo’s parents, and they both looked perfectly calm.
Luckily, Theo’s brother James went into action. He’s jovial and took the crowds attention with his jokes. He quickly explained it being a surprise with other excuses. Oddly enough, it worked or they decided to look past it and enjoy their day.
Guards were dispatched silently to secure the area so that the guests feel safe and have no fear.
Whoever this person is couldn’t let her have this day to herself. This wedding will be the talk of the century.
Camille notices Theo and his dad conversing out of the corner of her eye. When did he leave her side? She pondered. Done talking, he nodded gravely at his dad and stormed off. Wait, what? He’s leaving!
Camille tried to catch up with him to say something but her heels made it difficult for her to keep up. She tried speaking but her words came out in a whisper. Her throat felt tight with emotion as she tried to swallow past the lump.
He left without saying a word to her or even a glimpse in her direction. At least he should pretend checking up on her. She watched him approach his black Audi, turned on the ignition and zoomed off till she could only see the receding figure of his car.
How cruel of him. The tears she had buried for days refusing to let it out came streaming down her cheek in a fat droplets. She quickly wiped it off but it persisted. She can’t go in there looking like a mess.
Some women who love gossip and are always ready to hear the next gossip casted pity glances at her and chatted amongst themselves covering their mouth like they weren’t making it more obvious. With determination she held up her chin and walked with dignity as she made the decision to leave. She refuses to be the object of stares and pity. Her wedding day has been horrible.