The St Patrick Series Book #1: The St Patrick Bride

Chapter Two: Run Aways

Court's POV
I have never known permanence in my life. As far as I can recall, I move around a lot. Not being in one place for too long has it's advantages. It has opened up my mind because I have been exposed to many cultures. I see the world differently from most people who stay in one place their whole life. I have many beautiful experiences because of the exposure I have had. But there's also a low point when it comes to moving around often. I don't have roots. At least I didn't until I met Marianna at a boring party. We were both bored out of our minds and from then we started spending time together.

She's not the kind of person I would usually make friends with. Marianna is girly and not easy going. She's a little stuck up and spoilt. Two girls Who happen to be the only children of wealthy men and we did not turn out the same. But even with the things about her I don't like, she has grown on me and I have developed an attachment I can't end. I have found a measure of permanence in Italy because of her. I made a friend. I love her and I can't see us being separated just because daddy got a new assignment. Moving in with mom won't help because she's posted in New Zealand.

I have to help her out of her engagement. The problem is I'm a prisoner in this house. Daddy has made sure.

"How does it work?" I spoke earning my father's immediate attention.

"What are you asking me?" He smiled. He's happy I'm speaking to him. He has retained his Scottish accent through the years. No matter which language he speaks, he's still the tough Scot from Inverness.

After my escapades across Europe I came home to two pissed people. He was especially angry. He handed out his punishment -confinement to my bedroom for three weeks and no social life-  he stopped talking to me when I decided not to bother with him. My mother tried to make nice with me because one of them had to be a parent. I love them both but when they are pissed, they are the worst.

"How is your marriage to mom still holding together when you two barely spend time together?"

"We know what we mean to each other. We stay true to our vows."

"Still, relationships require communication."

"And we do communicate when we can. Why are you asking me questions? Are you looking to get married?" He laughed as he packed away some documents on the table.

"Marianna is being forced to marry a man she doesn't love. Did you marry for love?"

"Yes I married because I was in love with your mother. That is the reason why I won't be marrying you off without your consent."

"Then you believe people have free will in these things, right?" My eyes lit up with hope.

Before plan B is put in place, plan A has to be given a chance. I'm hoping that daddy can use his influence and charm on Don Giovanni so that my best friend doesn't have to get married.

"I see where this is going." He sighed. "Courtney Love, the affairs of a family are their own. If that is how Don Giovanni wants to do things, it's up to him and not in our place to meddle."

It looks like it's going to be plan B; snatch and grab the bride to be. I offered him a fleeting smile. "I didn't want to agree with you but you're right. I won't meddle. Is it alright if I go out tonight?"

"No."

"If you're dragging me away from my friend and Italy then let me go out and have some fun before-"

"Courtney Love, every time you leave through that door, I'm never sure if I'll see you again. Your last adventure had us worried sick. You were gone for a month!"

"I called."

"Once! You called once!" He raised his voice. "You're never leaving like that again."

"Then let me stay in Italy! Don't you get it? I don't want to leave. If you keep forcing me, I'll leave but not with you!"