To Be Loved

34 - Haven

Last night was great... besides the fact that I was scribbled on with my own lipstick.

Today, all Mom and I had been doing was getting ready for the wedding. I picked out a dress to wear to the dinner, and surprisingly, Mom didn't rush in to pick for me. I was thankful for that. I noticed that lately she had been much more agreeable than normal.

So I took my chances and asked for one more thing. "Mom? Do you think Brookes could give me away tomorrow?"

She looked at me, as if she wasn't expecting the question. "As much as that would make Brookes happy, I don't think that's wise. Your father would be disappointed to hear that you don't want him by your side when you walk down the aisle."

"He doesn't care about me." I scoffed.

"Watch your tongue. Your father may be difficult to deal with at times, but he is still your father."

"Difficult is an understatement." I mumbled and turned away.

I heard Mother huff and harshly place the dress she was holding down. "I know you don't particularly like your father and I right now, but what you will do is respect us."

"Why? The two of you don't respect me! I'm just the puppet you two use to help the kingdom... for your benefit. What is this all for anyways?"

"This marriage is a way of creating a stronger country. With James' kingdom in a relationship with ours, we can have stronger ties to other countries they may have ties to. You already know this Haven, and I expect better from you. Obviously all you know how to do is whine like a child." A pause. "And you never did apologize for the slap you graciously gifted me."

I rolled my eyes at her sarcasm. "Don't expect one anytime soon."

I walked past her and to where my dress was laid out. It was a knee-length, white dress. It had long lace sleeves and a plunging neckline.

Drew walked in. "Do you need help, Hav- I mean Your Highness?"

I smiled at her. "Yes, would you help me get ready for tonight?" I looked at my mom, "And do you mind leaving us?"

Her signature smile appeared on her face, clearly hiding the annoyance that was shown only seconds ago. "Not at all."

She left the room and Drew helped me get ready. I couldn't help but let the corners of my lips twitch into a smile. Even if I had to marry James, I was going to make sure Mother and Father knew how much I hated them for it. And I didn't care how much of a snob I am/would be.

We had just finished the rehearsal wedding at the chapel, and were currently sitting in the formal dining room where we were eating our meals and celebrating.

To avoid arguments, I kept my mouth closed and focused on the good in my life. But all I could think about was Ashton. He was the only good in my life... except for my brothers and Annalise. Everytime I thought of him, my chest tightened and I felt as if I couldn't speak. I would much rather be walking down the aisle to him. Not James.

I put another spoonful of soup in my mouth, but almost spit it out when I heard:

"Somethings wrong!" One of the maids- Fiona- yelled. "Brookes! He- He-"

And that's all it took for me to be out of my seat and sprinting to Brookes' run. The others following close behind.

"Get the doctor!" I screamed at anyone who was listening.

I slammed open the door to see an out of breath Brookes. He was grabbing at his throat as if he couldn't breathe. Blood stained the sheets from where he had coughed it up. His face was pale and sweaty. His body- skinny.