Capsized By You

Chapter 3a

Marissa

The whole day went like a blur; Marissa was there physically but not mentally. She was like a doll as the hairstylist and makeup artist got her ready. She didn't pick the dress; her mother did, just like her hair, makeup, and nails. Marissa adored her natural hair and curly texture, but she chose the faux locs to separate herself from her sisters and mother. Over the years, she carved out her own identity apart from her family and name. The same reason why she applied for the financial manager position at the new orphanage in secret.

Her lungs started to collapse in her chest when they said it was time to get into the dress. She looked around the room, the same one she, Caleb, and Lizzy were taught about God and his loving and forgiving ways. She looked into the mirror and wondered who this person was? Who was she? Marissa hasn't seen this woman in a while, not since she cast her off so many years ago.

"Ma'am, it's time," the woman said.

"Give me a minute," Marissa said, taking slow deep breaths.

"Wait outside, please. We'll call for you," Lizzy said, sipping on her flute of champagne, "What's goin'?"

"I can't breathe," Marissa said, holding her stomach.

"That's normal, cold feet. I remember my wedding day; I was terrified," Lizzy said, coming up behind her, "It's okay."

"You have known Caleb since we came out of the womb. This is different," Marissa said.

"Is it? I saw how he watched you during the meeting and besides you all, but dropped your eyes on the table when you saw him. You knew him, slut," Lizzy said, laughing.

"I didn't know, and then—he was there, but that's not the point. Who will he be years from now?"

"Who will you be years from now? None of us know the future," Lizzy said, "Take a chance."

Marissa knew what Lizzy was saying, but it didn't make her feel better. If she could, she would climb out the window and just drive. There was no backing out now, and she didn't want to let her father down or their people. This would bring real peace among them all, a unified front.

Marissa sighed, "Where's that ugly dress?"

It took the three of them to stuff her in the killer material. The lace itched everywhere, but she was happy about how it was cut. It showed off her ink in a beautiful way; her exposed back featured a large pair of wings. The front was nothing but tendrils, each representing a kid that died in the first attack years ago. Each one she couldn't save that day.

The pianist played her cue; Lizzy flipped her veil and handed her the bouquet. It was the longest walk of her life going down the aisle. Levi waited at the end in a black tuxedo with a few men behind him wearing the same attire. His expression was cold and neutral, like at the meeting.

The pastor started the ceremony without delay. They both said the traditional vows, and when it came time for the kiss. Levi lifted her veil and stared at her for a moment, then leaned in, giving her a quick, chaste kiss. The crowd clapped, and they exited the doors as husband and wife.

The ride to the reception was quiet, much like it was to the hotel, but even then, he said more.

"When do you set sail again," Marissa asked, trying to break the ice.

"We set sail tonight," he said, looking up from his phone.

"I'm staying behind. I'm trying to get this position at the new orphanage in New Hope. I'll probably be at my parent's until I find a place. So, when you come back to town, we'll have our privacy," Marissa said, meeting his gaze.