Paint me Eclipsed (Book 3, Finale)

Chapter 2- Not What He Seems

"I don't understand your concern over this." Alice scoffed as I was pacing back and forth behind my house.

After the big announcement there was cause for celebration for sure. Everyone had sat down for tea and practically welcomed this James into the family. However after the last few nights of nightmares and that awful dizziness every time I looked at the guy, concern overwhelmed me.

"I just... Alice how long have you known this man?"

A sound that was mixed with a laugh and a scoff escaped her lips as she threw her hands up in disbelief.
"Oh like your one to talk!"

"That's different." I said pointing a finger at her "You knew Tarrant when I met him. I'm just a smidge concerned that the last time you visited me was years ago, but the next time you do you bring a man into my home, whos never been here!"

I peaked around the corner to see everyone at the table. The strange man was seated next to Tarrant in my place, cause I ordered him to keep an eye on him. Seems like everyone had fallen back into peace over this, while James was looking around in awe at the land he was in.

"In my defense it's only been about four years since I last visited. I imagine it's been longer for you."

I sighed turning to her
"I'm sorry. I've just been over paranoid lately I haven't gotten much sleep."

Alice came over to me and gave me a hug
"I've missed you so much. Mother loves him. And well I do too. Funny enough he actually use to work for Haymitch and Sebastian."

I pulled away raising a brow.
"Those wank biscuits? You can't be serious."

"Oh don't give me that look. It's not like that he hated it there. When my mother and I started our business, well James followed and we fell in love. And I knew before I married him I wanted him to come here and meet the women that I owe everything too."

I crossed my arms avoiding her gaze.
"Flattery won't always win me over you know."

Alice laughed and rested her hands on my shoulders
"Is it at least working?"

________________________

With our arms linked we decided to join the family and everyone looked towards us in concern. I think everyone could tell I was a little shocked by this news. I ignored them and walked over to our new guest, ignoring the nausea that was building in my stomach as I approached.

"James." I spoke confidently causing him to stand up. He was a few inches taller then me and looked down at me nervously.

I stuck out my hand
"It's very nice to meet you and I am excited to get to know you. My name is Andromeda."

His hand was strong in mine and suddenly I felt my legs wobble and my hand started to pulse a white color.
"Annie. I've heard so much about you. My name is James."

I was staring down at our hands in concern and quickly pulled away.

"Well then James, Alice how about you tell us how you met?" My mother interrupted to avoid question on my strange behavior.

Tarrant came over with another seat, and sat me opposite of him away from James. I sat down shakingly. Suddenly my son ran up to me.

"Mom, you promised I could invite Victor today, and I forgot to get him from his fathers blacksmith shop. Can I go now?"

I smiled despite myself and ruffled his hair
"Yes but hurry now, don't want to keep your family waiting."

"Can I go too?" Asked Quilla