An Illicit Romance

Special Moments

Special Moments

Daniel’s POV

For the past few days, everyone was busy with wedding plans. Rose and I had agreed to keep our distance so Annabelle wouldn’t get too suspicious. It was working but I’d started to regret our agreement. Everytime I saw her I wanted to kiss her, caress her and just be with her. My will power was astounding. Every now and then we’d see each other, even if it was only for a few minutes. Soon, all of that would be over. We could finally be together, just the two of us. It was only a matter of when.

Talk of the wedding filled the town. Even the country. I couldn’t walk through town without seeing a newspaper with mine and Melanie’s name printed in bold.

Harry, the family driver, was leaning against his car smoking. I’d known him since I was a child and I realised that if I could talk to anyone about this, he would be the one to go to.

“Daniel, my boy!” He exclaimed. He ran a hand through his greying hair. “It’s been a long time since we’d had a chat.” He said, in his cockney way of speech. He’d always been like a mentor to me. Come to think of it, he was more like a father than my real one was.

“It has been a while, my fault entirely-“

“No need to apologise,” He flicked the cigarette away, knowing I’d disapprove. “I’m sure you’ve been busy these days, what with the wedding and all.”

“The wedding, of course.” I said trying to hide my feelings about the whole thing.

“You’re not so keen on this wedding, are you?” He asked, noticing my expression. I didn’t answer. “Don’t blame you. That Melanie looks like a right piece of work.”

“You’re right about that-“my voice faded as soon as I caught sight of Rose. She smiled slightly when she saw me and I couldn’t help but smile back. I forgot Harry was there until he nudged me.

“Your mum won’t be happy with your, er, flirting with the help there.”

“I’m not flirting with anyone. I can’t smile at people without arising suspicion?”

“Be my guest but, you’re getting married in a few weeks to-“

“Yes, to Melanie, I know. Why is it everyone’s job to remind me?” I turned away.

“I didn’t mean to cross a line, Daniel. Is there something you’re not telling me?” he asked.

I sighed. He wouldn’t say anything to anyone. He’s not the type to. But I still didn’t know how he’d feel about this.

“Harry, I need your help.”

“What is it now?” he joked. He stopped laughing when he saw the expression on my face.

“I’m not joking, Harry. This wedding business is-“

“Too much to handle?”

“That too.”

“It’s best to avoid arguing, Daniel, especially with that mother of yours. She wants what’s best for you, that’s all.” His hand was on my shoulder. I smiled at his attempts but I couldn’t bring myself to tell him. I knew he would have to know eventually.

“Harry. If I needed a favour from you, whatever it was, would you do it?”

“Where’s this going?”

“Please answer the question.”

“Well, sure. When have I not done favours for you?!” he laughed. I laughed with him. It felt good to have a decent conversation about something unrelated to the wedding. “Good, because I think I’m going to need your help sooner or later.”