In the days after the, well, non-existent wedding, Edward released a statement of postponement. While it provoked rumours and gossip, in court and media alike, we never confirmed nor denied anything. Julian returned to his estate in Lancaster for a period of seclusion, as he put it, though we both knew he was spending the time trying to persuade his Mother — or overrule her — into allowing him to marry the woman he wanted, not the woman he was pushed towards. I admired him for his determination, I really did.
I had sorted my situations with Julian, Mother, even Edward had become more lenient towards my request. The media, not so much. Rumours continued to circulate and everyday there was a new headline about me and my apparent 'rekindling' with Josh. They were all true, but they didn't need to know that.
"When do you wish to marry him, Matilda?" Edward spoke up, taking my attention away from my thoughts. I pondered on his words, hesitant to answer.
"When I can." I replied, trying to portray myself as confidently and astutely as possible. He rolled his eyes in annoyance,
"That's not a date." He sat opposite me, the other end of the table. It was early in the morning and Mother hadn't woken yet, leaving it to just be me and Edward. There was quite the lack of conversation, I had to admit.
"Well, when do you expect me to say, Edward? I'd marry him tomorrow if it was possible but we both know I can't."
He paused, thinking about it. He shook his head, dismissing my claims. "Mother mentioned that if you did it.. quietly, somewhere away from here and all the media, you could do it when you like."
I could feel my heart rate increase with sheer excitement at the prospect. "Like Gretna Green?"
"No, Matilda. You're not marrying at Gretna Green." Edward scoffed. "There is a small church near Ashbourne. You'd need to organise it all but it's quiet secluded. Private. You could go onto the Father's old cottage in the highlands."
"That would be nice, but I don't want a big wedding, Edward. We've always known that." I chuckled. He arched a brow, questioning my comment.
"The spending cost of your wedding to Julian says otherwise."
I ignored his comment, taking out my phone to let Josh know of the development.
Edward says we could marry at a church near Ashbourne. It'd be small and very very secluded but it would avoid scandal, which is the main thing at the minute. Don't think me looking like some infidel whore in the press is entirely a good idea. I've got a shit enough reputation as it is without adding to the list of sins I've committed.
When?
Whenever, I think. It'd be a while before Edward publicly announces the marriage, though. When do you want to do it?
Now.
Realistically, Josh. Don't you want anyone there?
I only need you.
Well, in terms of praticality, we need witnesses.
Oh shit, yeah. Who were you thinking?
Well, I can think of a girl who would be eager to see my wedding and wouldn't spill the beans. Can you think of anyone you want there?
I can think of a few lads.. ;)
Good. Are you serious about this, Josh? You know what it'll mean for you.
