Remember Me

Chapter 22

  Chapter 22

                ‘’I can’t send my best men now that the Kingdom is the most vulnerable,’’ Alexander exclaimed. Rose was trying to convince him it was the perfect time to send the troops outside the castle in search for lost and poor who were on brink of death. At first she demanded women, but soon changed her mind and asked for the others as well. Alexander was powerless under her conditions, paying the price. However, Rosalie had one more thing in exchange of the marriage.

                Messengers came back earlier than expected, carrying the news about Vilburn. According to their brief description, Darius, Waverly, May and her friend Lukas were on their way. Not many of the villagers came, but enough to make a difference. What Rosalie wanted to achieve was their trust and alliance, nothing more.

                ‘’You can and you will. Unless you want to break the engagement.’’

                ‘’No,’’ he quickly said, raising his hand, ‘’I will do it. Fifty men will leave within an hour. I have already arranged their horses and weapons.’’

                ‘’Perfect,’’ she replied, her attention drawn to the gown before her.

                ‘’I will leave you to dress, a Guard will come to inform you of your friends’ arrival.’’

                ‘’Alright. Do you need any help with decorating the hall and inviting guests? I know I rushed this, but I want this to be over as soon as possible.’’

                ‘’No, I have already arranged it.’’ His lips spread into a side grin as he watched her.

                ‘’Don’t you know grooms should not see their bride until the wedding itself? I found it strange that you invited me to your chamber and didn’t hide the dress.’’

                ‘’I don’t believe in curses, if you meant that. Besides, nothing bad can happen.’’ To me, she added in her thoughts. Alexander was another story. She found a perfect way to avenge without bloodshed, the way that will surprise every single soul in the Hall. By pretending to be a perfect happy bride, people will relax and cheer without suspicion she might try to do something.

                ‘’Well, I suppose you are right. Do not be late, love.’’

                He closed the door smirking, and she shook her head. Love? She wondered what has got into him, suddenly he was happier than ever before. She met with Caleb yesterday in the evening to make sure he wouldn’t feel uncomfortable. Laws of the Vallor Kingdom allowed an arranged marriage to be cancelled if both sides agree. With the ring off the finger, both were granted another chance. Caleb seemed calm, talking to her with no traces of anxiety. That led her to think he has had another woman in his life beside her. Still, she was happy he gave her his permission for the royal ceremony.

                Getting married in a Hall full of men didn’t sound very appealing. She had no friends or kinswoman to share the moment with except for Waverly and May. Alexander made sure fresh flowers will be brought into the hall and decorate walls and the ceiling. He wanted everyone to feel comfortable yet not outshine the bride. He picked his father’s clothes and brought them to a tailor who adapted it to his size and changed several details. Rosalie didn’t want to spend time thinking about a dress, so she scrimmaged through her drawers and found one she had never worn before.

                Satin ribbons and silver leaves decorated the front heart-shaped corset. The dress was longer than the others, falling in layers of soft silky material and shiny lace finish. Her arms had a special touch, small embellished sleeves from her armpit to elbow. A long piece of thin, almost transparent, fabric fell down to her ankles. The dark blue color reminded her of the sea, endless journeys and adventures through which she had to sail.