Romani Prince

Chapter 39: It's Today

"Wake up, Gaby! You're getting married today!"

I place my forearm over my eyes and let out a small groan.

My body is missing the warmth and touch of another, but when I turn to reach for him, there is only empty space behind me... and a golden rose laying on his pillow.

I pick it up, knowing very well that Luka stole it from a certain neighbor that is obsessed with his roses.

"How romantic! I've never seen a rose with this color, before."

Touching the perfect rose to my nose, I giggle softly at his adorable and mischievous gift.

God! I love you so much, Luka!

"It's already nine! We need to get nails, hair, and makeup done. Are Mina and Miriam meeting us at the salon?"

Like a romantic fool with a silly grin on my lips, I don't move from under the covers. The golden rose still stuck to my nose while dreaming awake and staring at the ceiling.

"Are you listening, Gaby? Up! Let's go, princess!"

Camille yanks my covers away. She is trying hard to sound mad but can't help to giggle at the same time.

"Alright! Alright!" I am forced to finally get up and run into the bathroom.

My smile grows even bigger if that is any possible, when I find the words... "Today, you'll be my wife" scribbled on the mirror with my red lipstick.

Dreaming awake of Luka, I take a long shower, using my homemade body scrub, made with honey and sugar. It always leaves my skin extra soft.

My feet are a bit sore from dancing all night with Luka, the girls, and Mike. A bunch of other friends also showed up last night to celebrate. All ecstatic for Luka and me.

Mike gave us last night as his wedding gift, with a limo, dinner, two different nightclubs with VIP service, and lots of champagne.

We didn't want to have the usual separate bachelor and bachelorette party. And it was so good to have a worry-free night, being our young and vibrant selves with no drama.

We danced and laughed in such an incredibly epic night that we will never forget.

And today... I am getting married to the love of my life.

When I follow an extremely excited and chatty Camille to the kitchen, we find my mother sitting in her favorite chair, in the living room.

Camille shuts up immediately. She grabs my hand, watching me with pleading eyes.

I nod slightly, letting her know that I am not looking for another confrontation, today.

Reluctantly, Camille gives my hand one last squeeze and leaves the room.

Mother and I stare at each other for a long moment.

With long and controlled breaths, I step forward and kneel in front of her.

"Today is a very special day for me, mother."

As stern as ever, she barely moves an inch. "I've heard."

Her raspy tone of voice feels like a slap to my face.

"I bet you're happy that your father is dead, aren't you? No one can keep you from fornicating with that nasty boy, anymore! Don't you think I know what happens in my own house? Shame on you!"

And now I understand why Camille didn't want me to talk to her.

"If only I was as strong as your father, I would have kicked you out of this house! I don't want him here!"