Chapter 1
Today is my wedding day and I barely know this man, yet I'm expected to be his wife in a matter of minutes until death do us part. I always knew this day would come but secretly I hoped it wouldn't. My dad has been standing nervously in the corner since I put on my mother's wedding dress which is really only a simple white dress made of cotton. My mother was a lady of the court born of noble blood which is the only reason I'm even allowed to marry the prince. My dowry is mere pennies so I know the only reason I was chosen is because of my blood. I always hoped that I would marry a boy from the village so I could have a simple life and be near my father but alas that wasn't meant to be. I know most girls from the village and even the town would kill to be in my shoes but I wasn't one of them. I never thought my bloodline would matter since my mother was disowned the day she ran away to be with my father. Suddenly my mother's family was coming out of the woodwork trying to latch onto me because of the fact that I was marrying Edward the prince of our small country. I did my best to avoid them but it didn't always work, like right now my aunts and cousins are brattling on and on about the ceremony and reception. I would have been content with a small ceremony with just my dad and our friends and friends. The room I'm standing in is all reds and greys like our monarchy colors and all I can think is I hope his home is not red. I've been standing here waiting anxiously for the clock to strike noon so I can get this dreadful day over with. It's time as I start walking towards a man I barely know toward a life I don't want all I can think is why me and why was I put on this path. I'm supposed to be in the village living a simple life and in love with my husband that was the path I wanted to walk but now here I stand next to man I only know as the future ruler our land. As he takes my hand I stiffen from his touch. He seems kind but his reputation is that of a monster.
"Bella? Bella?" I hear my name. The preacher must have said something.
"Yes" I croaked "Do you take this man to be you're lawfully wedded husband?"
I don't. "I do" Cheers erupted from the crowd.
"I now pronounce you husband and wife, you may kiss the bride". As Edward leans in to plant a kiss on my lips I close my eyes and pray that I won't bare an heir so he'll grant me a divorce in five years' time. His lips are as soft and smooth as velvet and I swoon just a little bit. More cheers erupt from the crowd and I zero in on my father's face with misty eyes.
