Thanks to Lily Moonlight, LordXeentheGreat, Moody Grouch, GothCatholic and Russia () for your reviews!
This is my version of how it could have gone for Rosalie, a character created by Stephanie Meyer.
Chapter 8: Possibilities
My mind was in high gear. None of my things were here. I would have to go home to get toiletries and enough clothing for a week away. Maybe I could just disappear. That sounded like a viable and painless solution to me. But, my mother was in on the conspiracy. She had already packed a bag for me.
My entourage soon returned to help me and the fussing ensued. When the veil was off and the buttons of the dress were finally undone my attendants turned their backs so I could dress. I was grateful, that way I could shimmy into my clothes without anyone seeing my wrists.
My mom had laid out a brand new, feminine, two-piece pantsuit with a cardigan with brass buttons and a simple blouse. Its hues were warm browns and greens. The pattern and expensive fabric screamed designer-wear. No doubt part of the fee for marrying the beautiful Rosalie. The stylish but practical shoes matched the green of the sweater perfectly.
As I hadn't known a trip was planned, I hadn't determined what I would do with my hair. It was already up, curls softly cascading around my face. I left it like that, mostly because I didn't really care. My mom thrust the suitcase in my hands and practically pushed me out the door. I couldn't imagine why she was in such a hurry.
As I walked out of the room, the realization cut me in half. It was like a joke and I was the punchline. The entire wedding party was waiting in the foyer of the grand King estate. Every bit of blood rushed to my cheeks, my eyes wounded with embarrassment. The men were smirking and elbowing Royce, wishing they were in his place. My desire to flee took over as I turned to go back in the room. But my mother had already closed the door, her expression almost daring me to try to get past her. I vowed to never speak to her again.
I still had the shocked look on my face as I met Vera's gaze. Her countenance mirrored mine. To the both of us, this gathering of the guests seemed an unnatural and very public send off. She was horrified. We locked eyes. In that prolonged moment I was able to convey everything. I let her know I always loved her - and that there would be no happy ending.
There was nothing either of us could do, I turned, donning my fake smile, and, like a courtesan, daintily walked down the stairs. Royce was waiting; unable to hide his glee in seeing me so rattled. But when he turned to the crowd, he had mustered a bit of a blush himself. I was repelled at his ability to turn emotions on and off at will. His parents were beaming. He had passed the test; a test engineered by parents of 'proper breeding'. They would rest assured the family fortune would be safe with him and his new pretty bride.
We walked out onto the quiet grounds alone. I thought I couldn't wait to get out of that raucous room, but now I was alone with Royce, facing the unknown. I realized just how imagined my bluster had been. Royce could kill me with very little effort. I was sure of that. And if he had help, it would take only seconds. A quick end would be compassionate; I knew I couldn't hope for that.
Neither of us could be sure we weren't still being watched, so he kept up his impeccable charm.
He bent into a deep bow in front of me, "your chariot – or should I say 1931 Cadillac V8 – nothing is too good for my Rosie." His tone soured as he spoke my name. He reached for my hand.
I was weighing my options. Did I really have to get in the car? Then I heard a dark chuckle rooting me in my spot.
"Ah Rose" Royce cooed, "shall I carry you?"
My lack of motion answered the question. Again with ease, he lifted me off my feet and with mock tenderness placed me in the car and shut the door. He then turned and waved at the house as he moved to his side of the car. I was certain I heard cheers echoing from the well-lit manor.
"Farewell" I murmured under my breath with finality. I laid my head back and closed my eyes as the car rumbled to life.
I love reviews! Let me know what you are thinking!