Page 89 of Something New

I lift it from the box and stand next to my bed, holding it out in front of me to take in the fine details and soft lace.

It is magnificent. Fit for a princess.

Standing in front of my closet mirror I hold it up against my body.

It’s perfect.

I just wish everything else was perfect too.

Then this dress wouldn’t be so heart breaking.

I hang the dress up on the side of my cupboard, but I find it too difficult to look at, so I carry it into the bathroom and hang it up on the back of the bathroom door. Even though it is out of sight I still can’t stop thinking about it though.

It’s like a flashing red light, demanding my attention, a silent alarm blaring in my mind.

What am I going to do?

CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN

Tuomo

The courier leaves my penthouse with the wedding dress wrapped in a thick silver ribbon.

It is no longer up to me to force her decision. I’ve done things that are unforgivable. I’ve taken a choice from her, purposefully putting her in a position that she never had a chance to think about or decide on.

What I did to her was evil.

I know that now.

I saw the look in her eyes, and it breaks me every single time I think it.

Closing the door behind the courier I walk back into my penthouse and sit down on the sofa, picking up the glass of whiskey I’ve poured for myself I take a sip. Then remember that I told Nerissa neither of us would drink during her pregnancy. It seems fair. Why should she have to give things up alone?

I put the drink back down again. My heart is heavy, and I want to numb the pain, but I can’t. This is something that needs to be faced, accepted and acknowledged in its fullest. Because I am theone who did this. I am the one who created this situation hurting both of us.

It’s Thursday. Two days until the wedding and two days until I find out if she will forgive me or not. I tried to keep the letter I wrote her short, but honest. Not wanting to drag out my side of things, but needing her to understand how deeply sorry I am.

Nerissa must be wanting to feel numb too. She must be struggling, alone, tired, emotional and drained from the pregnancy and the horror that I put her through.

She doesn’t even know I stopped her from getting a job. I’ve already retracted all the requests I made at all the attorneys. Should she want to apply there again they would accept her in a heartbeat? I imagine that a few of them will send her an email offering her a job. I was told she is the top candidate in many of the law firms.

Idon’t want her to need to work - but if shewantsto work - then I won’t take that choice away from her. I’m done taking her choices away.

Picking up my phone I check my messages from my brothers.

They have all received an invitation to the wedding. My father received one too, but he won’t be there - and I’m happier with it that way. But it would mean the world to me if my brothers attended.

Dalila is going to be there. She’s been helping me plan everything.

Honestly, I’ve never seen her this excited for me. Her happiness and high spirits have been keeping me going these past few days. She seems convinced that Nerissa will be there.

I, on the other hand, am not. But I am hopeful.

Masaccio has confirmed. He will be attending the wedding with his wife, Leora.

A message from Celso comes through while I’m reading Masaccio’s message.

Masaccio: I will be there. I am happy that you found a resolution that no longer upsets the balance of our family. I wish you the best and I’m looking forward to celebrating the moment with you. Don’t worry. She will show up.

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