Page 58 of Bittersweet Legacy

My father stopped as soon as we entered the room and the chatter ceased, every head turning toward us.

Archie went to stand on my father’s other side with Caleb on his side.

“Good afternoon,” my father greeted.

I scanned the room and smiled a little when I met Taylor’s concerned eyes. I didn't want her to worry for me, I was going to be okay.

My father squeezed my arm, and I turned my attention back to him.

He smiled down at me, it looked almost paternal. Lord, these people knew how to fake it. It was scary.

“As you know,” he addressed the guests again, “today comes as a bittersweet moment, and I think that every father in this room with precious daughters can understand my feelings, as we are looking forward to this day with both joy and trepidation.” He sighed, leaning down to kiss the crown of my head, earning a general ‘aww’ from the attendees.

I detailed them, were they seriously that blind or did they fake it as well?

“So today is the day where I’m giving my beautiful Esmeralda away, as a promise to a worthy young man.” My father turned toward Caleb. “I feel blessed that Caleb Astor will become my son-in-law. When he first approached me, declaring his love for my beautiful daughter I wasn’t sure, but Esmeralda’s enthusiasm managed to erase even my deepest doubt.”

Enthusiasm? Enthusiasm for what? Escape?!I thought, looking at Archie, and as our eyes met his flickered with amusement as if he could read my mind. Had we just shared a moment?

“I couldn’t think of a better match and I’m pleased to announce, I’ve agreed to the union between Caleb Astor and my daughter Esmeralda.”

Everybody started to applaud, and I didn't have to fake the virginal blush reaching my cheeks, I never particularly enjoyed being the centre of attention and today was just too much, with photographers’ flashes on my face and everybody scrutinising all my reactions. I was still not very well equipped at this lying game and probably never would be.

“Son?” My father gestured to Caleb invitingly.

No please God don’t do something stupid – not here, not now.

“Thank you, Mr Forbes.” Caleb stood in front of me, his icy blue eyes locked with mine. “Esmeralda, the first time I saw you I knew you would be either my downfall or my saving grace. A beauty like yours cannot leave you unscathed, I wasn’t sure which way you would lead me and despite my reluctance I followed down the path without a look back.”

I was mesmerized by his look of sincerity, his beautiful words. This man was not only an expert liar he really was a sociopath as Taylor kept saying – he was mimicking care and adoration so well I almost believed it. Almost.

“You are the most precious things on this earth, Esmeralda, it feels like my heart is beating somewhere inside your chest.” He got on his knee and despite the set-up some people gasped and my heart started to speed up.

It’s not really you, stupid girl, and you don’t want that, remember? You want out!

I looked down at him as he smiled at me so brightly. “Esmeralda Rosalind Forbes,” He retrieved a small velvet box from his pocket and opened it to reveal the ugly, oversized ring I picked. “Will you do me the incredible honor of marrying me?”

I nodded. “Yes, Caleb, of course I’ll marry you!” I replied with a matching smile.

Everybody clapped and cheered as Caleb slid the ring on my finger, kissed my hand and stood up.

He kissed my lips softly and took my hands as the guest parted.

“What’s going on?” I whispered to him.

“We’re dancing for the fans,” he whispered back with a little sarcasm.

He pulled me into his arms and smiled down at me

“Relax.”

“Since when do you care?”

He shrugged as the music started. “I just don’t want to look ridiculous.”

“I don’t dance well” I whispered with urgency as he twirled me around.

“But I do. Trust me and follow my lead.”

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