Page 43 of Buckled in Barbwire

“You’ll also be dripping in diamonds. We both win.”

“That remains to be seen.” I thrust out my left hand for his taking. “Do your worst. I’m done dragging my feet.”

“Is that a yes?” The sincerity in his tone almost convinces me that I have a choice. As if this is legit and I can reject him without consequences. His unwavering stare does a good job selling the ruse too.

I groan and roll my eyes. “Yes,” I confirm.

Mom and Dad erupt in a chorus of congratulations. Their joy is almost infectious until the haze clears and I remember what’s at stake. Brody is ruining what’s meant to be one of the most memorable milestones of my life. I should cherish this moment, but it isn’t real. Instead, there’s a bitter taste in my mouth that I fear might be permanent.

My parents must notice that I’m struggling to choke down this wretched fate. They take the cue and disappearinto the kitchen to fetch champagne. Maybe the bubbles will help me escape.

But when Brody slides the ring onto my finger, the cool metal feels like a shackle I’ll never break. “Perfect fit.”

With our audience preoccupied, I allow my grin to collapse under the weight of this lie. Anger consumes me as he stands to his full height. I grip the front of his shirt and yank him down to my level.

The hatred I feel sizzling in my veins demands that he burns with me. “You’re such a jerk. I’ll never forgive you for this.”

Brody lifts my left hand to pepper kisses on my knuckles. “Lucky for me, I have the rest of our lives to make up for it.”

There’s a thrum rushing under my skin as I straighten off the wall. The anticipation has gained momentum, clawing at me to take charge. But this is a delicate matter. An ounce of patience won’t hurt me. That doesn’t make it easier to stand still.

I resist the urge to check my watch again. As if rewarding my diligence, a buzz comes from my pocket. The excited chatter filling the room fades into a muted hum. A glance at the screen blocks out their voices completely.

612-543-5555:Why is there a glam squad at my apartment?

And just like that, the restless energy goes still.

Me:Good morning, fiancée. I was wondering when you’d finally use my number.

Twinkles:Answer thequestion.

Me:It’s our wedding day.

Twinkles:That’s news to me.

Me:Couldn’t let you get cold feet.

Twinkles:You proposed two days ago…

Me:Did you prefer a shorter engagement?

Twinkles:Is that a serious question?

Me:I couldn’t get us on the schedule sooner. Small town problems.

Twinkles:Wow. You’re really something else.

Me:Apologies for the delay. Just sit back and relax. You deserve to be pampered, bride of mine.

Twinkles:We’re not getting married and I’m not your anything.

Me:But you said yes.

Twinkles:To avoid disappointing my parents. Thanks again for putting me on thespot. Really nice touch.

Me:Won’t they be disappointed when you don’t show up to City Hall?

Twinkles:You invited them?!

---