Page 21 of Ruby Queen
“I still don’t. Mom,” Rory tugged Christine’s hand, pulling her next to stand beside her, “I love Christine. And I love Anthony. I won’t choose one or the other.”
Rachel gawked as Anthony looped his arm around Rory’s middle and tugged her against him.
“I’m confused… What are you saying, Rory?”
Rory’s father began to laugh, causing her mother to glare at him, “Why are you laughing!”
“Because… our daughter is planning on marrying two people. A man… and a woman.”
“WHAT? No… that’s preposterous.”
“The only thing preposterous is the mentality that I have to marry a man. Well, guess what,” Rory stepped forward and swung her arm out, “I am marrying the people I love.”
“Congratulations, darling.” Her father mumbled, irrupting into a coughing fit, “I am just glad I get to see it happen,” he forced out in a whisper.
“This is crazy. Do you all hear what she is saying?”
“Yes… we hear her, and we love her.” Anthony spat, “I would do anything to make Rory happy.”
“Even letting her have a woman on the side?”
“Christine will not be a side item,” Anthony growled, “She will be an important part of this union.”
“This is nuts!”
“Shut up, Rachel.” Her father’s voice boomed through the room, silencing everyone.
“Excuse me?” Rachel turned to Oscar, “Oscar… you seriously can’t be ok with this? What will we tell everyone?”
“That our daughter, THE QUEEN,” he grunted, “Is marrying the two people that support and love her.”
Rachel didn’t speak. She stared at her husband, then glanced between the three people standing at the opposite end of the table. Finally, after what felt like prolonged silence, she spoke.
“I am not sure how to feel about this, but…” she drew in a breath, “I only want what makes you happy. Are you happy, Rory?”
Rory squeezed Christine’s hand and hugged Anthony, “Yes, mother. I am. And I know this is unorthodox and will take work on all of our parts… but we all love each other.”
“Fine, but you’re telling the kingdom on your own. Now,” Rachel clapped her hands, “Let’s eat. I’m starving.”
