A Cold Wife, Sweet Husband

Her heart pounded nervously in her c.h.e.s.t. She wasn't sure if this conversation was going positively or not. But if you are willing to marry me, then we can elope and live somewhere else. I'd be willing to leave everyone behind for you. He looked sadly at her. It's not meant to be. Time stood still for a moment while she struggled to make sense of what he just told her. I like you, he began. You're a great person, but I'm the only son and the only one who can take over my father's business when he retires. It would kill him if I left it to marry you.

I can't have his sorrow on my conscience. She sighed, trying not to let her despair show. She couldn't expect him to leave everything he knew behind just so he could run off with her and be her husband. I understand, she finally replied. Thank you for your time. I will not bother you anymore. She turned from him and walked away. I'm sorry, he called out. She didn't bother to respond to him. She simply kept walking. Tears formed in her eyes but she quickly wiped them aside.

The very next day was her wedding day and it didn't look like there was anything she could do to stop it. She was about to be forced into a life of misery with a man who was not only dull and didn't care anything about her but wanted to improve his clientele. Is that all I'm good for? Helping a man make a good impression for the sake of his business? Am I not worth more than that?

Chapter Five

Jessica mindlessly went to the church where Mrs. Parker helped her put on her wedding gown and made some last-minute alterations. The white dress had long sleeves, a heart-shaped neckline and a pearl flower design in the front. The pearls on the dress matched her pearl necklace and earrings. Jessica thought it was pointless to be so particular about a wedding gown. Why spend so much time fussing over a dress that is only worn once?

Mary, her maid of honor, smiled. You look splendid. I have yet to see an ugly bride, Mrs. Parker added. Though I confess you are more attractive than some women I have worked with. Jessica decided not to respond. Instead, she waited until Mrs. Parker was done before turning her attention to her best friend. Julie was her bridesmaid, but she hadn't shown up yet. There was still another hour before the ceremony, so Jessica wasn't concerned. Once Mrs. Parker left, Jessica finally got a chance to talk to Mary alone. She quickly sat at the small table in the bridal chamber and wrote Leo a note, asking him to call off the wedding since she didn't wish to marry him. She turned to her best friend. Will you send this to Mr. Monroe?

Mary frowned. I don't know if calling off the wedding is a good idea, Jessica. I've thought about it and I think he'll be a good husband to you. She g.r.o.a.n.e.d. Not you too! She shrugged.

I can't explain it but I don't think he's as boring as you fear. I had time to watch him at the engagement party and I saw the way he looked at you. He loves you, and he's willing to marry you even though you're poor. I believe you will be very happy with him, though it won't seem so at first. What is wrong with everyone? Am I the only one who sees how wrong we are for each other? Apparently. She shook her head. Obviously, the insanity is spreading. Mary laughed. Is that what it is? If insanity is wanting my friend to be happily married to a man who'll adore her, then I confess that I am insane. Jessica ignored her as she stood up and left the room with the note. Her friend ran after her. You don't know what you're doing.

She reached for her arm and stopped her. Jessica, don't be rash. Seriously, he isn't that dull. He laughs a lot and has an enthusiasm for life. I didn't notice this until I watched him on Thursday evening. I misjudged him because he doesn't stand out in a crowded room. And if you take the time to actually look at him, you'll find that he's attractive. Since you think so well of him, why don't you marry him? I'll be glad to let you take my place. No. He's not for me. He's for you. See? Even you wouldn't marry him. He cares for you in a way he doesn't care for me. I'm not the one he wants. So it's all about what he wants?

What I want doesn't matter?

You are being unnecessarily stubborn. Do you honestly think Harrison would make a better match? No. Harrison puts money before me. He would make a dreadful husband. Then be grateful that you get to be with Leo instead. Leo's not any better. His big concern is looking good for his clients. The only thing I will be is a doll he can put on display. You have no idea how wrong you are, and until you're married to him, you won't know the truth. Jessica decided that she had heard enough. She shook her friend's hand off of her arm.

She marched across the entryway, ignoring the startled looks from the guests, and went straight to the groom's chamber. She loudly knocked on the door. Her brother opened it. He looked shocked to see her. Jessica, you shouldn't be here. You know it's bad luck for the bride to see the groom before the wedding. This wedding is a big mistake and we both know it. I need to speak to Mr. Monroe at once, she demanded. You can't. He's not here.

What?

He had to take care of some business with a client. He expects to be here five minutes before the ceremony. You won't have time to talk to him before the wedding. You'll have to give him a list of your grievances later. How convenient it is for him to be unavailable so often, she snapped. If I didn't know better, I'd swear it was a ploy to make sure I'd have to go through with the marriage. She crossed her arms and glared at him. Come on, Jessica. Don't look at me like that. She stood still.