Chapter 40
Tessy’s POV
I looked at him again and realized I couldn’t come up with something, it’s best I just start leaving.
I stood on my feet saying, “I need to go now, I don’t want my father to start looking for me.”
“Oh, I thought you lived alone.” He stood up as well.
“Yes I do but right now, I’m at my dad’s, thank you so much for your time, I shall take my leave immediately.” I was about to exit the room when he stopped me saying, “Are you really not going to tell me?”
“I just wanted to cool my head, I could have gone to any place so no big deal.” I knew I shouldn’t have said that but It’s done already, there is no way I can take it back.
“Okay, thank you so much!!” He let out a brief smile, like what is he thanking me for? Did I even do anything worth a thank you from him?
He stepped out with me saying, “Let me drive you to your dad’s place, just give me the location.”
“Oh come on, it’s late already and I can just take a walk out of here and get a taxi.” I explained to him that I didn’t want to be a burden to him.
“That’s the more reason I should drive you home myself, it’s late and dangerous for a lady to return alone, please don’t argue with me because I am taking you home.” He concluded and I had no other choice but to give in.
I really didn’t know what to say to him next when we entered his car, I kept mute and to kill the silence in the car, he started playing music on our way to my dad’s home.
Immediately we got to my dad’s place, I thanked him for the ride and wished him a safe ride home. I made sure he was out of sight before going in. I was shocked to see Dad still awake and it was late.
“I didn’t know you left the house.” Dad inquired from me.
“Wel, l I needed space that’s why, how are you doing now Dad?” I moved closer to him and noticed his eyes were red. This means Dad must have been crying ever since I left, how I wish I knew what was causing their issues, I would know how to offer help.
“I am okay, it’s late, you need to sleep now,” Dad said to me and I nodded.
“Okay Dad, I will return to my room now but promise me you will get some rest.” I placed my hands on Dad’s shoulder and he gave me a nod.
“Good night Father!!”
“Good night my lovely daughter.” He hugged me and kissed my cheek. I ended up in my room, locking the door behind me and falling asleep immediately without wasting any more time, tomorrow was going to be another day and I needed to be prepared.
*
*
I stared at my mother and Eddy’s mother, feeling trapped. “Do we have to go shopping today?”
“Yes, dear,” my mother replied, her voice sounded so serious, can’t they just give me a break?
“The engagement party is next week, and we need to get you the perfect dress.”
Eddy’s mother, Mrs. Ruth, nodded in agreement. “We want you to look stunning, Tessy.”
I sighed, feeling my frustration and I asked politely. “Can’t I pick out my dress for the engagement?”
My mother’s expression already told me I have no say on this, “You will, my little pumpkin, but we also know what’s best for you.”
Mrs. Ruth joined the conversation, “We’ve already selected a few designs. Let’s go try them on.” So they have it all planned out, I knew it, who will save me?
I reluctantly followed them to Rosalie Boutique. Racks of elegant gowns surrounded us, but I felt suffocated. I wish Anthony was the one sponsoring my shopping…
“Try this one,” my mother said, handing me a frilly, pastel pink dress.
I hesitated, unsure. “I don’t know, Mom…”
Mrs. Ruth encouraged, “Come on, dear. It’s perfect for the occasion.”
I reluctantly changed into the dress. The fit was tight, and the style wasn’t what I liked.
“I don’t like it,” I said, frowning, unable to hide my feelings.
My mother reacted saying,. “Nonsense, Tessy. You look lovely.”
Mrs. Ruth agreed, “Yes, dear. This is the one.”
I felt my voice being silenced. They weren’t listening to me.
The final dress was a pale blue monstrosity with excessive lace. I emerged from the dressing room, exasperated.
“That’s it,” I said, my voice firm. “I’ve had enough.”
My mother’s eyes widened. “Tessy, what’s wrong?”
“I want to make my own choice,” I said, my voice rising. “Just let me make my own choice.”
My mother’s face reddened. “Tessy, don’t be unreasonable.”
I stood tall, my heart pounding. “I’m not being unreasonable. I’m being me. And I deserve a say in my own life.”
With that, I turned and walked away, leaving my mother and I know she will explain to Mrs Ruth that I left or create an excuse not to make her in-law angry because Mrs Ruth excused herself to get a call.
“I’ll choose my dress,” I whispered to myself.
I ended up with Elizabeth and accepted her apology, I informed her about everything happening, and she laughed about it which was so annoying.
Finally, the deal day was here, the engagement party!!! Is it okay to say my engagement party or my family-planned engagement party? I kind of feel sick already, I wish there was a way out of this.
I looked in the mirror and reminded myself constantly that I needed this to buy time and think of a way not to marry Eddy at all costs. Like he is someone who almost forced himself on me the other day, so annoying.
I sluggishly had my bath and was about to get dressed, my mother came with the crew to get me ready, Elizabeth joined and I was happy because I would just talk with my friend.
I fitted into the amazing outfit I finally chose for myself and I was ready. My dad hugged me saying, “My little pumpkin is becoming a grown-up woman!” Okay, can we be done with this already? Like I am tired, I just need this done immediately.
We arrived at the hall where it was taking place, a lot of drinks, food, desserts, and so many things were in place. The decorations were on point but I still felt empty.
Eddy approached me and acted to be gentle by kissing my hands saying, “You look stunning.”
“Thank you!” I added, feeling weird. I scanned the whole place for him but he wasn’t there.
The order of things took place and I accepted the ring from Eddy, but heaven knows I won’t even wear this ring always.
They wanted us to kiss, oh damn it, this is insane… I can’t see him in Eddy, can’t this part be excluded?
As Eddy’s lips approached mine, I turned my head, avoiding the kiss. The crowd’s cheers and applause faltered, and an awkward silence fell.
Eddy’s smile looks faint, I know I have ruined things but what next? “My shy fiancee,” he said, chuckling.
I forced a laugh, playing along and it was settled l.
The gift-giving ceremony began, and guests started presenting us with elaborate packages. I smiled and thanked each person, going through the motions.
That’s when I saw him Anthony, standing at the back of the room, looking breathtaking in his tailored suit. His eyes locked onto mine, and my heart skipped a beat.
Anthony approached us, a charming smile on his face. “Congratulations, my handsome nephew!” He handed Eddy a sleek, silver box.
Eddy beamed, opening the gift to reveal an expensive watch. “Thanks, Uncle Anthony!”
Anthony’s gaze shifted to me, his eyes sparkling with amusement. “Welcome to the family, Tessy.”
I rolled my eyes, forcing a smile for the crowd’s sake.
As Anthony mingled with the guests, my phone buzzed in my clutch. I glanced at the screen:
“Meet me at the east wing, babydoll.” I don’t need a soothsayer to tell me this text it’s from him, I checked the crowd and he was nowhere to be found.
If he thinks I will go to him, he must be crazy!! I had no choice but to meet him, how silly of me.
I walked toward the east wing, my heels clicked on the marble floor. I kept telling myself how foolish I was.
Anthony waited in the space, leaning against a pillar. His eyes locked onto mine, and I felt a shiver run down my spine.
“Babydoll,” he whispered, his voice husky.
I stood tall, trying to ignore the butterflies. “What do you want, Anthony?”
He chuckled, pushing off the pillar. “You know exactly what I want.” He pinned me to the wall and kissed me, I stopped him saying, “Stop this!”His eyes gleamed with a familiar intensity, and I felt like I was losing to him.
“How dare you? Have you forgotten? You cheated on me, Anthony but what did you do? You never came up with a reason, you left…”
“I never promised you a commitment!!” He replied coldly.
“And you never informed me you were coming, you brought it upon yourself!!” Saying this to me, he already slid his fingers into my panties, I moaned slowly and he said in a low voice, “If you want an apology!! Come with me now, I will spoil you rotten!!” He went faster and I was already wet.. “Remember your body belongs to me, I will be waiting.” He stopped, kissed my cheek and left.
TBC..