THE UNION

It was a cozy and intimate celebration. Just a small group of close friends gathered to celebrate their union. Everyone looked stunning in their fancy outfits, eagerly awaiting the start of the ceremony.

Linda was assisting Emma in preparation for her special day. With a hint of doubt in her eyes, Emma asked, “Are you absolutely certain I’m making the right decision?”No matter how hard I  strain my brain, I can’t seem to recollect any memories of him.”

“Sweetheart, I won’t be around much longer and at this moment, you need someone who can truly be there for you and give you their full attention. Don’t over think what’s to come, just focus on enjoying the here and now.”Linda replied, trying to persuade her. “You look absolutely gorgeous. Come on, it’s time."

The soft melody of a romantic song filled the air as the bride, radiant in her flowing white gown walked down the aisle, her eyes locked with her soon to be spouse. Mike standing at the altar excludes confidence and charm in his sharp blue suit. The suit perfectly fits his tall stature and broad shoulders. The vibrant blue color complimented his skin. He couldn’t help but be amazed by how stunning she looked.  The priest with a gentle voice spoke of love and commitment. Emma couldn’t take her eyes off Mike, filled with curiosity about what lies ahead. She pondered if this was the right choice, realizing she knew so little about the man standing before her. The priest’s throat-clearing snapped Emma out of her thoughts, redirecting her attention back to the present moment.

“Do you Emma take this man to be your  lawfully wedded husband?” he asked.

Emma looking straight at Linda wondering if she’s making the right decision. Linda beamed at her with a small, reassuring smile. With a deep breath she turned to face Mike Williams, who returned her gaze with a warm smile. In that moment she whispered to herself “The man standing in front of me doesn’t look like a monster. Loving him won’t be a challenge."  In that moment she knew this was her new life and she will have to learn to embrace it. She took a deep breath and said “Yes, I do.” Her  husband grabbed her pulling her close for a kiss.

She settled into a car with Mike on their way to their new home. The car was uncomfortably quiet, the silence between them felt awkward. Emma squirming in her seat, clearly nervous.

“I don’t bite.” He said breaking the silence.

She smiled and replied “I never said you do.”

“I only bite  when you give me reasons to”. He said.

Emma’s face was filled with shock as she heard his words, her eyes widening with surprise.

“Well I’m going to try my best not to give you a reason to bite.She replied stammering. 

He wanted to help her relax and feel at ease but he didn’t know how to as he knows nothing about the woman beside him.

“If we intend to stay together, shouldn’t we establish some ground rules?” Mike said.

With a shock on her face she exclaimed “Rules!”

“I have my limits in terms of what I can and cannot handle.” He responded with a stern expression on his face.

She gaze at him with wide eyes, her disbelief evident in her expression. The image of the kindhearted man who had been there for her seemed to fade away replaced by a stranger with a cold demeanor. She couldn’t help but wondered what had caused the sudden change in his words and actions. 

“Did I do something wrong?” she asked herself. “O-Okay. ” she said stammering. “Is that what you want I’m totally fine with it. Just let me know what you would like me to do.” The car was silent as he remained silent, not responding to her.

As they arrived at the house, Mike stepped out of the car and casually shutting the door behind him without acknowledging the presence of the person behind him. Emma quietly whispered to herself “I must have done something wrong.” He entered inside the house and she followed closely behind him.

“I can currently only afford this place. It’s not very luxurious.” He said showing her their new home.

“I don’t mind.” she replied.

He walked her to her room. “You can freshen up and rest.”  he said as he stormed out. He was filled with regret pacing back and forth in his room, questioning his harsh treatment towards her. He muttered to himself “I didn’t intend to speak to her in such a harsh manner.”

He was startled by the sounds of sobbing. Curious, he ventured outside to see what it was. He followed the sound which led him directly to Emma’s room. He turned the doorknob and gently pushed the door open. Inside, he discovered Emma sitting on the floor, her head bowed as tears streamed down her face.

"Why did you even marry me if you intend to treat me like air?" She asked, tears streaming down her face.

He rushed over to her, wrapping his arms around her and said “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make you feel invisible. I guess I’m struggling to communicate with you  but I’m willing to learn” he admitted, his tone genuine and sincere. She lifted her gaze, her eyes locked on his, deeply moved by his words “he’s willing to learn” she murmured to herself.

As they locked eyes, he couldn’t resist the urge to pull her closer  and kissed her passionately. As d kissing intensified, they found themselves taking off each others clothes. Mike hesitated and said “Are you absolutely certain about this?  I don’t  want you to feel pressured in doing anything you are not comfortable with.”

She nodded shyly in response.

“No, I  want you to be in the right frame of mind before anything can happen.”  he said kissing her forehead. 

He walked out of the room like someone who was being chased, with a glint of regret in his countenance. He coldly said "Goodnight" while shutting the door hurriedly. Mike, with his head against the door he said to himself, “Mike put yourself together, you didn't want this marriage in the first place, it's just to take care of her.” walking to his room he silently promised never to follow his emotions again. As Mike's footsteps fades, she couldn’t help but wonder why he acted like a stranger. Were they not lovers before marriage?