Today was the day. Today I get married to a man I almost despise. He drives me crazy, and I can’t determine if I like that or not. I woke up and hoped in the shower. I washed my hair, used that vanilla sandalwood soap Maximo likes so much, and shaved. I got out and started to dry off when I heard my door open and a man’s voice I didn’t recognize.
“Ah perfect, you’ve already showered. Come come, let’s get you ready to be married!” He squealed. The maids brought in a barber chair, hairdryers, straighteners, curlers, makeup bags, lingerie, and my dress. The man sat me down and brushed my hair. He took out his scissors and gave me a much-needed haircut. He dried my hair and pulled out the curler, curling my still long hair. He put the back up with pins, leaving some small pieces out. He added jewels as well. Next was my makeup. He refused to do my typically cat eyeliner and opted instead for a natural look. Natural eyeshadow, lashes, blush, and a natural pink lip.
He picked out a white, lacy, lace-up corset and white lace panties. He helped lace up the corset, I felt like I couldn’t breathe but it made my body look amazing. When he was finished, he helped me get into the dress and my shoes. “Perfect.” He said giving me a big smile. “Beautiful.”
I had no idea of the itinerary for the day, but I guess we would be getting married soon as I was already ready. Once I suppose it was time, Jesus came into my room to talk to me. “Wow, bello, you look like an angel.” He gave me a smile that sent chills down my spine. He came over to me and lifted my hand to his mouth. He placed his hand on my hip and touched my face. I pulled away from him.
“Thanks, when is this supposed to begin?” I said walking to my mirror to give myself one last look over.
“Now, bello. Come.” He grabbed my hand and led me out of my room. The hallway was transformed with white roses, calla lilies, carnations, baby’s breath, string lights, and white curtains. There was a dark green rug that ran the floor. It was magnificent how the room was transformed. The rug led to the sunroom before the patio. Once we rounded the corner I could see chairs, an altar, and Maximo waiting for me.
He was facing outside. When he heard the music start and everyone stand up, he turned around to face me. He looked tired or drunk or both. He didn’t smile, he just looked straight through me. Jesus raised his eyebrow and narrowed his eyes at Maximo, who softened up just for a moment. Jesus walked me all the way to the alter, kissing my cheek before helping me up next to Maximo. I knew nobody here except Claire, Miles, James, Maximo, his security detail, Jesus, and Tazio. The other people in the crowd looked important, like they were witnessing a business deal and not a wedding. That really isn’t a far stretch. This was a business deal.
The minister made our vowels short and sweet, really not much was said, just the important parts. I really wasn’t listening. When it got to the parts of the rings I pulled out a black ring to place on Maximo’s finger and he pulled out a thick silver band with diamonds. He gave me a small kiss and everyone clapped their hands.
People walked up and shook Jesus and Maximo’s hands. They gave Maximo gifts of money and liquor. Nobody looked my way or congratulated me. I overheard someone call Maximo the ‘new kingpin.’ I just brushed it off not caring or knowing what that meant. I was hungry and got up, everyone looked my way and nodded me off. I walked into the kitchen and made myself a plate of chicken tacos. I ate in the dining room alone. I assumed I was no longer part of the party and started to walk back to my room when Maximo grabbed my arm. I pulled it back, but he held me tight.
“Hey.” He said. How annoying, I thought. That is all he can say to me on our wedding day. I turned around to look at him.
“Hi.” I said, looking into his eyes. He kissed me softly. He pulled me into a hug and whispered into my ear.
“You look beautiful. I’m glad I let you pick the dress.” And chuckled softly. “Let’s go.” He said leading me to the car.
“Where are we going?” I asked annoyed.
“To our honeymoon.” He smiled again and helped me into the car. The driver took off. Maximo pulled my hand into his lap and intertwined his fingers in mine. He pulled my hand to his mouth and kissed it. He straightened out my rings and smiled at the shine my finger gave off.
We drove for what felt like forever but pulled up to the Hernandez’s private airstrip. We got onto the plane and Maximo’s security detail grabbed our bags. He didn’t allow my security detail to come so they stayed back at the house and was happy to have a week off.
Maximo led to the chair across from where he usually sits. He sat across from me and poured me a glass of champagne. I took it and dumped it down my throat. Maximo huffed pouring me another glass, I dumped it down my throat as well. He grabbed my glass and pulled me onto his lap, we were both facing forward. “Slow down or you won’t be able to keep up with me tonight.” I chuckled and grabbed the bottle of champagne moving back to my seat.
“Are you not going to tell me where we are going?” He laughed.
“Nope.” I laid back and crossed my legs, just enjoying the flight. I finally fell asleep.