Whisper Destiny

~ Natasha ~

As I sit at the mahogany study table, bathed in the soft glow of antique lamps, the weight of the contract in my hands feels heavier than the solid oak of the furniture itself. I have read the contract for the umpteenth time, yet I still can't find the courage to sign it. Catherine's signature has been there since she handed me the document two months ago, a stark contrast to my hesitation.

The content of the contract clearly benefits me, while offering nothing for Catherine. What is she trying to imply about our marriage? Does she truly do not want anything out of it? The questions swirl in my mind, each more perplexing than the last, casting long shadows over the certainty I once thought I had.

Rising from my seat, I cast a glance toward the window, where the view is breathtaking. The rolling hills and ancient trees are bathed in the golden hues of twilight, a serene prelude to the evening ahead. Tonight is our rehearsal dinner, a final gathering before the wedding takes place this weekend.

My mother had truly outdone herself with the wedding planning, exceeding all expectations in her usual, extravagant fashion. I could have expected nothing less from her. She has booked an entire castle in Ireland for the occasion, its ancient stone walls and majestic towers standing as a testament to her unrelenting dedication. The castle, draped in opulent decorations and illuminated by the soft glow of countless candles, promises a celebration that feels both like a fairy tale and a grand historical ancient.

A knock at the door pulls me back to reality. "Hey, pumpkin-pie." Chase stands in the doorway, a warm smile lighting up his face. He looks striking in traditional Irish attire, the deep greens and rich fabrics complementing his rugged features. "Are you ready for the rehearsal? Your mother asked me to escort you to the hall." He steps further into the room, his eyes gleaming with pride.

"I can't believe you're getting married soon. But I'm happy for you," he says, his voice filled with genuine emotion.

"You've never been this happy for me before, with my previous boyfriends, even when I've tried to make you be. You realize this is just a temporary arrangement between Catherine and me, right, Chase?" I reply, my voice tinged with a mix of curiosity.

"I know, but still, I'm so happy for you right now. You can't dispute my feelings, Natty," he grumbles, a hint of stubbornness in his tone.

When I arrived at the hall, I saw my parents already there, along with Catherine. We both wore tuxedo-inspired gowns for tonight's event, with me in white and Catherine in black, a striking contrast that complemented each other perfectly. As always, she looked effortlessly stunning, no matter what she wore. Chase gently guided me towards her.

"You look beautiful, Natasha" Catherine said, her voice rich with sincerity and admiration as her eyes locked onto mine.

"Thanks," my voice barely above a whisper, no emotion and I had no intention to compliment her back.

Catherine offered her arm, and I took it, playing along with the charade. As we entered the dining hall hand in hand, the guests erupted into applause. I scanned the room, recognizing a few familiar faces, but most were just business associates, closest employees from both our companies and a few from my extended families.

The room's decoration screamed love and intimacy, with fresh flowers adorning every corner and table. Once again, my mother had truly outdone herself in preparing for this wedding. During the rehearsal dinner, there were heartfelt speeches from my father, my mother, even Chase, and Louisa, each addressing both of us.

Tonight, I felt more emotional than usual. I felt genuinely touched by their words, though I tried to mask my emotions behind a composed facade. Whether it was the wedding vibe or something else, I wasn't sure. The whole scene, from the lovingly crafted decorations to the sincere speeches, created an atmosphere that seemed almost magical, intensifying the whirlwind of feelings swirling within me. Catherine's persistent glances only served to heighten my already heightened state of emotion. With every glance, every subtle touch exchanged between us, the intensity of my feelings seemed to magnify, rendering me powerless to resist their pull.