CHAPTER 9

I SMILE bitterly while looking at my reflection in the mirror in front of me. I am wearing an expensive wedding gown. Today is my wedding day, and I'm not happy about it. I don't want to get married to someone I don't really love, but I don't have a choice.

"Elize? Are you done?" I heard my mom's voice while knocking at my door.

“I'm done! I'm going outside, Mom! Just wait a minute!" I yelled back.

Nagpakawala ako ng malalim na buntonghininga bago naglakad at binuksan ang pinto.

“Buti naman at lumabas ka na, anak. Alam mo bang kanina pa si Drex sa simbahan? At sabi ni balae ay baka daw pupunta 'yon dito kapag hindi ka pa dumating! Sampong minuto na tayong late, Elize!” bungad ni Mommy pagkalabas ko ng kuwarto.

Hindi ko ito pinansin at naglakad na ako palabas ng bahay habang hawak-hawak ang dulo ng gown ko.

Agad akong sumakay sa bridal car na nakahinto sa labas ng gate.

“Ngumiti ka nga, Elize. Tingnan mo 'yang mukha mo para kang namatayan!” sermon ni Mommy pagpasok ng sasakyan.

“I don