Little Fox
The night before the bride-selection ceremony, my best friend was having sex with my childhood friend in the most sacred underground chapel.
"You're getting married tomorrow... and I'm just a stray from the slums. How could I ever be worthy of you?" Chloe said, her voice thick with tears.
Victor Moretti pulled her closer into his arms. "Isn't what we're doing here proof enough of how I feel? Relax. I've already rigged tomorrow's draw. God will choose you, and only you."
"But will your family accept me? Everyone knows Elia is your fiancee. Tomorrow's ceremony is just a formality..."
"A formality?" He scoffed. "She doesn't even deserve the effort of me going through the motions. My wife is whoever I say she is."
I stood behind the door, my nails digging deep into my palms until the sharp sting kept me alert.
I used to think we were each other's rock.
But from the beginning, I had been the only one who felt that way.
Victor, if tomorrow's ceremony is nothing but a show you can rig however you please, I'm done playing my part.
Seven days later, I walked toward the wedding car in my gown.
Victor charged toward me like a man possessed, clinging to the car door as he screamed, "Elia, don't marry him! I love you..."
I slapped him hard across the face and enunciated every word. "From now on, call me Aunt Elia."