Page 20 of Worthy: Cassius and Faith
“Well, we don’t have to observe all the traditions. But this one’s easy to do,” Faith said.
“You do need a dress,” I reminded her. “Gina will be sending over some options tonight.”
“That’s nice,” Faith said, seeming to perk up a little.
“Are you hungry?” I asked. “It was a long day.”
“I’m pretty tired.” Faith yawned. “I’ve never read a contract for seven hours straight before. I’m wiped out, and we have a long day tomorrow.”
In the morning, we’d be leaving for Boston. Our ceremony would be held in Lucas’s room at noon. Afterward, Faith and I would fly to Nantucket for the weekend to celebrate our marriage.
“You don’t want to eat?” I asked, concerned.
“I can eat,” she said, but I sensed she was just trying to please me. We had a quiet dinner at the island in the kitchen. For the first time since she’d moved in with me, the silence stretched out awkwardly.
“Is everything all right?” I asked. “Are you upset about the contract?”
“No, it’s fine.” Faith put the fork down and pushed her plate away. She’d hardly touched her food. “I’m very grateful you agreed to establish a trust for Lucas. That was very generous of you.”
“It’s my pleasure.” I reached for her hand and squeezed it. “I said it before, and I meant it. I will always care for you and your family—our family.”
A flicker of emotion passed through her eyes—hope? But it was gone before I could be sure. “Thank you, Cassius.”
Her words were filled with gratitude, but somehow, they sounded hollow.
“Will you try on your dresses tonight?” I asked, hoping that picking a dress would excite her.
“Of course. But I can’t show them to you,” she said and smiled. “Tradition.”
“Ah. I see.”
She cleared our plates, then gently kissed me on the cheek. “Good night, Cassius. See you in the morning.”
“Yes, see you.” I longed to reach out and pull her against me, but she slipped away up the stairs, leaving me alone with my thoughts.
Tomorrow, I’d be married.
Soon, I’d be a father.
I would have a family, something I’d never taken for granted.
But for some reason, I felt more alone than ever.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
shotgun
Faith
I rose early to prepare for the big day. When I padded into the guest bathroom, I found a note from Cassius taped to the mirror.
Good Morning, Faith.
It occurred to me that tradition dictates the bride and groom shouldn’t see each other before the wedding ceremony. Therefore, I’m heading up early, and I’ve arranged for my driver to bring you to Boston. Please eat some breakfast, and enjoy your morning. Gina is available if you need anything.
See you at the treatment center.
I’ll be the one in the tuxedo.
