Afraid To Love

EPISODE 45

THREE WEEKS LATER

The engagement party between Jeremy Broderick and Purity Theodore has just come to an end. Edwin Broderick’s mansion served as the venue for the party. Few guests were invited. It was a family, private gathering. It was a successful event.

At a corner of the magnificent ballroom, Aaron and Prudence Theodore could be seen with Edwin Broderick chatting animatedly. Their happiness and joy could be seen from a distance. They all wanted this and finally, it came to pass. Just one person who had desired this was missing-Emily Broderick.

Purity Theodore stood out among the women- both old and young- in that room. She was dressed in a strapless gown. The fabric that flowed was elegant. If words could describe perfection, this would be it. It was her symbol of elegance. The lustrous, pearl beaded fabric of her dress glinted, light reflecting from the ball room glow. It fit flawlessly, the dress molded her torso beautifully, complimenting her feminine shape. The gown draped past her spectacular emerald heels, slightly drifting from her legs. It was the color of green. Its strapless style revealed her precious collar bones, warped in smooth, luring skin. There was a silk band at the top, lining around the top bust. The spotlight above beaming directly on her and the darker cream, intricate, floral design was glittering.

Her hair was tied in a bun. A sparkling hair pin designed it. Her posture was perfect, her shoulders pulled back and her hands in front of her. Her eyes were roving around the room, searching for her prince charming. She’d accidentally spilled juice on his tuxedo, due to her nervousness. He’d excused himself and went in to change. Now, she couldn’t find him. He’s taking too long, she mused. She bit her soft, thin lips coated with red lipstick in worry. She tossed her head to the left, then she saw him.

The suit was grey, sharp-looking and well fitted. Exactly the sort of thing she’d have picked for him-after all, he was her man. That was something that made her a bit nervous. Still, it fit well, it made him look very handsome, and when her smiled, it was a little bit magical. It was perfect for his suave manners.

He radiated an air of quiet confidence. The three button suit was tailored to precisely match the contours of his body, giving him a lithe-some appearance; yet there was nothing effeminate in his bearing. His hair cut was amazing-a hair she was tempted to touch, to feel whenever he was close to her. As he walked confidently to her direction, her heart fluttered.

He finally got to her. A smile flittered across his face. “Been searching for me?”

She returned his smile sweetly. “People must be wondering why the couple celebrating aren’t together.” she replied, escaping his question.

Jeremy smiled mischievously. “I’m sorry, my love. Did I take too long?” He spread his arms wide. “I must be looking magnificent. I took my time just for you.” He winked at her.

Purity frowned. “You must be full of yourself. I wish you could see your face.” She smiled devilishly. “You are so ugly.”

He couldn’t help it but laugh out loud. “Women are attracted to pretty men, aren’t they? Those women are drooling over me.” he pointed to a group of women.

Purity’s eyes followed his finger to were he pointed. “Where are they?”

Jeremy smirked. “Oh, she’s jealous.” He encircled his left arms round her slender waist. “Lets go chat with your brothers. I want to meet them.”

Purity never expected him to her waist, nevertheless, she welcomed it. It felt good to have a strong arm on her body, protecting her.

He didn’t wait for her reply. He moved and she followed. They steadily walked together till they got to where her brothers were having fun.

Rodney caught sight of the couple. He grinned. “Hey, brother-in-law. Come join us.”

Jeremy was pleased. “Thank you. Jeremy would be okay.”

Ronald smiled. “Jeremy, you finally captured our baby sister’s heart. Who’d have thought she’d ever get married?”

Rodney nodded in agreement. They all laughed.

“I’m not a baby!” Purity protested. “And its not a wedding, an engagement party.” Now, she had to bear her brothers mocking her. They always did.

“Congratulations.” A strange voice greeted.

Purity froze on hearing that voice. It shouldn’t be.

They all turned to face the person who had just spoken. Then Jeremy recalled something. “Thank you.” He turned to Purity. “I want you to meet my cousin-Ernest. Ernest Turner.”