Prologue
“Elizabeth?” I stop shoveling peas around my plate and when I look up at David, he continues, “Now that we’re having dinner with your parents, I’d like to make use of the opportunity to announce our engagement.”
Engagement?
Did I miss his proposal?
“Ellie! That’s great news!” My mother jumps from her chair and hugs me. My father stays seated but nods his head approvingly.
I side-glance at David again. He smiles, clueless of the fact that he never actually asked me. “When is the wedding?” I ask, ignoring the uncomfortable feeling in my gut.
He shrugs and continues eating. “Right after your graduation. We wasted enough time already.”
I look around the table. My mother is babbling about dresses, tapestry and flowers. David has trouble cutting through his tough steak. The sound of his knife scratching the plate pierces my ears.
It seems that I’m the only one who finds this whole scene beyond surreal. No ring? No romantic gesture? Then again, David always says I read too many books.
My father tilts his head. “Are you all right, Ellie?”
Nope. I force a smile on my face. “I think I am—”
David cuts in. “You know Ellie, easily overwhelmed.”
Maybe he’s right. David has always been clear about wanting to get married. I guess, a proposal wasn’t necessary. This is the plan; we’re just putting it into action.
Not long after dinner, David heads home and I retreat to the old rusty swing set at the nearby playground. My favorite place for stargazing and contemplating life.
I search the stars for a hidden message. Just a tiny clue or omen, good or bad. Something that tells me life has more in store for me. Was that twinkle a wink of fate or a simple galactic trick of the light?
Nothing but silly ideas.
With the heels of my feet, I move to and fro. Love isn’t always about sparks of passion. Sometimes it’s more about security and companionship. That’s what my parents have. If it’s enough for them, it should be enough for me as well.
I’m probably just a little shell-shocked over the casual way my future was decided. No need to panic. We’re moving forward with our lives. This is how it’s supposed to be. We’ve dated for quite some time now. Getting married is the logical next step.
It has to be.
So why do I suddenly feel frozen? Why is my head, as well as my heart, pounding with uncertainty?
I’m overreacting. I don’t even know what kind of change I’m longing for. My doubts and fears are childish; David would agree on that.
I straighten my slumped shoulders to convince myself of my latest mindset and walk back home, leaving the playground behind. It’s time to grow up and start acting like an adult. One that will be married within a matter of months.
I gaze at the moonlit sky once more before closing the door behind me.
