ILL-FATED JOURNEY™

Chapter 9

Just like the wedding was strange, the reception was stranger. The other men in the vestibule was a

lawyer and Yuri served as witness as I signed my life away. All the documents were in Russian and

even though I could read it I wasn't given time to. As soon as I finished signing one, it was taken away

and sealed with the Alexandrovich seal. I had no idea what I signed it could be the rights to my

eternal soul, but I didnt dare question him, especially in front of Yuri.

The reception was kept in the castle and the guests milled about chatting aimlessly with one another.

Everyone congratulated the groom, no one spoke to the bride. At first, I thought this was his doing to

keep me from seeking help but as I accidently bumped into one of the female guest and saw her

sneer at me, I realized it wasnt his doing. The muttered negro and nigger as I passed by confirmed

it. They hated me.

I couldnt leave, and I wasnt allowed to hide from them either. Kateya who followed me dutifully

informed me that it was my duty as new mistress to oversee the guests, but I knew that was a lie.

Since the staff didnt need one iota of my input and the guests hated me, I served no purpose. But I

knew the truth, he was keeping me here. I was his middle finger to Slava and apparently to the rest of

Russian society, so he kept me in their sights.

We took our places at the head table and my new husband (I feel funny just thinking that) began the

toasts.

I thank you my esteemed comrades for attending our small ceremony

This was small! I thought looking over the sea of over 500 guests.

to celebrate the nuptial of me and my beloved

I was his beloved now hmm

and I know I speak for her when I say thank you

Why doesnt your beloved speak for herself? Yuri shouted from his seat in front and from my

vantage point I could feel the rage poring off the prince in waves, but he smiled back at Yuri saying

Im just doing what most grooms do, Yuri. Im not holding her tongueat least not at the moment.

And the crowd laughed at his crude jest.

Yuri wasnt put off though, I could practically see the gears turning in his head. Yuri knew. How much I

couldnt say but he knew our wedding was a farce and was aiming to make a mockery of the prince.

Princess Marita! He called, and it took me a moment to remember that was my new name. I also

wasnt aware of Yuris rank, so I didnt know how to address him, so I just inclined my head in

response.

After you and the Prince have your first dance, I claim the first. I dont think he will mind me having

you after.

I wasnt so innocent anymore and I knew what he meant, it was a dig to the prince. Rage suffused his

features for a split second before he masked it with another smile. Of course, Yuri. Its tradition. Then

he turned to me What say you my sweet, we have our dance now? Yuri seems eager for his, we may