Letting Go

Chapter One

"And now, we will hear from the bride's sister, Della!" The announcer says and I stand, smoothing out my tight red dress.

Approaching the large fireplace in front of the reception I clear my throat nervously before taking the microphone. My eyes gaze over the wide array of tables and expectant smiles... Forcing back the bad memories associated with them, I unfold my speech and begin, "Stella, I've known you all of your life... We shared it all... Our parents, our teachers, our birthdays, our bedrooms, and when I had nightmares we even shared your bed. How could I have know back then that one day someone else would have these privileges? I will admit, when you told me you'd be marrying Dan, I choked on the air I gasped up..." I smile, this isn't so bad. Glancing up I catch the eyes of my sister and her bright smile and say my next line confidently. "But, after some thinking I realized how wonderful this day would truly be. You are beautiful and so smart, smart enough to wait and to know that you truly have made the right decision. Dan, you are definitely the right decision for my sister. You two are so full of life and love and it just radiates to everyone around you. But as I said the day you started dating, you hurt her and you die," this gets a chuckle from my audience. "Stella, I love you. So much. And I know that no matter where your life goes from here on out it will be beautiful, just like you. I could never ask for a better sister, a better twin, a better best friend..." I choke out these last words, tears threatening my eyes and laugh, "Well I've blabbed long enough, may you two live a happily ever after... to Stella and Dan." I finish raising my glass. Everyone raises theirs and the toast is finished.

Music fills the room as I move to my seat, mentally exhausted. Understandably, weddings just aren't my thing. Not long after I've sat down though Stella is sitting next to me, her gorgeous princess white gown, shimmering down her lap and onto the floor... "Della, I just want to thank you... so much. Just for even being here." she smiles at me and I nod happily.

"Oh, it's no biggie. Just a few extra therapy sessions." I joke.

Her face grows stern, "That's not funny." she sighs, "Really, are you okay?" she asks.

"I'll live." I say shortly, "Hey, why are we being so serious, this is a wedding for God's sake, let's go dance!" I exclaim and jump up leading her by the hand to the dance floor. She giggles as we dance around the floor, moving so naturally over the hardwood as we once did in our socks at home.

"Mind if I step in?" Dan asks tapping my bare shoulder gently.

"Not all my new brother," I grin and back away watching the two dance off into the crowd.

I cross my arms and stand at the edge, enjoying the scene until I feel the warmth of another hand on my shoulder. I jump slightly, not realizing someone is beside me. Glancing over I see the tall figure of a man. Instantly I grow cold. "Hey, Della right?" he asks me.

"Yes..?" I ask uneasily, taking a half step away. Doesn't this guy know what personal space means? Gosh.

"I couldn't help but notice you look stunning." he grins, his smile perfect and gorgeous. Shark like. His eyes bright and green. Hiding something. His body dressed up in a nice suit and tie and his brown hair styled away from his smooth face. A trap.

I glance down at my dress and shiver, how could I let Stella talk me into this dress? Too much skin, I'm practically inviting this guy into my bed... and my hair and makeup? They beg for attention... I don't want attention. My breathing quickens. "Please leave me alone." I tell him quietly, backing away.

I feel a strong hand wrap my thin wrist. He says something but I don't hear it, I'm too focused on his grip. It's too tight... he's hurting you... he's going to.. going to... going to..

"LET GO!" I scream and everything grows quiet. The man releases my wrist in shock and I glance around. Shit, everyone is staring. Barely holding back my tears I run from the room, glancing back momentarily to see Stella approaching the man I just terrified... Terrified him? He deserved it, men are evil. No... no... no...
~~~

She screamed at me? I look down at my now empty hand and contemplate what I could possibly have done wrong. I was sweet, charming, kind... I'm starting to wonder what the hell these women want!
"Hey, I'm sorry about that." I hear a voice similar to the one that just shouted at me and look up to see a very similar face as well, Stella.
"Oh it's no problem but, can you explain what just happened?" I ask staring after Della who has just disappeared around the corner.
"Um..." She gets rather uncomfortable looking, " I really can't tell you much but... Okay do you like my sister?" She asks slowly, cautiously.
"I don't know, I think so but then again I don't know her yet." I reply in confusion. What is she looking for a love confession?
"But you want to know her?" She presses.
"Yes?" I practically ask.
"Good... My sister is afraid of men. I can't tell you everything but I can tell you that if you're looking to know her you'll need to put effort into it." She smiles. "By the way I'm Stella, you're Cameron right? Dan's friend?"
"Best friend was my title at one point, yeah." I grin.
"Haha well it's nice to meet you!" She exclaims hugging me. I hug her small frame back and the she walks off to calm the rest of the stunned guests, leaving me to my thoughts.
Effort into getting a girl? I don't think I've ever done that. Girls have always wanted me and that's the way I like it... Still, I can't shake the thoughts of her smooth skin and soft hair... She was gorgeous... I think I can work for that.