NADIA
Vicky's mother had been moving at lightning speed, preparing for the engagement party that would officially announce the union of our two families.
It had only been two weeks since the decision was made, but everything was already falling into place. Our families were known for its power and influence in different industries - my father's family in finance, and Vicky's family in technology. People didn't know what we did behind close doors, but they knew we were successful.
I hadn't had a chance to speak to my brother in depth since we moved into our new house. He had been busy with work, taking over the responsibilities my father left behind. I knew he was under a lot of pressure, and I couldn't expect him to be as carefree as he was before.
As I looked at myself in the mirror, I felt a sense of unease. My mom had helped me pick out a champagne-colored dress that sparkled in the light. I paired it with some kitten heels and styled my braids in a side part. My makeup was simple, with a nude lip and lip liner.
As I went down the stairs, I saw my brother standing in the foyer. He was wearing a navy tuxedo with a white shirt and tie. I couldn't help but smile at how handsome he looked. "Wow, look at you cleaning up nicely," I said, trying to lighten the mood.
He looked at me, his expression a mix of emotions. I could tell he wasn't happy, but he was still playing his part with no complaints. I wasn't expecting him to be enthusiastic about the circumstances. I fixed his tie, noticing that it was a bit crooked. "You look good in a tie, but not that tie," I said, smiling. "Let me do it for you."
As I finished tying my brother's tie, I looked up at him and smiled. "You know, I really appreciate you," I said, my voice filled with emotion. "I don't mean to get all mushy, but I kind of need to in this moment. This might be the last time I ever get to just have you as just my brother."
My brother's expression softened, and he looked at me with a mix of sadness and understanding. "That's not entirely true," he said. "You'll always be my sister, no matter what happens."
I nodded, feeling a lump form in my throat. "In another universe, I would have actually had shipped you guys, but I guess not," I said, trying to lighten the mood. "What, me and Victoria Grey?" he arched his brow, unimpressed.
"I just thought I'd witness an enemies -to- lovers love story but that didn't really work out so well. I think it only works in the movies."
My brother smiled slightly, "Mom must have dropped you on your head when you were a baby cause there's no way in hell that would ever happen. Her and I lovers? You're clearly out of it," And I rolled my eyes at his response. I told him this was before but the idiot had zero listening skills.
But I continued anyways. "I'm really grateful for you, and I wouldn't have known what to do without you. You've been through something similar, and I know you never wanted this type of life. But I'm willing to help you in every step of the way, in any way that you need. You'll always have my support, and I'll never do anything to sabotage you."
As I finished speaking, my brother hugged me tightly. "Thank you," he whispered, his voice filled with emotion. I hugged him back, feeling a sense of closeness and connection.
For some time now, he had to keep everything aside and hidden in order to protect me. He had to make sure everything was under control as usual but he wasn't alone now. He had me.
When we pulled back, and he said, "Okay, the moment is over. No more mushiness."
"Where's Catherine?" I asked. I hadn't seen my mom even when I arrived today.
"She takes ages to get ready," I muttered, my eyes falling on my watch. "You're one to talk," my brother shot me a look. "I don't take that long to get ready," I said, defending myself.
Just then, our mom walked in, looking stunning in a red dress that accentuated her curves. She was always classy and poised, even on difficult days. She gave my brother a look, and he smiled.
"I never imagined it would ever happen this way," she said, her voice filled with emotion. My brother nodded in agreement. "I never thought I would get married in the first place," he said.
I chimed in, "Same. I never thought you would get married." My brother looked at me, and I smiled. "Did I lie?" I asked, and he shook his head.
"Okay, family, let's get going," I said, breaking the tension. We nodded, and my mom smiled. "Let's do this," she said, her voice filled with determination.