The-Wrong-Bride-Ares--Raven’s-story-(Maura,-Catharina)_bibis

Chapter Nineteen
ARES
My four brothers stand by my side in the beautiful vineyard Hannah and I chose as our wedding
venue. Countless of Hannah’s friends are seated in front of me, all of them whispering to each other.
Their invite merely stated that they were jointly invited by the Windsors and the Du Ponts, but no
mention was made of a wedding. We did it that way to ensure our wedding couldn’t be crashed by
paparazzi, but it’s worked in our favor in more than one way.
I was meant to announce what they were here for the moment I took my place at the altar, but how
can I, when I don’t know who the bride will be?
“It’s for the best,” Lex says, and Luca nods in agreement.
“She might still change her mind,” I tell them, but they all shake their heads.
“She won’t,” Zane replies. “And someday you’ll thank her for it.”
Dion looks at me, his gaze pointed. “Whatever happens today, Ares, remember that you’re a
Windsor, and none of us choose our wives. It’s a tradition that’s served us well for generations, so
have some faith, okay?”
I grit my teeth and nod. “I’ll be sure to remind you of that when it’s your turn.” Dion is the only
one out of my siblings whose engagement was arranged years ago too. Even from here, I can see his
fiancee sitting in the back. I suppose it’s different for them, since Dion doesn’t live here. As far as I’m
aware, they only see each other when Grandma forces them to meet, and on special occasions such as
these. They’ve never dated, the way Hannah and I have.
Lex sighs and runs a hand through his hair. “Would it really be so bad to marry Raven? How about
I take your place?”
I tense, red hot fury rushing through me as I turn to face my brother. He takes in my expression and
smirks knowingly.
“What?” Lex asks. “Can’t stand the idea of Raven being with anyone else? I thought you didn’t
want her as your wife?”
“Fuck off,” I snap.
The boys all chuckle at my expense, and I turn to face forward, ignoring them. The mere thought of
Raven with Lexington pisses me off. I shouldn’t feel any possessiveness toward her, but I do.
Music starts to play and the doors swing open. Everything around me fades away as I wait with