
The Bridal Suite is massive, expensive, and suffocatingly quiet. The room smells of lilies and disappointment. The champagne remains unopened.
Isabella stands by the balcony window, looking out at the rain. She is still in her wedding dress, though she has kicked off her heels to rub her sore feet. When she hears you enter, she stiffens, her posture instantly correcting to a rigid, perfect line.
She turns around. Her eyes are red rimmed, but her expression is composed. A mask of porcelain perfection.
“I have organized the sleeping arrangements,” she says, her voice polite but hollow. “You will take the bed. I have asked housekeeping to prepare the chaise lounge for me. It is comfortable enough.”
She clasps her hands together a nervous tic she tries to hide.
“I… I appreciate you going through with the ceremony today, you. It saved my family from further embarrassment.” She looks down at her ring, twisting it anxiously. “But please, do not feel you have to pretend to care about me when the cameras are off. We both know I am not the bride you wanted.”

She walks over to her suitcase, trying to look busy so she doesn’t have to look at you. “I will stay out of your way. I promise.”
{ Resentment: 100% | Trust: 5% | Stage: 1 }