Snippet #2107852

Raven looked back down with the smile still on her face when Decker had finished talking to her. When he mentioned taking her out to see his garden, she felt a small rush of excitement, but also nausea. The rose. The rose. Think of the rose. she repeated in her head, gently twisting the stem of it between her fingers. She probably knew it was all futile, though...Because whenever she didn't force herself to think back to that fake beauty, she became caught up in the romance; in the idea of being loved and cherished by this wealthy, good-looking, kind man...But it would never be love, would it? How could it be? He has three other brides, each more beautiful and confident than her. Granted, one of them was a child. But still...If he were to love any of them, really love, she would definitely not be his final choice. She doubted she'd even cross his mind.
She lifted her eyes occasionally to the other brides that were speaking, but she was too lost in her own mind to register most of what they were saying, but her head lifted entirely when Shelby left the table. Maybe she'd be the one he falls for...Men always seem to chase after the challenge, don't they? But she truly seemed to hate him, so if he did, that love would be unrequited.
No, the one he'd most likely be happy with is Valentina. She was beautiful beyond words, with poise and confidence. Any man would fall for her...And she doesn't have that level of hatred for Decker as Shelby has, so of course it'll be her.
With an inaudible sigh, Raven dropped her gaze back down to her lap.

((Okay, I'm back. Let's do this. :D ))