Beloved

Chapter three: Drag me to Hell

Chapter three

Drag me to Hell

I felt awkward, sitting in Zev's hut with him and Neema. Not only was she beautiful, but she cooked just as good as Fayla. I couldn't even think up something to hate he for, so I just sat there in silence why they talked. They really were perfect for each. I was the odd one.

Zev whispered something to Neema.

She smiled. "So Raja, Zev and I have been talking, and we're getting married in a month. I know the elders prefer to wait until we have a child." She look to her fiancé. "But we've spoken to them, and they agree that it would be okay if you move in with us soon after the ceremony. We really want you to feel like a part of the family. But it's up to you."

I stared down at my bowl. All these years, this was what I had been waiting for, but I wasn't as excited as I expected. "I'd like that," I whispered. Shifting in my seat, I glanced up at Zev. "Thank you."

"It's so excited." She leaned over and hugged me. "Everything's coming together."

Zev puffed out his chest. "We'll be a family soon enough."

"Yes," I said softly. "A family." I sunk back in my seat and finished my bowl.

"How's your leg feeling?" asked Zev.

I ran over fingers over the bandages. "It's just sore. I'll be fine."

Neema smile. "That's good. We were so worried about you." She grabbed Zev's hands.

"Don't worry," I muttered. "I learned my lesson. It won't happen again."

Zev nodded. I knew he as still upset with me about running off.

"Well that's good to hear," breathed Neema. "It's hard enough to worry about Zev out there, let alone you."

My shoulders dropped. "Yeah..."

"You don't need to worry about me," Zev kissed her cheek. "I can take care of myself."

The two went on discussing different thing for the remainder of the night. Occasionally, they'd ask me a question or make a general comment I'd reply to, but they most talked about the upcoming wedding ceremony. I'd never have one. I would simple move from my father's hut to Zev's, and I'd officially become his beloved.

Once dinner was over, Neema packed up her things and headed for the door. I waited in my corner as Zev said his goodbyes and kissed her.

"Wait outside for a minute, and I'll walk you home."

"Alright," Neema slipped through the door.

"Zev," I said softly.

"Are you okay with this?" He helped me up.

I nodded. "I'm okay. It-it's exciting." I glanced up at him for a moment. "We'll get to be together soon, well at least live together."

"See everything is working out." He brought me closer.

"Can I stay the night?" I laid my head against his chest.

"Maybe another time." He brushed back my hair. "I need to walk Neema home. I'll see you tomorrow."

I nodded. "Kay."

He left, and I heard their voices fade away. I didn't think sharing was going to be this hard. Leaving the hut, I limped back home. I felt stupid, but I wanted Zev to walk me home not Neema. I slipped into the hut to find my family, relaxing around the fire.

"How was it Raja?" asked my father.

"She's nice," I said softly. "She'll make a good wife for Zev." I shrugged and went to my room.