Lakan stands for Tara
The Blacwaters were one of the strongest and most feared Mafia families in the whole of Tanke. They were known to have killed people for slight mistakes that tend fo humiliate their family name. The only family who come close to them in wealth and power were the Lockwoods hence this marriage was a strategy on their part to gain access to the family and eliminate the greatest threat to their power. The fact Tara is the only daughter of her father the first son of the present Lockwood generation gave them more advantages. Even at that, they would not easily drop their standard for anyone, especially in public places where other families are gathered.
One would hear a pin drop because of the present silence on the wedding ground. Tara had never felt so embarrassed in her life and on her wedding day of all days. She stood still observing everyone's reaction before she would give a reply. Most of the Blackwaters had a satisfied look on their faces that at least someone had taken the bold step to address the issue, her friends had angry looks on their faces but there was nothing they could do. Her mother standing beside her said nothing too. They were all expecting her to defend herself. She took a last look at Lakan who at this stage had removed his shade his eyeballs were red as usual. He had a straight look on his face not even looking in her direction but she knew he was staring at her from the corners of his eyes. That was his usual way of pretending not to have an interest in whatever she was doing.
"I am sorry, but I will not be wearing anything else. It is my marriage " Tara finally replied hardly raising her voice
Her reply seems to shock everyone in the Blackwaters family. No one dared reply Jezebel, for that was her name like that.
"I assume you don't know who you are talking to, you are talking to the heiress of the Blackwater family. You are to do as I say and not talk to me back " she barked visibly angry at her audacity of Tara to reply. Everyone other person was not speaking, they all seem to fear her.
Lakan observed with keen interest the drama unfolding before his eyes although. It had been the idea of his sister for Tara to be compiled to wear that particular dress so he wasn't offended when she refused to wear it, he was only surprised. All the times he had spent with her before now she came him the feeling of a timid person who will be unable to speak for herself. But now she sees a different person, who not only rejected the bride's clothes but was also putting on defense against his elder sister of all people. Not many people have the balls to do that. This new version was certainly interesting. The way she spoke to him on the phone was surprising to him but seeing it in action now was something different. Has she been pretending to be timid or what? Whatever it is, he liked this version of her, this is the kind of woman he needs by his side. Her beauty was also a big plus.
"I know who you are but you are not the one I am getting married to. Only my husband can tell me what to do" Tara said as she smartly decided to bring Lakan into the picture.
"What rubbish, take her outside and change those clothes from her body " Jezebel ordered immediately blowing hot.
Some guards moved to take hold of Tara. Tara's father made to speak as he would not be intimidated but before he could say anything Lakan intervened
" You dare not touch her".He spoke out calmly as the guards were forced to a stop.
" Let her be, she can wear whatever she likes" Lakan added while looking at her for the first time.
"But...
" No buts, she is my wife I have the final say on her as per tradition " Lakan replied this time exchanging a cold look with his sister. It was clear that there was some bad blood between them. If looks could kill Tara would have been dead because of the look from Jezebel. Since Lakan intervened there was nothing she could do. Tara noticed Mr. Blackwaters hardly said anything throughout the altercation.
She was glad Lakan spoke out for her. That is what she expected of her husband and it was a sign he cared for her even if he wouldn't admit it yet.
"We should carry on with the ceremony then, " Mr. Lockwood said as Tara and her mother move to take their seats. Tara beside Lakan and her mother by her side.
"Thank you" Tara whispered into the ears of Lakan as she sat down beside him to which he didn't say anything.
"You look beautiful," He said barely starting at her.
Tara smiled to herself, she was getting positive feedback from him. It was a good sign for her but then she also reminded herself that he was present when her family was killed so therefore she would not be easily swayed. She made sure to be very observant as the ceremony went on.
The marriage rites were said and every other thing went on smoothly as there was no other drama from anyone else. Everyone knew Jezebel would take her anger later on Tara probably when Lakan would not be there to save her. The Lockwoods were happy, especially Mr. Lockwood as he was happy his daughter now standing up for herself and his family business will stay within his family.
Tara was happy to see everyone in her family happy. She knew she still had a lot to do but then she was going to enjoy the moment. She barely exchanges words with Lakan
Suddenly she noticed Lakan stand up abruptly and formed a shield in front of her like he was about to embrace her. Before she could say a word she heard a loud bang from a gun, blood gushing out of the mouth of Lakan spilling onto her clothes. He had just taken a bullet intended for her.