Chapter 8

My wedding morning arrived in utter silence.

I studied my reflection while the maids put final touches on my simple white gown.

It wasn't extravagant, just a plain yet elegant dress suitable for a court wedding.

My makeup remained minimal, my hair neatly pinned back.

"Are you prepared, dear?" Charlotte's voice came from the doorway.

I drew a deep breath and nodded. "Yes."

William stepped forward, his expression firm. "After today, you become Rachel Blake Crawford. There's no going back."

I swallowed the lump in my throat. "I understand."

We proceeded to Sebastian's residence where everything had been arranged.

A judge waited in the living room upon our arrival.

The butler stood rigidly in the corner while Sebastian's nanny adjusted his posture in the wheelchair.

Sebastian sat blankly, his eyes unfocused as he made soft, childish humming sounds.

He appeared completely unaware of the proceedings.

I suppressed a sigh as I took my place beside him.

The ceremony proceeded quickly, devoid of emotion.

"Do you, Rachel Blake, take Sebastian Crawford as your husband?" the judge asked.

"I do," I stated firmly.

"And do you, Sebastian Crawford, take Rachel Blake as your wife?"

Sebastian blinked. Then he released a small giggle and clapped his hands together.

Silence fell.

Heat rushed to my face in embarrassment.

"He does," the nanny quickly interjected.

The judge glanced at Sebastian, clearly uncomfortable, before continuing.

When it came time to sign the marriage certificate, Sebastian simply stared at the document.

The butler sighed and stepped forward, taking the pen to sign on his behalf.

I clenched my jaw.

This felt utterly humiliating.

Finally, the judge handed me the marriage certificate. "Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Crawford."

It was official.

I was married...to an invalid.

After the judge departed, my grandparents turned to me.

"Starting tomorrow, you'll be introduced to the company," William stated. "You'll reside here with Sebastian from now on."

Charlotte offered a reassuring smile. "You'll excel, dear. Just maintain patience."

Then, just like that, they left.

I found myself alone with Sebastian.

I sat before him, folding my arms. "Well, husband," I muttered. "It seems we're stuck together now."

Sebastian blinked, then reached out to poke my arm.

I sighed. "You don't even comprehend what's happening, do you?"

No response came.

I shook my head and stood. "Fine. If I'm living here, I might as well make myself useful."

I turned to the nanny. "You may leave for today. I'll assume his care."

Her eyes widened. "Madam, are you certain? He can be...challenging."

"I'll manage," I stated firmly.

She hesitated, then nodded. "Very well. Call if you require assistance."

After her departure, I knelt beside Sebastian. "Let's begin simply. Can you say my name? Ra-chel."

He stared at me, tilting his head.

I sighed. "Rachel. Say it. Rachel."

Nothing.

I retrieved a book from the table and opened it. "Perhaps pictures will help?"

Sebastian reached forward-and knocked the ink bottle from the table.

Ink splattered across my dress.

I gasped. "Sebastian!"

He giggled.

"You find this amusing?" I crossed my arms. "Fine. You want to play? Let's play."

I took his face and smeared ink on his cheek.

He blinked. Then, surprisingly, he laughed.

A genuine laugh.

I paused. This marked the first normal reaction I'd witnessed from him.

Feeling encouraged, I grabbed paper and handed him a pen. "Here. Draw something."

Sebastian stared at the pen in his hand. Then, slowly, he moved it across the paper.

I leaned closer, curious.

It appeared messy, mere scribbles.

"You're quite a mess," I muttered, standing. "Come on. Let's get you cleaned up."

I wheeled him to the bathroom and ran warm water.

The butler entered as I rolled up my sleeves. "Madam, I can assist-"

"I have it," I interrupted. "It's just a bath."

The butler looked uneasy. "But-"

"Look," I sighed. "He possesses a child's mind, correct? It's not as if he comprehends anything."

The butler hesitated, then eventually nodded and departed.

I turned back to Sebastian. "Alright, let's get you in."

I gently undressed him, lifting him into the tub. He made pleased sounds as warm water touched his skin.

I laughed. "See? Not so terrible, right?"

He splashed water with his hands, giggling.

I shook my head. "Despite acting like a child, you're not unpleasant company."

Certainly better than that ungrateful Liam.

I sighed, rolling my shoulders. Ink stains remained on my skin. "Guess I need bathing too."

I reached for my dress, pulling it over my head.

Just then, Sebastian's hand suddenly reached out.

His fingers brushed over the faint scar on my shoulder-the arrow wound remnant.

I stiffened.

Then-

A husky voice, rough and demanding.

"What?"

I froze.

Had he actually...spoken?