Expensive Love

Stuck in a weird state: Part 1

With the dancing leaves, and the faint smile of the sun, you can't help but be enlightened by the scenery. The dashing water, rushes simultaneously with the blow of the wind touches your skin.

There, you can see a girl lying just beside the river.

Her hair was light blonde, with matching emerald eyes. She admires the beauty presented to her..A peaceful rush is heard by the river, whilst being orchestraed by mother earth.

Then a person walked towards the girl. He was about 14, two years younger than her.

He pats her shoulders and gently calls her name.

"Lady Anna." he smiled prettily.

"Lucas..?"

Anna was surprised because it's been long since they last met.

"Yes? I've missed you."

Anna gets up from the ground and hugs the boy tightly like a lover.

The boy responds with a gentle touch.

It continued for a moment, then Anna broke the ice. He pushes her body with his right hand with care.

"I've miss you too, but why the sudden visit?"

"Our parents... they will anounce something. Let's go."

It was unusual for him to mention his parents. So, I was worried. He has always been a timid boy.

"S-sure. But, are you okay? It has been ag-"

He responded with a smile then held my right hand to lead me the way.

When we arrived at the estate, we saw both of our parents engaged n a serious conversation.

'It seems like they are planning something.'

They were inside the dining area with my parents both sitted on the end of the table. And Marquis and Marquess Evans sitted on the right side.

"Anna Rosella Deborah, greets Marquis and Marquess Evans."

I bowed and greeted them.

Marquess Evans seems to be angered because of Lucas's rude manner. He gestured her hands from left to right to signal him to greet.

"Greetings, Duke Jonathan Francisco Deborah and Duchess Rosa Castella Deborah."

"Yes, it is our pleasure to meet you." said Duchess Rosa.

"Lucas, give lady Anna a seat." said the Marquis.

We both sat facing each other, while sitting beside our parents.

"Cough, cough. So, are you two ready for the announcement?" said the Duke while looking alternately between the two.

"Yes, father. I am well unaware of the current situation." replied Anna.

A moment of silence took place after Anna replied. The duke drank his bitter red wine, and said,

"You two are now engaged."

Anna was shocked and confused, after being isolated by her parents from the outside world... They now want her to marry her childhood crush.

Anna did not respond. While Lucas was completely calm as if he already knew what was coming.

"Oh dear, Anna. Don't worry your mother-in-law here will surely take care of you. I heard you like the nature so we-" said the Marquess to pursuade me.

"I object." Duchess Rosa suddenly interrupted. She said it loudly. Duchess Rosa looked angry.