Heart Of Darkness

Chapter 7-

Angelica couldn't believe that her father threatened to throw her out of her home without seeing her brother. She knew he could be ruthless sometimes, but this was a whole new level of being heartless. What would she do now?

She turned in bed, unable to sleep.

"Is something wrong?" William asked who was sleeping next to her.

"No," she lied.

Even though she was facing the other way, she could tell that her brother didn't believe her.

"Is father forcing you to marry Sir Shaw?"

"Yes," she replied.

He was quiet for a long moment. "I told you, we are better without him."

Angelica turned around, disturbed by his comment.

"William is only doing what he thinks is best for me. The truth is, I need to get married." She explained.

"Then he should find someone you are content with."

That was the problem. She was never content.

"It is taking too long to find someone I am content with, and father is getting concerned."

"You don't have to make me like him. I am alright with liking you only," William said.

At first, Angelica was surprised by his words, but then she knew her brother. He could tell people's intentions, even when they didn't realise them.

She stroked his hair, "everything will be alright."

He closed his eyes as she continued to stroke his hair. Then eventually, he fell asleep.

Angelica stayed awake, thinking of what to do. Maybe she should go​​ to the King, but then do what? Unless he called for her, going to him was meaningless.

Where was he now when she wanted him to call for her?

Suddenly, she heard the wheels of a carriage outside, followed by her father's loud singing voice.

Angelica pushed the blankets aside and went to look outside the window. Her father was wobbling his way to the entrance. He was drunk again.

Angelica put her robe on and decided to go downstairs and meet her father before he caused havoc in the middle of the night. Once in the hall, she waited for him to come inside.

The stench of alcohol made her wrinkle her nose as he entered, singing loudly.

"Father, it is late." She told him.

He paused and looked her way.

"Angelica!" He called as if she was far away. "Come here!"

He waved for her to come closer, and Angelica went to him hesitantly. He put one hand on her shoulder and leaned closer. The smell made her only breathe from her mouth.

"We are doomed," he whispered next to her ear. "We. Are. Doomed. The devil has come for us."

Angelica had heard him name the devil a few times now.

"Father, the devil has always been here." She told him.

He leaned back, shaking his head, "but have you ever seen him?" He asked.

Angelica looked into his fearful eyes.

"I have," he whispered. "I saw him. He is...frightening, but he doesn't scare me. No, no." He shook his head and moved his forefinger side to side. "I will eliminate him. I won't let evil rule us."