Unlucky Marriage

Chapter 2

Emma's POV

I could hardly breathe when my uncle said, "Emma, you got a marriage proposal from a family, and we are considering it." The shock hit me like a punch, leaving me speechless.

"WHAT? Are you serious? I’ve never even thought about marriage! I’m not ready!" The words tumbled out, my mind racing. The idea of marriage felt foreign, like a distant planet I was never meant to visit.

"Sweetheart," my mom said, her sympathetic gaze piercing through my shock. "This is a surprise, I know. But you’re at that age now. And your sister... well, we need to think about her too."

Her words twisted in my gut. I could hardly fathom why anyone would want me. I’d spent my life feeling unworthy, scarred by disappointments that had convinced me I was nothing special. The idea of being chosen felt surreal—almost laughable.

"They’re a good family, well-off and reputable," my uncle added, as if trying to reassure me. "I’m not sure why they chose you." I could see the disbelief in his eyes; they echoed my own feelings. How could anyone see anything worth marrying in me?

"And they don’t want dowry or anything; they just want to meet you," he continued. Suddenly, it clicked—this proposal was less about me and more about easing their own burdens.

Growing up without a father, I often felt like a burden myself, a lingering doubt that haunted me. Yet, my mom had always been my rock, my unwavering support. "Emma, let them come and see you. If it doesn’t feel right, we won’t push you," she said with a smile. Her faith in me was a comfort, but still, I felt trapped.

So, with a heavy heart and a sense of resignation, I agreed. They would be here in two days to see me.

As my mom dove into preparations, her excitement was palpable. I didn’t quite understand it, but I couldn’t help but feel a flicker of happiness seeing her joyful.

Desperate to share my turmoil, I called my best friends, Aanya and Lakeesha. They were my safe haven, my constant support.

"Hey babe!" Aanya answered, her energy infectious yet annoying at this moment.

"Hey girl," Lakeesha added. I loved them both, but I needed them to focus.

"Listen, I have something serious to tell you," I said, trying to gather my thoughts.

"Whoa, serious talk first thing in the morning?" Aanya teased, but I interrupted her before the laughter could build.

"Guys, listen. I got a marriage proposal today. The family is coming in two days."

Their response was immediate. "WHAT?"

I spilled everything—the proposal, my fears, the overwhelming pressure. They listened intently, their concern palpable. "Are you ready for this?" they asked, I didn’t have an answer.

We talked for what felt like hours, their reassurance a balm to my frayed nerves. Whatever happened, I knew I wouldn’t face it alone, and that thought provided a glimmer of hope amid the chaos.