Beyond the Gilded Cage

It was then I realized how subtle destiny and the suffocating weight of its iron grip. It was a battle, one I had yet to realize I was fighting…

In the resplendent whispers of the night skies, amidst the gentle patter of rain, my heart whispered its moonlit reverie. It sought not just a fleeting spark, but a head-over-heels romance—a love to withstand the test of time, replenishing its thirst of genuine love and passion. Fret dear nocturnal destiny, I, Vivienne, was born in a patrician household with a predetermined fate; to be bound in matrimony to a complete stranger, all at the behest of my parents' desire. It was a decree I can't escape, a fate perhaps experienced by the likes of me. The freedom I seek is now above the moon, it sucks to be a heiress.

As the sun casts its golden tendrils on a tranquil morning, I was awakened by the sudden ringing of my phone. My mom, Aurelia Collymore, renowned as the visionary proprietor of Collymore Airlines, reminded me of the gala, soirée deemed de rigueur for my attendance, where I would meet my future fiancé. With a bit of background—my parents arranged my engagement to Sinclair, a renowned familial surname. Despite my reluctance, I donned formal attire and accompanied my family to the gala, my inner turmoil concealed behind a facade of composure.

Even if I vehemently disagreed, fate's hand would guide me to the same destination.

Descending from our limousine, a cascade of camera flashes blinds us as we glide along the crimson carpet. It's a familiar view; after all, fame runs deep in our family's veins. Stepping into the gilded hall, I'm awestruck by its grandeur. Every face I encounter is a familiar one; either a renowned celebrity or a business titan connected to my family in some way. Whilst amidst the crowd, my eyes fixed on a group heading our way, led by a collegiate-looking fellow. "Sweetheart," mom said with a gentle smile, "I'd like you to meet someone.” "He is Zephyrion Jace Sinclair, scion of Lucas Sinclair, the heir to the Sinclair Law Firm throne, and soon your betrothal.” I looked at the guy, his warm eyes met mine, and a faint smile graced his lips. Yet, despite the gentle allure he exuded, I couldn't shake the unsettling truth: I felt no hint of affection toward him. His presence, though undoubtedly significant, failed to stir the depths of my heart in the way one might expect.

Destiny's weight now rests upon us, as our families have decreed we merge into one household to bind our fates. Though my heart harbors reluctance, I acquiesce to the arrangement. Bound by filial duty, I cannot defy my parents' wishes, a painstaking destiny indeed. Uncertainty shrouds whether Zephyrion shares my sentiments.

Zephyrion and I cohabit our home in separate rooms, hesitant to share a bed. Since both of us are still students, with Zephyrion entrenched in his law school, while I pursued the heights of aviation management in my final year, dreams taking flight with each passing day. Thus, it seemed only practical to maintain our individual sanctuaries. Despite the subtle boundaries we maintained within our shared abode, the dawn brought us together in our dining room. Each morning, like clockwork, we would meet each other at the table, our separate worlds briefly colliding in the soft light of daybreak. He’s even the one cooking breakfast every day, laden with warmth and sustenance.

Months drifted by, and amidst the ebb and flow of everyday life, I found myself falling, falling hard and fast, into the depths of his gaze. Whether it was a shared glance across the room or a simple touch of his hand, it sent a flurry of butterflies dancing in my stomach, leaving me breathless in its wake.

As the sun rose and set, painting the sky with hues of gold and pink, our conversations became the highlight of my days. We spoke more frequently, our words dancing between laughter and sincerity. It was as though every exchange brought us closer, bridging the gap that once stood between us.

All my life, it’s now changing every day. With him, I feel comfort.

One night, he knocked in my room, and snugged his head in the door frame, looking like a helpless puppy.