War Against Love

They Say

Chapter 6

Jack firmly squeezed my hand as he pushed open the front door to my family's manor. There was a slight groan as the wood gave way. The lights were on and when we entered the lobby Carol was sitting on a wooden dining chair reading a book. She looked up slowly, her eyes surveying both Jack and me. She didn't say a word, but stood from where she was seated and walked into the adjoining room. Within a few seconds both of our families came rushing in.

"Eva!" My mother practically screeched failing to keep her composure.

My father looked sternly at Jack and said, "Where did you take my daughter?"

Before Jack could speak I answered, "We just took a drive along the coast father. It's no big deal." I ended with a chuckle hoping to lighten the mood.

"No big deal?" My mothers voice was level now and she spoke with a deeper tone. "We had no idea where you two were? Going off alone at a time like this!" She ran her hand through her hair and turned her back towards me. My mother slowly walked to the staircase and used the railing to support her.

I noticed that Edward and his father were standing towards the back of the lobby as my parents questioned me. Mr. Winters stared at the ground, but Edward's gaze shifted between Jack and me. I felt like he was piercing through me. It was as if he knew exactly what we had done and knew how we felt about each other.

"Mother, you and father and everyone else were busy with the party. Jack and I wanted to grab some fresh air. Really, it's all quite innocent I would say." I started to shift away from Jack hoping to convince them that it was all in good fun and nothing more.

"I wasn't referring to the timing of the party, Eva." My mother grumbled out her response.

Once again, an awkward silence filled the room.

"What your mother is referring to is your engagement."

"Engagement?" I couldn't help but raise my voice in surprise.

This time Edward stepped forward, passing my mother and father, coming closer to me. When he stood directly opposite he said, "We are to be married."

My heart dropped. My cheeks burned. I could feel tears brewing on the edge of my eyes. I looked desperately at my father, but he wouldn't meet my gaze. My mother, too, wouldn't look at me. Carol had left the room a while ago. Jack stood quietly by my side.

I began to pant as I said, "I don't want to be married. Mother! Father!" I screamed with all my might hoping it would awaken them from their far off looks.

"When was this arranged?" Jacks gravely voice cut through my hysterics as he directed his question at Edward.

"It's been in the works for a while, Jack. That's why I came to the party tonight. This was to be Eva and I's introduction."

My heart continued bumping against my chest the blood muffling the sound to my ears. I could feel my skin transition into a clammy state and I knew I was going to be sick. I gripped my chest and ran past Edward and up the stairs making my way quickly to the rest room.

"Why is this even necessary? Why don't you marry Carol? She's older!" Jack asked desperately.

"Don't be silly, Jackie boy. I chose Eva and she will be mine." Edward's dark eyes thinned at he glared at Jack.

"Father! This can't be serious!"

Mr. Winters finally spoke up, "Mr. Hoffman and I agree that it is time for Edward and Eva to marry. With Edward lined up to take over our family business we thought it would be the most beneficial for him to be partnered with her." Mr. Winters paused for a moment and then looked Jack in the eyes, "I just think it is better for her to be with someone who has ambition and goals." He placed his hand on his sons shoulder trying to cushion the blow.

Jack shrugged away. As I stood at the top of the stairs I heard him yell, "So you're turning this into a business deal? This is all about money?" When Jack's questions weren't matched with an answer he swiftly turned and headed for the door. He looked at his father one last time, "It's always a business deal with you." With that he slammed the large oak front door. I could hear his car peeling out on the gravel road.

I walked slowly to my room and quietly closed my door. I stared out of my window at the now fully lit sky and could feel my heart begin to break piece by piece. Outside the birds were chirping and nature was coming alive. However, inside I felt my soul start to die. In the distance, I could hear my door opening. A voice was speaking but I hardly heard the words it was saying.

Carol's shout broke through my thoughts. "EVA!"

I turned around and looked at her. My face was stained with the marks of tears. Carol didn't offer anything other than a scoff.

"Please, Eva, as if you have it so bad." She said as she took a seat on my bed.

I rolled my eyes and stared back out the window. The sun streaked my face and the warmth attempted to comfort me.

"What is so bad?" Carol asked exasperated.

I didn't answer, so she continued, "You are marrying one of the richest men in this country. He will set you up for life, not to mention set our family up even more. Don't be so selfish." Her last sentence pierced me.

A small fire of rage began to turn inside of me. I turned and looked at her. She jumped slightly. I am not sure if there was a look in my eyes or if it was because of the sudden movement, but for some reason her fright made me happy.

"Just because you've failed at being a daughter and getting married, doesn't mean I have to settle and do what you couldn't." My voice was poignant.

Carol tipped her chin up, smoothed out her skirt, and briskly walked from my room. The closing of my door brought relief and I collapsed on my bed beginning the first of many days spent sobbing until no more tears would come.