Star-Crossed Lovers Of The 1850s (JJK ff)

CHAPTER 15

As Edward guided Louisa through the crowded ballroom, they finally reached the grand stage, where the guest had gathered to witness their engagement, a union that would cement the General's family legacy and secure their position among the elite.

Alexander General, Louisa's father, beamed with pride, his eyes shining with satisfaction as he gazed upon his daughter, her beauty and elegance undeniable, yet his joy was not shared by all, for amidst the sea of smiling faces, one person stood out - Jonathan, Louisa's brother, whose expression was somber, his eyes clouded with concern, his heart heavy with the knowledge that his sister's heart wasn't in this union.

Jonathan had witnessed Louisa's secret glances at Jungkook, the quiet intensity of her emotions, the way her eyes sparkled when she thought no one was watching, and he knew she was madly in love with the young servant, but societal norms forbade their love, casting a shadow over their happiness, a chasm between their castes seeming insurmountable - the Catholic caste, to which they belonged, was considered the highest, while Jungkook hailed from the lower Anthics caste.

The consequences of their love being discovered would be too brutal to contemplate, the weight of tradition and social standing silencing Jonathan, his heart aching for his sister, trapped in a gilded cage of expectations, longing to be free, yet bound by the chains of duty and obligation.

As he watched Louisa's forced smile, Jonathan's resolve strengthened, his determination growing, for he vowed to find a way to support his sister, to uncover a path that would lead her to happiness, though the journey ahead seemed treacherous, fraught with danger and uncertainty.

The General's voice boomed through the hall, echoing off the crystal chandeliers, "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, it is my honor to present my daughter, Louisa, and her fiancé, Edward," the room erupting into applause, a cacophony of congratulations and well-wishes.

Louisa's eyes met Jonathan's, a fleeting message passing between them, a spark of hope, a glimmer of desperation, a silent plea for help, and Jonathan's heart went out to his sister, his love and loyalty unwavering.

The engagement ceremony proceeded, a grand affair, with Edward's smile gleaming, his eyes triumphant, but Jonathan's gaze lingered on Louisa, his sister, trapped in a loveless union, her heart belonging to another.

The General's voice boomed through the hall, echoing off the crystal chandeliers, as he announced the commencement of the engagement ceremony. "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, it is my honor to present my daughter, Louisa, and her fiancé, Edward."

As the applause subsided, Edward took Louisa's hand, his eyes locked onto hers with an air of possessiveness, his smile radiating confidence and satisfaction.

The Archbishop stepped forward, his robes a majestic blend of gold and crimson, exuding an aura of reverence and tradition. "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the engagement of Louisa and Edward, a union that marks the beginning of a lifelong journey together."

His voice resonated through the hall, filling the space with solemnity and gravitas, as he began the ceremony. "This engagement represents the joining of two noble families, a bond of love, loyalty, and mutual respect. It is a promise of a future filled with hope, joy, and prosperity."

As the Archbishop spoke, Louisa's thoughts focused on the gravity of the moment, the weight of her promise, and the expectations that came with it. She felt a sense of trepidation, a flutter in her chest, as she gazed at Edward.

Edward's grip on her hand tightened, his eyes never leaving hers, his smile unwavering. "My dear Louisa, from this day forward, I promise to love, cherish, and protect you, to stand by your side through life's joys and challenges."