Threads Of Fate

Preparations

The sun rose over Attenborough Manor, casting a golden hue across the sprawling gardens. But inside, the atmosphere was heavy with dread. Anthony paced the drawing room, his fists clenched in frustration, while Edward stood by the window, his heart sinking as he watched the Duke's carriage approach.

The Duke stepped out, his presence as imposing as ever, a smug smile plastered across his face. He adjusted his coat, exuding an air of confidence that made Anthony's stomach churn. "Good morning, gentlemen!" he called out, his voice dripping with mock cheerfulness. "I trust you're ready for the day's events?"

Edward's jaw tightened as he turned to face the Duke. "Please reconsider, my Lord. Should you have to force my sister through such an ordeal?"

The Duke chuckled, unfazed by Edward's anger. "Oh, but I do. The physician will ensure that she's fit to bear children after our honeymoon. Isn't that delightful? I can't wait to see her all swollen up with my child growing inside her. My palace would be so lound and entertaining with all of our children"

Anthony's disgust boiled over, and he stepped forward, his voice low and dangerous. "You think this is a game? You're treating her like a piece of property!"

The Duke waved a dismissive hand, his smile unwavering. "Property? No, no, my dear Anthony. Anya is my future wife, and I intend to make sure she fulfills her duties. A healthy heir is paramount, after all."

Edward felt a wave of sadness wash over him, knowing that his little sister was being dragged into a life she didn't choose. "You're a monster," he spat, his voice trembling with rage. "You think you can force her to do all this."

The Duke's eyes glinted with amusement. "Oh, I can and I will. You see, gentlemen, this is how the world works. Power and control. And right now, I hold all the cards. Unless well you both would rather be in jail. Edward for financial reasons and you, Anthony, for plotting to kill me."

As the Duke turned to the door, ignoring Anthony's intense glare, Anya appeared, her face pale and resigned. She looked at Edward and Anthony, her eyes filled with a mixture of fear and determination. "I'll be okay," she whispered, though her voice trembled.

"Anya, don't do this," Anthony pleaded, stepping closer his eyes pleading. "I'll find a way to save you and Edward. I have the resources but I just need some time."

Anya smiled sadly," Time, Anthony, is something we do not have."

The Duke interjected, his voice sharp. "Enough! Anya, we're leaving. You don't want to keep the physician waiting, do you?"

With that, he grabbed her arm, pulling her towards the door. Anya glanced back at Edward and Anthony, her heart breaking at the sight of their anguish. "I'm so sorry," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Don't apologize," Edward replied, his eyes filled with unshed tears. "I should be the one apologising. This is all my fault"

The Duke dragged Anya outside, leading her to his carriage. Anthony and Edward stood frozen, fury and helplessness coursing through them as they watched the scene unfold. The Duke opened the carriage door, and Anya hesitated for a moment. She closed her eyes and imagined Anthony's lips on her, as he kissed her passionately in the garden yesterday, his emerald eyes, the eyes that illuminated her dreams, shone with a raw passion that filled her with warmth.

The Duke shot her a glare, his patience wearing thin. "Enough of this nonsense! Get in, Anya."

With a heavy heart, Anya climbed into the carriage, the weight of her decision pressing down on her. The Duke followed, a triumphant smile on his face as he settled beside her. "Let's go, shall we? The physician is waiting, and I can't wait to hear the good news about our future."