Quicksand

Chapter 17

As I stood before the mirror, the reflection staring back at me was breathtaking. My eyes sparkled, and my skin glowed with a radiant light. The maids burst into the room, their urgent whispers weaving a gentle chaos. With deft hands, they draped me in a stunning black gown that accentuated every curve, transforming me into a vision of elegance.
As I admired the flawless fit of the dress, the maids scurried around me, their skilled fingers weaving intricate braids into my hair. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the soft hum of excitement.

"Today's the day," one of the maids whispered, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

I took a deep breath, my heart racing with a mix of emotions. What was happening? Why the rush?

"Where am I going?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
No body answered.

My mind whirled with questions, but before I could ask another, the maids ushered me out of the room.

My heart sank as our eyes locked. Adrik's piercing gaze seemed to bore into my soul. His chiseled features seemed cold and distant.

"You look stunning, as always," he said, his deep voice low and even.

I felt a shiver run down my spine as his eyes roamed over me, taking in the black dress and intricate braids.

"What do you want ?" I asked, trying to keep my tone steady.

Adrik's smile was enigmatic. "Our engagement is today, my dear.

Suddenly, the room seemed smaller, the air thick with tension. I sensed hidden agendas and unspoken threats.
Adrik's eyes never left mine as he closed the distance between us. I retreated, my back pressing against the cold wall. His presence was suffocating, yet mesmerizing.

"You can't run from me," Adrik whispered, his breath caressing my skin.
Adrik's eyes glinted with warning as he closed in, his voice dripping with malice. "We have guests waiting downstairs to behold the perfection that is my fiancé," he sneered, his breath hot against my skin. "And I expect nothing but absolute compliance. One misstep, one whispered defiance, and the consequences will be catastrophic."

His gaze burned with intensity, as if daring me to challenge him. The air thickened with tension, heavy with unspoken threats.

My heart raced, pounding against my ribcage like a trapped bird. Sweat trickled down my spine as I struggled to maintain a facade of calm.

"Who are they?" I stammered, my voice barely audible.

Adrik's smile twisted into a cruel grin. "Influential allies, eager to meet the woman who's captured my heart." His eyes mocked me, their cold calculation sending shivers down my spine.

The sound of footsteps echoed outside, growing louder. Adrik's grip on my arm tightened.

"Remember, my dear," he whispered, his lips grazing my ear, "tonight, you will be the epitome of elegance and obedience. Any sign of rebellion will be... dealt with."

His words hung in the air like a guillotine, poised to drop at the slightest misstep.

"What about my mother?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

Adrik's expression turned cold, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Don't worry about her," he said, his tone dripping with condescension. "She's... with company."

A chill ran down my spine. What did he mean? Was she safe?

"Who's with her?" I demanded, trying to keep my fear in check.

Adrik's smile grew wider. "People who will ensure she behaves," he said, his voice dripping with menace. "Just like you."

Suddenly, the door opened, and a stern-looking woman entered. "It's time, sir," she announced.