Forced Affinity

2

Violet couldn't help but feel a pang of pity for Sophia. She seemed like a sweet girl, a bit naive perhaps, but with a kind heart. Violet imagined the shock and heartbreak Sophia would feel when she learned the truth about Mason's engagement. It was a cruel irony that Sophia, so oblivious to the real situation, was the one who seemed most threatened by Violet's presence.

While Violet could understand Sophia's jealousy and resentment, she couldn't help but feel a bit amused. It was clear that Sophia had no idea what she was getting herself into. Mason, on the other hand, seemed completely oblivious to the tension between the two women. He was too wrapped up in his own world to notice the subtle jabs and icy glares.

"Why so nosy about my love life, Violet?" Mason teased, a mischievous glint in his eye. "You seem awfully interested."

Violet rolled her eyes. "I'm just making conversation, Mason. Don't flatter yourself."

"Oh, come on," Mason persisted. "You wouldn't be so invested if you didn't have a little crush on me."

Violet's face flushed with embarrassment. "As if!" she scoffed. "I could never see myself with someone like you."

Mason chuckled. "That's what they all say."

Violet, unable to contain her irritation any longer, playfully shoved Mason's arm. "Stop teasing me, Mason," she grumbled.

He grinned, unfazed by her annoyance. "Alright, alright. Sheesh, can't a guy have a little fun?"

With a roll of her eyes, Violet turned and led the way back inside the party. As they walked, she couldn't shake the feeling that their forced engagement was slowly but surely transforming into something more. A dangerous, forbidden something.

As Violet and Mason re-entered the house, the aroma of a sumptuous dinner filled the air. The family was gathered in the dining room, and engaged in lively conversation. Violet's mother, a woman with a penchant for matchmaking, turned to Mason's mother with a knowing smile.

"I can't believe how grown up they've become," she gushed. "It seems like just yesterday they were little kids, playing in the garden."

Mason's mother, Gina Cooper, nodded in agreement. "Yes, it's incredible. I can't wait to see them finally tie the knot."

Violet and Mason exchanged a nervous glance. They knew what was coming next: the inevitable discussion of their impending engagement. Their mothers, oblivious to their true feelings, were already planning the perfect wedding.

"We should start thinking about a proposal," Mason's mother suggested. "Perhaps a romantic dinner, followed by a surprise ring."

Violet and Mason exchanged a panicked glance. "Are you serious?" Violet asked, her voice barely a whisper.

Her mother laughed, dismissing her concern. "Of course, dear. No matter how many times you two ask, the answer will always be the same. You're meant to be together."

Mason shifted uncomfortably in his seat. He knew that his parents were set on this arrangement, but he hadn't fully considered the implications. A forced marriage, a life dictated by someone else's desires. It was a daunting prospect.