The grandeur of the Westwood family estate surrounded me as I sat in my study, the weight of my parents' words heavy in the air. Their offer sent shockwaves through my being, threatening to disrupt the life I had carefully built for myself.
“Alexander, we have something important to discuss,” my father began, his voice so stern that there was no room for negotiation.
 My mother sat next to him, her expression both worried and single-minded.
I leaned back in the comfortable chair, my mind racing with thousands of thoughts and emotions. What could they possibly want from me now? I have always been a filial son, meeting all their expectations. However, it seems that my obedience only increased their boldness. I leaned back in the plush chair, a smug smile on my face. I know exactly what they will say, another arranged marriage, another chance for them to secure valuable alliances and expand their empire. But this time, I won't play their game.
“We have been approached by the distinguished Montgomery family,” My father continued, his tone suggesting that this was a great honor bestowed on us. “They proposed an arranged marriage between you and their daughter, Emily.”
I let out a bitter laugh, the sound filling the room. "Oh, great," I said sarcastically, "another piece for your collection. So predictable. It seems my role in your strategy is predetermined, just like every other move in this calculated game you call life."
My mother's face was red with anger, her voice shaking with frustration as she tried to speak. “Alexander,” she began, sounding frustrated and imperious, “it's not just about making you happy. It's about keeping our family strong, ensuring we stay wealthy and respected in the world," she said with a hint of determination.
Standing up, I looked at them harshly, frustration and resentment boiling inside me. “You think I care about your future?” I shouted, my words filled with sarcasm and despite. “You made it very clear that my happiness means nothing to you. ” My voice grew louder, fueled by years of feeling ignored. "Okay, here's the deal: , I won't be your puppet anymore."
My father looked at me coldly and sharply, his voice filled with disdain as he stood up straight, showing authority. “You will obey our orders, Alexander,” he declared, his words carrying a clear final meaning. “This isn't up for discussion,” he continued, his voice firm and unwavering, eliminating any possibility of discussion. His imposing presence filled the room, as if daring me to question his authority.
A mischievous smile slowly spread across my face; the corners of my lips curved menacingly, and my eyes flashed with ruthless determination that sent shivers through the room.
"Oh, Father," I muttered, savoring each syllable with cruel satisfaction, "You have underestimated me. I am no longer the obedient son you once knew."
The words were filled with cruel despisement, emphasized by my sharp tone. “I'm tired,” I continued, enjoying the moment, “Of living in your suffocating shadow, mercilessly controlled by your insatiable ambitions.”
The agitation in my smile deepened as I reveled in this revelation, a cold satisfaction covering me like a black cloak. “The time has come,” I said, the cruelty in my voice evident, “For you to witness the arrival of the son you never expected—the one who will be greater than you, free from your stifling expectations.”
His expression hardened, his features deepening into a mask of stern authority, and his hands tightened on the armrest, his knuckles white with tension. "Greater than me ?" He scoffed, disbelief evident in every syllable as he shook his head in disbelief. “You think you know better than us?” His voice was filled with disappointment and anger, mixed with a bit of wounded pride. “We worked tirelessly to build this family, to provide for you, to give you every opportunity to succeed,” he continued, his words ringing with the weight of years of sacrifice and dedication.
 “Don't you dare destroy everything we've put our hearts and souls into,” he warned, his intense gaze piercing me like a dagger. “You may think you're ready to stand on your own, but you'll soon realize the weight of the world beyond these walls, the harsh realities that await you." Her voice rose higher, tinged with her parents' disappointment, but her fierce anger remained unwavering. “Think carefully before deciding, you will regret it, Alexander."
"The Montgomerys will arrive tomorrow," my mother declared. "You will meet Emily Montgomery, the woman chosen to be your wife."
With those final words, I stood up, my body trembling with anger and rebellion. I will not let their cruelty define me; I will not bow to their twisted desires. I will create my own name, free from the shadow of their manipulation. With that, I left the office, leaving my parents in a cloud of their own viciousness.
Meet Emily Montgomery, a sweet lady with a fiery spirit, whose kindness shines as bright as her fierce passions.