Engaged to the Prince

"I frequently experience stomach aches."

"There are a lot of things that make me nervous. That doesn't have to come from love or sex."

It is clubbing. Having my best friend around helps. Happiness does.

But the news I'm about to hear is undoubtedly one of those things that doesn't make me anxious about trying something new or anticipating something exciting that is about to happen to me.

I never anticipated this. My jaws are still open in shock because I never imagined my life would take this turn, and I still struggle to believe it.

Mother starts by placing her hands on my thighs, jolting me back to the present while saying, "Vera, we know this will come as a shock to you but it's for the best." Father is seated across from me and has a serious frown on his face. He appears more flimsy than ever.

"We must revive your father's failing company. We had a lengthy discussion about it and decided that you should be aware of it. I believe that meeting now will help you two get to know one another better.

Now I'm at my breaking point. not because I'm dating someone. But also because I don't want anyone meddling in my affairs or dictating how I should live.

I abruptly respond, "No, mother," startling her. I pivot to face her directly. "I am not meeting anyone, and that is final."

Father calls out in a stern voice, "Vera." They aren't the focus of this; I am.

I mean, for crying out loud, I'm 23 years old. How is it possible for me to be engaged to a man my entire life and not even be aware of it? I am dating someone. My life is one that I adore. a way of living that makes me feel the right butterflies.

No, I'm not doing it.

Dad, I sincerely say, "I'm not doing this." "This is my life, and I get to decide whether or not I meet my alleged fiancée. For crying out loud, I have a boyfriend.

"I didn't mean to yell at my father, but here I am doing it anyway."

Mother scolds me angrily, her hands leaving my thighs, "I won't let you speak of my husband that way, you silly girl."

Did she just speak in favor of her husband? They were at each other's throats last night, and I didn't even bother to inquire as to what the issue was.

That is not my business; it is theirs, and I have no right to meddle in their matters.

Father and Mother haven't been getting along since his business failed. Mother is having a very difficult time adjusting to the new lifestyle he is providing for us.

I initially found it difficult, but I quickly adapted to new situations or surroundings. One of the simplest things for me to do is get used to being middle class.

"Really?" I sneer as I look down at her.

"Really. Do you want to lead this kind of life for yourself? When did we last go shopping, you know? When did we last throw a sizable celebration like we used to? I'm aware that it's not what you wanted.

"No," I chuckle. Not what I want, this. My mother wants to continue living this way, and she wants to do it by using me.

Butterflies are what I'm after. being in the moment.

Nick needs to stop lying to me, that's all I want. One of the last things I want is to get married at this age to some random people.

She starts to talk to me in that tone, saying, "You need to help your father, princess." She always asks me to comply in that hushed, seductive voice. Your father requires assistance. If we don't carry out our promise to get you married to their son, the Wise family won't support us. Just give it a shot; you'll like him.

"Mom, I have a BOYFRIEND!" I shout as I get up from the couch, my chest thumping furiously. For goodness' sake, "I have a boyfriend."