Wed to a Wicked Warrior

Sarah Whitmore, 19 years old.

I am walking down the aisle. My heart is pounding against my chest as I am walking towards Jared Collins, the love of my life. He is looking devilishly handsome in his Navy blue tuxedo, and his hair is swept back like the prince charming.

Alright, so it's not actually my wedding day. And technically, I'm just sitting on my bed, lost in my own wild thoughts. But let me tell you, I've been obsessing over Jared since the third grade, and in my imagination, our wedding day is constantly playing out. I know, I know, call me a hopeless romantic or a certified weirdo, but hey, this is who I am - a dedicated dreamer!

"Jared," I whisper his name like a prayer. I imagined the way he would look at me on our wedding day, his warm brown eyes filling with pride and adoration, his strong hands holding mine with devotion and..."

"SARAH!"

My eyes snap open as my father's loud voice breaks the spell.

Dammit, I was just about to get to the good part!

"Sarah," my father's booming voice gets closer as he enters my room without even bothering to knock.

His tall, imposing figure fills the doorway, his tailored suit exuding authority and power. Thomas Whitmore is a man who demands respect and obedience, and I had always known better than to defy him.

"Daddy," I acknowledge, trying to hide the tremor in my voice. He is never one for idle conversation or heartfelt moments, so his presence in my bedroom can only spell trouble. "Is something wrong?"

"I need to talk to you, Sarah. I see you are still in bed," he says with a hint of irritation.

I almost roll my eyes, but I know better not to do that.

"Sarah, I have made a decision that will ensure the safety and prosperity of our family." His words are measured and deliberate, leaving no room for doubt. "You are to be married to Vincent Sterling."

Vincent who now?

"What?" I ask dumbly.

The name rolls off his tongue like a weight, heavy with significance and unknown meaning. "Vincent Sterling," he repeats, each syllable slow and deliberate, as if trying to imprint it in my mind.

My heart races as I try to make sense of the words. Who is this Vincent Sterling? And why am I suddenly being told that I am marrying him?

The air in the room takes on a suffocating quality, pressing down on me as I struggle to process the news. This cannot be happening. Not when I love Jared. But now, it seems my fate has been decided without my consent.

"What do you mean I'm marrying Vincent?" I nearly shout. "I don't even know who that is!"

"He is your husband, that's all you need to know," he says curtly.

"I am not marrying a stranger!" I cry out.

My father's face tightens with impatience. I've never spoken back to hum before, but this is about my life--my future. I don't want to marry just anyone. I open my mouth, "So please..."