suits. My eyes, however, were fixed on one figure-Eve. She moved with a grace that belied her young age, a delicate balance of poise and innocence. Her long white hair flowed down her

d looked my way while handing me

observing how different men tried their best to talk to her

her is trying to g

g to court Eve filled me with a possessiv

you should set ey

This was her eighteenth birthday, indicating that she was ripe enough to pluck. Our e

breathe calmly, looking at all these predators? I felt a sur

ll. I knew Eve would try to slip away as she always did. My heart pounded with anticipation. Tonight was the

owed her, my steps silent on the polished marble floors. She headed to the playground, now empty and still under the b

orward, making my presence known.

de with fear and curiosity. "Who are

id, keeping my voice gentle. "I've been meaning to talk to you." The

suspicion. "Why? What

ase. "I want to help you, Eve. I

eyes. After a few minutes, she furrowed her brow

on. "And you think I want you in some

ha

cheeks stain red. A girl at her age would interpret this in many ways. I was sure she had

s still danced with suspicion. She looked around. "W

a whisper. "Indeed, but yes, only to the

resolve wavering.

prize, a possession to be owned," I explained. "Bu

hing for the truth in my words.

moment I had been preparing for. "I want to

ing at me. For some reason, her eyes didn't want to waver fr

sing moment. She looked really determined to get away from me. Placing my right hand under my j

ng my hands to my lips, i tried to catch my breath. Why is he here? It's the same man-t

ders. No, it's not the first time a handsome man has talked to me. But this man, he didn't mention marriage. He just wanted to be friends?

ed. She opened the door and smiled. "How are you feeling?" She s

guilt for my earlier lies. Her mother

mething we m

scu

have heard abo

welling up within me. "Mother," i stood up. "I to

ve

I even select who I want?" I looked at her, di

e, a strange voice made

dsome figure of Lord Vasile. He had red hair, such an odd color, and eyes t

are

you are r

asile. He has come to discuss a proposal."of course, it's always about marriag

so make

with fear, fear that my family wi

with an air of confidence. "I've heard much about

now you."I speak, trying to act tough, it's clear, h

ave you two to talk. Please, Eve, just hear him out." Wi

is sudden, but I assure you, I have your best interests at heart." He smile " in

my nerves. "Why should I believe that

know that you long for freedom, for a life be

ism clear. "By marrying me an

do what I said earlier, you will be free to d

dn't shake my mistrust. "And what

o have." He step closer " one more thing, nobody will be allowed to touch you, you will not permit any man close to

will he really get out of this? One thing is certain, If I trust him,

I nod " i