Isolation at the Heart of Marriage

ed her ears as she took each step, her heart fluttering in anticipation. It was hard to believe that this was happening, just three months after they first met. His grandmother had intro

leman. His proposal had come exactly one month ago, and now they

air perfectly styled, and his sharp features illuminated by the soft glow of the church lights. Her heart beat faster, the rhythm of it almos

, burning anger that seemed to cut through the moment. It was so stark against the smile he wore that Erica nearly

ter, were all smiling, sharing the joy of the day. But despite the festive air, Erica's heart thudded uneasily. She turned her gaze back to Arnold, trying to reassure herself. The anger in

rica Binder. She was on top of the world. Her family and friends cheered as they made their way out of the church, and

a kiss to them through the window. They had all wished her the best of luck, but deep down, she couldn't sha

g her toward the hotel with a level of care that made her feel like the luckiest woman alive. His arm was warm and strong around her, and

knowledging everyone, but saying nothing. The silence between them was thick, like a delicate bubble that might burst at any moment. Erica didn't want to s

as almost as if he was holding on to something that didn't belong to him, as if his mind was elsewhere. Erica looked up at him, but he

Candles flickered softly, their light reflecting off the sea of roses scattered across the floor. The

n onto the bed. The softness of the sheets beneath her body contrasted sharply with the coldness in his eyes

wedding night. She tried to sit up, but Arnold was already speakin

er lov

her chest, and for a moment, she couldn't breathe. Never loved her? But

ndma forced me. She threatened to disinherit me if I didn't. I don't know how you poisoned her

. Erica couldn't move, couldn't speak. She was trapped

nded that I make you think I loved you. It made me sick, but I won't let someone like you ruin everything I'

ll play the happy newlywed role in front of everyone, but don't think fo

like the room itself was shaking. Erica didn't even

the door behind him with such force that the sound reverberat

s, the weight of his words sinking in. She had married a m

she been