Duty or Desire

The grand ballroom of the luxurious Majestic Hotel was a sight to behold. Crystal Chandeliers, their facets glinting like diamonds,hung from the ceiling, casting a kaleidoscope of colours across the room. Lavish drapery,in a rich ivory hue, adorned the walls, and intricate floral arrangements, featuring rare and exotic blooms, decorated the tables.

The atmosphere was opulent,yet tense. Brittany, resplendent in a lace gown that seemed to shimmer in the light,stood at the altar,her eyes fixed on the floor. Her hair,a rich chestnut hue,cascaded down her back like a waterfall, and her makeup was flawless, accentuating her porcelain skin. Ethan, dashing in a black tuxedo, stood beside her, his jaw clenched and his dark blue eyes narrowed resentfully under his brows.

Their parents, beaming with pride,sat in the front row, unaware of the unease between their children. They had been the brain behind this ARRANGED MARRIAGE,as Brittany had always called it. They hadn't thought about the aftermath of everything, they hadn't for once stop to think about their feelings,her outraged mind cried.

Gregory, Ethan's best friend watched with a somber expression. He had been his childhood friend and their bond waxed stronger as they grew. He knew his friend was not ready for marriage but there was nothing he could do to salvage him from the situation he found himself.

Dora watched with a mixture of excitement and concern. She was Brittany's maid of honor and was her personal assistant in her office. They shared secrets and soon became best of friends.

The priest chants, the ritual unfold, and they exchange vows. But Brittany's heart isn't in it. She's going through the motions, trapped in a union that feels like a prison sentence.

As they exchange the sacred garland, Ethan's fingers brush against hers. It's a fleeting touch, but it sends a shiver down her spine. She feels a sense of dread,a sense of uncertainty. What does the future hold for them?

The reception that followed was a lavish affair, with champagne flowing like water, and a live band playing a selection of classical and contemporary music. The guests,a mix of friends, family, and acquaintances,mingled and chatted, their faces a blur of smiles and polite conversation.

Brittany and Ethan barely spoke, their communications limited to forced smiles and fake laughters. They danced a waltz, their movements stiff and awkward, their eyes fixed on some point beyond the crowd.

As the ceremony ends, their parents embrace them, beaming with pride.

"Congratulations, Brittany!" Brittany's mother exclaims, tears in her eyes. "You're now part of an amazing family".

Ethan's father claps him on the back ."My son, you've made me proud. Brittany, welcome to our family".

Brittany forced a smile, feeling like a puppet on strings. They took photos, exchanged gifts and went through the motions of a wedding celebration. But Brittany's heart was heavy,her mind racing with thoughts of rebellion. Ethan's heart seemed to bore into hers with contempt. Brittany glared back,her anger simmering.

The limousine ride to Ethan's house was a silent one. Brittany stared out the window,her mind a million miles away, while Ethan fidgeted with his tie. As they turned into the driveway, Brittany's heart sank. The building was grand and imposing,a testament to Ethan's wealth and status.

The limousine stopped in front of the house, and Ethan got out and mounted the stairs. The first thing Brittany noticed as she got down was the garden. The meticulously manicured lawn, with each blade of grass precision-cut to create a velvety expanse of emerald green.