09

I was so mad at everything Thomas is trying to force me to do that I agreed to go to a party with Kelly, which I never do. Is not fair. I always do everything right, I'm a good daughter, a good student. And for what? To be sold into marriage to a gruff man who only wants revenge on my father.

"It's not his fault, it's yours!" I say and lift my chin even though I just want to run away from him giving me that intimidating look. “You were the one who decided to punish me when I didn't do anything.

Thomas tilts his head to the side and gives me a warm smile that confuses me. He reaches across the table and grips my fingers. His hand is warm and soft and somehow makes my body relax.

“It was your father who chose this, Cecilia. He could be a man and pay for his mistakes. But he chose to sell you to me, didn't he? He would rather you suffer for the rest of your life than go to jail as is fair. I feel my eyes fill with tears and Thomas pats my hand. “No, honey, don't cry. Everything is fine.