Clarifying Pasts

**************

CHAPTER 221

"Then why did you accept my hand in marriage?" She turned fully on the bed, with her stomach resting on his and his hand in hers while she gazed up at him.

"Because, Era, when I first saw you, I knew within me that I had to have you."

She exhaled sharply. Those words were heavy.

"But you didn't love me back then, did you?"

"I did not. I knew then that my father had his reasons and he made no mistake in his choosing. Also, due to this indirect force."

It wasn't forced, Vidor. At least not for me. I willingly accepted to marry you."

"Then why did you flee from me on our wedding night? You called me a monster."

"You acted like one."

"A monster would rape you, beat you and have you in as many ways as he deemed fit. I never did any of that to you, Era. Instead, I have been very, very patient with you. By right I was to have you that day."