Chapter 15 Home

Skylar sat in the living room of her parents' house, the familiar surroundings offering little comfort in the face of unexpected visitors. She had barely settled in after returning home from university when the unexpected arrival of an elderly man, flanked by a pair of imposing bodyguards, disrupted her solitude.

The man introduced himself as Victor Lionheart, the patriarch of the Lionheart family—a name Skylar recognized from her mother's occasional mentions. He was the grandfather she never knew, a figure of authority and wealth in their region. His presence alone was enough to unsettle her, but what he proposed next threw her completely off balance.

"Skylar," he began, his voice carrying the weight of decades of authority, "I've come here to discuss a matter of great importance."

Skylar arched an eyebrow, her mind racing with possibilities. "And what might that be?"

Victor Lionheart leaned forward slightly, his expression serious. "It concerns a water treaty between our village and Blue Waters Village. A treaty that would secure water access for both communities for generations to come."

Skylar frowned, trying to connect the dots. "And what does this have to do with me?"

"You see, my dear," Victor continued, his tone measured, "Prince Zach of Blue Waters Village is in need of a bride. His advisors believe that a union between our families would solidify the treaty and ensure its success."

Skylar's eyes widened in disbelief. "You want me to marry someone I've never met, just to sign a water treaty?"

Victor nodded solemnly. "It's more than just a treaty, Skylar. It's about securing the future for our people."

Skylar scoffed, her frustration bubbling to the surface. "Forgive me if I don't see the connection. Why should I be sold off like some bargaining chip for a deal that benefits people I don't even know?"

Victor's expression hardened slightly. "Skylar, you are the granddaughter of my late younger brother. This marriage would not only secure the water treaty but also strengthen our family ties."

Skylar stood up abruptly, her voice tinged with anger. "I am not a pawn in your political games, Mr. Lionheart. I have my own life to live."

Victor raised a hand, attempting to calm the situation. "Skylar, please understand—"

But Skylar cut him off, her tone sharp and defiant. "No, you understand. I won't be used to further your agenda. If Prince Zach needs a bride, let him find one who actually wants to marry him. I don't appreciate being kidnapped by that spoiled man child either"

Victor's jaw tightened, his patience wearing thin. "You don't seem to grasp the gravity of this situation, young lady. The water treaty is crucial for the livelihoods of countless people."

Skylar crossed her arms, unyielding. "Then let them figure it out without involving me. I won't sacrifice my freedom and happiness for some grand political scheme."

The room fell into a tense silence, both parties staring each other down. Skylar could feel the weight of expectation and tradition pressing down on her, but she refused to capitulate. She had always been known for her stubbornness, and this was no exception.

Victor sighed heavily, his features softening slightly. "Skylar, think about the bigger picture here. Your cooperation could mean prosperity for our entire community."

Skylar shook her head, her voice unwavering. "I'm sorry, but I won't be coerced into this marriage. I have dreams and plans of my own."

Victor exchanged a look with his bodyguards before turning back to Skylar, his expression resigned. "Very well. I see there's no changing your mind at the moment. But consider this carefully, Skylar. This decision could have far-reaching consequences."

With that, Victor Lionheart and his entourage made their departure, leaving Skylar alone in the quiet of her parents' home. She sank back onto the couch, emotions churning within her. The audacity of it all—being expected to sacrifice her autonomy for the sake of some ancient pact.

As the evening wore on, Skylar found herself grappling with conflicting thoughts. On one hand, she was adamant about not allowing herself to be used as a pawn. On the other hand, she couldn't shake off the sense of responsibility that tugged at her conscience. Even bigger she was pregnant was she suppose to go into this mess with her child and then what. 'Oh hi Zach sorry to cuckold you with a Caucasian baby, while your almost navy blue, would you believe me if I said the skin colour, hair and DNA are a genetic mutation Was there a way to uphold her principles while also considering the needs of the community? Her being pregnant could make things worse for them, heads rolling worse.

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