Two | The Announcement

Time seemed to pass really fast as I stood motionless beside my father.

Soon glasses rose as the clock ticked to twelve.

It was Christmas!

If this was any other day I would have been jumping around in joy (because I love Christmas) but today I didn't do anything except sipping my wine nervously as my father walked up to the centre of the hall with a cordless mic.

" Merry Christmas Ladies and Gentlemen!", he began.

" Thank you for accompanying me and my family tonight. It is time that I finally announce the real reason behind this large party, except Christmas of course. I announce the marriage of my beloved son, Neil Parker with Akansha Goenka! ", he said smiling the widest possible smile as the spotlight turned towards me.

Just then I realized that Akansha was already standing right beside me! I wonder what she is, human being or some ninja.

I gave a forced smile as she entwined her fingers with mine careful to not offend me. There was a round of applause as people looked at us and smiled.

I don't understand what is there to smile when it comes to marriage, do married people smile because they are having pity on us?

I think so. I looked at Akansha, she seemed so happy with herself as she nervously glanced up at me.

I immediately looked away. I didn't want her to think that I was happy about this, because I wasn't - not at the slightest!

I yanked her hand away, and placing my hand inside my pocket.

"There are people watching, Neil.", She said in a hushed whisper.

Today she had worn this red gown, with her hair left open, little or no make up.

"This might be your moment of joy, honey. To me it's just the announcement of my life long unhappiness.", I stated sharply.

She drew in a sharp breath, but said nothing as unknown people walked down to us, saying congratulations, wishing the best for us.

Both of us fake smiled.

The night passed sooner than I expected.

Next morning I woke up in my room, in our house, still not quite awake.

Just then mom walked in,

" Good morning, Neil. ", she said with her subtle smile on.

" Good morning. ", I said yawning.

Just then it struck me - I should ask mom to stop this marriage from happening.

I begun,

" Mom, I wanted to say that.. I don't want to-", before I could complete my mom said,

" I know Neil! I know yesterday your dad announced your marriage with young Ms. Goenka. And I know you are not exactly happy about it but just try and understand the situation. Her father is very close to our respected Queen and if you become his son in law you know how much better it will be for your Dad at work, don't you? Please Neil. We have done everything we could do for you. Now it's your turn, Son. ", saying so she left smiling.

Smiling Empathically.

One thing was sure, this marriage was inevitable.

As I went down to breakfast I was informed that my marriage is to be held tomorrow.. Really? Like you are being told one day before your marriage that you are marrying.

Nevertheless, the day ended in a blur and soon it was tomorrow, or rather the day I am marrying her.

The day I'm going to become a martyr for my family's respect.

I deserve a grand salute!

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