The proposal

*A FEW MINUTES EARLIER*

Theo accompanied Maria into the dining hall after father had said he had something important to discuss. Something didn't feel right, Jackson couldn't tell if his father was tense or pretending to be. In a while, they were at the lush green scene behind the buildings, his favorite place inside the mansion. He remembered sneaking out on late evenings to throw himself upon the soft grass as they cuddled him deeper, making the best blankets. He did this to feel like he was in control, like he could at least do something that he wanted to do. Theo was the person who watched out for his father's arrival and snuck him back into his room whenever he lost track of time.

Those were the few good times that he could remember.

Jackson's father took steps in sync with Jackson's, tucking his hands inside his pockets. He released them with a shrug and dropped them to his sides. Jackson wanted him to talk already, staying next to his father made him seeth in silence.

"I