A Proposal in the Dark

Fulvia’s POV

Five years ago, back in high school, I helped a boy who was in a car accident. While trying to get him out, I lost my sight and was left with ugly scars on my face.

No one wanted to marry me.

My dad always told me I was beautiful, but I often asked him why all my dates ended up not wanting to marry me. I would tell myself, Even if I’m ugly, my dad would never admit it to me... and besides, I can't see my appearance because I’m blind.

Fulvia doing voice dairy

*****

Two years later...

“I want to know the truth about how I look,” Fulvia whispered to herself. She called for one of her maids.

“Emily, I want you to give me an honest review of how I look.”

“You look absolutely stunning, ma’am,” Emily replied quickly, her voice sharp and without hesitation.

“Emily... I know you. I can tell when you’re lying, you always talk fast when you do. You know I trust you, and I believe you won’t lie to me, right?”

“Yes, ma’am...” Emily answered, now panicking.

Fulvia took a breath. “Tell me... am I ugly? Don’t worry. Whatever you say stays between us.”

Emily slowly dropped to her knees, trembling. “Ma’am, I’m sorry... but if I’m to be honest... you’re very fat, and... you have some scars on your face.”

“Really?” Fulvia whispered. She touched her face gently, trying to feel what Emily described. So that’s what has been scaring my dates away...

“You may go, Emily. And keep in mind — no one will know you told me anything. So relax.”

“Okay, madam,” Emily said quickly and rushed out.

*****

Later that afternoon...

Fulvia’s dad came back from work and entered her room.

“My little beautiful princess, how are you? Hope you’re doing well?” Mr Kingsley asked with a smile.

Fulvia quickly wiped her face. “I’m fine, Dad,” she said, her voice breaking slightly. “Thanks for asking.”

Mr Kingsley noticed her tone. “Baby, are you crying? What’s wrong? Just because you're not dating or married yet? You're just 23. That’s normal. You’re still young and still my little girl,” he said, patting her gently on the head.

Fulvia wiped her eyes. “No, Dad, I’m not crying. Something got into my eye. I was even about to call Emily when you came in.”

“Okay, good to know you’re not crying, because I have some good news for you,” he said, acting a little secretive. “Want to hear it?”

Fulvia, sounding drained, replied, “You got me ice cream, right? Or chocolate? You can just leave it on the bed.”

Mr Kingsley chuckled. “Nope. You don’t even trust me anymore, huh? Anyway the young master of the Williams family, Henry, has sent a marriage proposal to you.”

Fulvia’s heart raced. “Dad, are you kidding me? Has he even seen me?”

Mr Kingsley held her shoulder. “Relax. Don’t panic. Yes, he’s seen you. He’s taken a liking to you, he’s even in the sitting room now. Come on, let me call Emily to get you dressed.”

“Emily! Emily!” he called out.

Emily ran in, frightened. “Y-Yes, sir?”

“Dress Fulvia up in a nice gown. And tell one of the maids to prepare a cup of coffee for our guest.”

Emily, now a little more relaxed, replied, “Okay, sir. Ma’am, let me help you get dressed.”

Mr Kingsley stood up. “I’ll be back in a few minutes. Emily, make sure to dress my daughter properly.”

In just two minutes, Fulvia was dressed. Her father returned and took her hand, guiding her to the sitting room.

“You look beautiful and stunning, Fulvia. just like your mother,” Mr Kingsley said happily.

Fulvia gave a small smirk.

*****

In the living room...

Henry stood up and gently helped Fulvia to the sofa. “Have a seat, Fulvia.”

A maid walked in placing a cup of coffee on the table and went straight back.

“Dad, may I speak to you?” Fulvia asked quietly.

“Yes, my princess,” Mr Kingsley replied, moving closer and leaning in to hear her.

“Are you sure about this?” she whispered.

“Of course, Fulvia. He was one of your classmates, remember?”

Fulvia turned slightly toward Henry and spoke in her soft, trembling voice. “Hello Mr Henry… are you really sure you want to marry me? As you can see… I’m blind and also—”

Henry interrupted gently, “Miss Fulvia, I’m absolutely sure. Please give me a chance to show you my sincerity. I would be so happy to have you as my wife. I’m waiting for your approval — even if you want us to get the marriage certificate now, I won’t hesitate.”

“Marriage without love can’t lead to a happy home,” Fulvia said calmly.

Henry knelt in front of her and took her hands. “I really love you. I promise to spend the rest of my life with you. Just give me a chance, and I’ll prove that you’re everything I’ve ever wanted.”

“It’s settled then. Let’s go get your certificate. You have my blessings,” Mr Kingsley said.

“Dad, don’t you think this is all a little too fast?” Fulvia asked nervously.

Mr Kingsley stood. “No, my dear. He loves you and that’s what truly matters to me.”

“Okay, Dad,” Fulvia replied slowly.

“Thank you very much, Mr Kingsley, for allowing me to marry your one and only daughter. It’s an honor,” Henry said respectfully.

Mr Kingsley smiled brightly. “No, no. start calling me Dad. I’m your father-in-law now, remember?”

“That’s true, Dad,” Henry replied quickly.

Henry held Fulvia’s hand and led her outside to his car. Mr Kingsley also got into his own vehicle.

“Sir, where to?” the driver asked.

“To the Civil Affairs Bureau,” Henry answered. After a short drive, they arrived.

Fulvia and Henry signed the necessary papers and documents. Then it was time to take their certificate photo. They stood in front of a red wall, dressed in white.

The photographer was stunned by the contrast, how handsome Henry looked, and how unattractive Fulvia appeared.

“One, two, three. smile!”

They took the photo and received their red marriage booklets. Fulvia spent a quiet moment holding hers, running her fingers over the texture.

Mr Kingsley beamed with joy. His daughter now had what she deserved, a caring, handsome husband.

A few moments later, one of the drivers brought out all of Fulvia’s luggage.

“Fulvia, make sure you’re happy. Eat well, and don’t think too much, okay?”

“Dad, why are you suddenly saying that? Aren’t you going to take care of me anymore?” Fulvia asked.

“Fulvia, what do you mean? You’ll be living with your husband from now on. Your luggage is already packed in his car,” her father replied cheerfully.

“Dad! What do you mean? You’re already sending me away so quickly?” she said, shocked.

Mr Kingsley patted her head. “No, my dear. You have to understand, you’re a married woman now.”

Henry joined in, “Dad is right, Fulvia. We’re married, and as a couple, it’s normal for us to live together.”

“Bye, Fulvia. I’ll visit you sometimes, okay? You two are a perfect match. I know Henry will take good care of you,” Mr Kingsley said, heading back to his car.

“Dad! Dad!” Fulvia called, but it was too late. He had already driven off.

Henry gently led Fulvia back to his car.

As they drove, Henry’s phone rang.

“Hello, Mum,” Henry answered.

“Henry, tell me you didn’t go through with your father’s crazy plan. Did you really marry that...fat monster?”