“You’re getting married,” her father says sternly. “I’ve chosen you a worthy husband.” “What?” I flinch as if from a slap. “But I don’t want to get married.” “Look at yourself,” he snaps, irritated. “Who would need someone so defective? While you’re young, still possible to arrange—what next?” He wrinkles his nose and waves it off. “It’s a settled matter.” “I’m only eighteen! What did I do to you?” treacherous tears finally break through. “I don’t love him.” “I’ve said everything. The dowry for you has been paid. There’s no turning back.” “And I won’t!” I scream angrily and stomp. “I won’t marry against my will!”
*** My world, all my plans are collapsing. Tears blur my eyes, and in my memory is the crooked smirk of the Raven. He was the only one who could save me, but he became my downfall.
THE STORY OF THE RAVEN