This is my life now. Who would have thought that at nineteen, I would be walking down the aisle, getting married to a man whose heart belongs to another woman? I'm only here to wear the ring and play my part in a union arranged by my parents.
I had always dreamed of this day as a little girl, praying that God would give me a man who would love and cherish me. It seems that prayer didn't go through. I see no possibility of a love story here, so I dare not dream. As I gaze into the eyes of the most gorgeous man I have ever laid eyes on, there is no spark, no passion, no love—only a mutual understanding of our duties. I never imagined that going on a so-called blind date would lead to this…
Flashback: Five days ago
"Mom, what am I hearing? It's not true, right?"
My mom didn't say a word, but the expression on her face said it all.
"Mom, I don't understand what's going on. I just got back from class, and the first thing Layla said to me was that I'm going on a blind date. I thought it was already decided that Layla was the one going—or are you and Dad planning to send both of us?"
"Your sister is not going anymore," she said calmly. "So you are going. Prepare yourself. You are meeting him after your morning class tomorrow."
"What? Why?"
"Don't ask stupid questions. You already know the reason. We owe the old man a big favor, and he asked for a blind date for his grandson."
"Mom, that is not what I was asking. Why am I the one going instead of Layla?"
"Your sister is already in love with someone else. She has been crying all day, begging us not to send her, so your dad decided to send you instead. Is no big deal since the old man didn't request for any of you specifically."
"Really, Mom? How can you use the word 'in love' when she only met the guy once? And the funny part is, the guy doesn't even know she exists. Honestly, I think this is becoming an obsession. Layla needs a therapist—"
"Don't say that about your elder sister!"
"Sorry," I said nonchalantly.
"Mom, about the blind date, I'm not interested in going..."
"Stop right there. There is no negotiation. You are going, and that is final."
"But Mom..."
"No 'but.' This conversation is over. Go wash up and call your sister for dinner."
With that, my mom turned away and began checking the dishes the chef had prepared.
This is how my life has always been. Being the younger one, I'm always the one doing what Layla doesn't want to do, and I can't even complain. It is so unfair. I angrily stomped my foot on the ground like a child and walked out of the kitchen.
Later at the dining table, everyone ate quietly. I hesitated, wondering whether I should speak up or not.
Leah, just say it. Maybe he forgot, I encouraged myself.
"Dad, you still haven't gotten me the new iPad you promised for my birthday."
Before he could respond, Layla cut in excitedly.
"Daddy, I want you to get me the newest Ferrari—296 Speciale A—as an early birthday gift."
"Sweetie, that is..."
"Thanks, Daddy! I know you would. I love you so much. Can I get it next week? My friends are planning a road trip. I will need it before Tuesday."
"Okay, sweetie. You will get it on Monday."
"Aww, Daddy, you are the best dad ever! I love, love, love you!"
I rolled my eyes. She said that every single time Dad granted her wishes.
I turned back to him and smiled. "Dad, what about my iPad? When am I getting it?"
"Leah, can you stop disturbing Dad about that iPad?" Layla snapped. "Every time, all we hear is 'iPad.' Can't you just wait till your birthday? You already have one."
"Layla, I was talking to Dad, not you. And I wouldn't be asking if he had just gotten it for me."
"Leah, don't talk to your sister like that," Dad said sternly. "Stop behaving like a spoiled brat. I will get you a new iPad on your next birthday."
"That is next year. You promised me last year that I would get one this year."
"Leah, manage the one you have till your next birthday," Mom said. "Can we eat in peace now?"
"But Dad gave me the same promise last year, and I still don't have a new one. Why does he have to wait for my birthday when I need it for school? I know I'm not your favorite daughter, but you don't have to make it so obvious."
I stood up. "I'm done eating. I will be in my room."
"Sit back down," Dad ordered. "And continue eating your food stop behaving like a spoil little girl."
"I'm full," I murmured, scoffing as I walked away.
Later, I sat at my desk, ready to start my assignments, but my thoughts refused to cooperate.
Ugh! I really need to look for a job.
If I keep waiting for Mr. Anderson, the world will end before I get a new iPad. But how do I get a good-paying job without my degree?
Life is really hard.
The next morning, as the driver took me to university, I was lost in thought throughout the ride.
My day felt overwhelming—morning classes, a blind date, job hunting, and a presentation at 2 p.m.
"Leah! Leah!"
"Huh?" I snapped out of my thoughts. "Is everything okay, Mr. Joe?"
"Yes, we are here."
"Oh! Already? Thanks, Mr. Joe."
As I stepped out of the car, he added gently, "Leah, you seemed lost in thought the entire drive. Are you okay?"
Chapter 1
"I'm fine. No need to worry."
"Have a nice day. Focus on your studies and don't overthink anything. You will be okay."
"Thank you, Mr. Joe. See you later. Bye!"