Time Weave Dreams

Chapter 4: Fire and Divination(II)

Alex also tasted Sophia's dishes, and a glimmer of light flashed in his melancholy eyes. He found that Sophia's dishes were not only delicious, but also had a special temperament, which was the love of life and the pursuit of beauty. He began to take an interest in the new cook, and her appearance seemed to bring a little difference to his life.

As time went on, Sophia's position in the manor became more and more stable. Her cooking skills and personal charm made her an indispensable part of the manor. She not only won people's stomachs with her dishes, but also won their hearts with her sincerity and enthusiasm.

In the garden of the manor, Sophia sometimes walked alone, her eyes fell on the blooming flowers, and her heart was full of longing for the future. She knew that although her life had undergone earth-shaking changes, her dreams and passion had never changed. She believed that as long as she insisted on her passion, nothing was impossible.

Alex stood in the study of the family manor, and the bookshelves around were filled with dusty family records and historical documents. The sun shone through the heavy curtains, dappled on his face, illuminating the melancholy in his eyes. His fingers gently slid across the yellowed books, which witnessed the glory and secrets of his family and carried the burden of generations.

"Alex, what are you still hesitating about?" His father, the owner of the manor, stood at the door with unquestionable authority in his voice. "You are 34 years old. According to family tradition, you must complete the ceremony before the age of 35."

Alex turned around and faced his father's eyes, his heart full of resistance. "Father, I don't understand why we have to stick to these ancient traditions? Why can't we choose our own path?"

His father frowned, and his expression became stern. "Are you questioning the wisdom of the family? These traditions are the foundation of our family and the key to maintaining our status and glory. As the heir of the family, you have the responsibility to maintain it."

Alex was silent, he knew that any rebuttal would be futile. His father was always like this, insisting on tradition and not questioning it. He was in a heavy mood, and his eyes revealed melancholy. He knew he had to obey, but his heart was silently crying out for freedom.

In the following days, Alex began to visit nearby towns, participated in various social activities, and tried to find the right person at banquets and dances.

Alex's heart was full of contradictions. On the one hand, he knew that this was his responsibility and his obligation to his family; on the other hand, he didn't want his life to be bound by such traditions.

At a banquet, he met a woman of Scottish descent, whose beauty and elegance attracted his attention. However, when he talked to her, he found that she was also bound by the family tradition, and her eyes also revealed a desire for freedom. Alex realized that he could not build his future on the pain of another person.

Late at night, Alex walked alone in the garden of the manor, and the moonlight was like water, sprinkling on his figure. His mood was like this night, quiet and confused. He looked up at the starry sky, and those distant stars seemed to be winking at him, as if asking him: "Are you really willing to give up your life and ruthlessly hurt another innocent life?"

He was struggling in his heart. He knew that if he chose to obey, he might lose himself; but if he chose to resist, he might lose his life. He felt unprecedented loneliness and helplessness.

Just then, he saw Sophia's figure. She was busy at the kitchen window, and her figure looked particularly warm under the light. An inexplicable warmth surged in Alex's heart. He remembered his conversation with Sophia, and her frankness and sincerity left a deep impression on him.

He walked into the kitchen quietly and saw Sophia preparing a midnight snack. "Aren't you resting yet?" he asked softly.

Sophia turned around and saw Alex, with a hint of surprise in her eyes. "I'm used to going to bed late," she replied with a smile, "What about you? Are you still walking in the garden so late?"

Alex walked to her side and looked at the work in her hands. "I'm just thinking about something," he said in a low and sincere voice. "Sophia, do you think we can really choose our own path?"

Sophia stopped what she was doing and looked at him seriously. "I believe we can," her voice was firm and powerful. "Although it is sometimes difficult, as long as we stick to our dreams, we will find our own way one day."

Alex was deeply touched by her words. He looked into Sophia's eyes and felt an unprecedented power. He knew that he had to make a choice and that his life could not be defined by his family's traditions.

Alex left the kitchen with determination in his heart. He knew that he would face a difficult struggle, but he also knew that he had to fight for his future.

Sophia looked at his back as he left, her heart filled with mixed emotions. She knew Alex's struggle, and she hoped to help him find his own way.