After her heart

Chapter 2

*Chapter 2: The Unwilling Bride*

The days leading up to the wedding were a blur of activity. Ava's family was ecstatic, making arrangements and preparations with an enthusiasm that made Ava feel like she was losing her mind.

"Ava, isn't this exciting?" her mother asked, beaming with joy. "You're going to be married to a wonderful man!"

Ava forced a smile, feeling trapped. "I'm just a little overwhelmed, Mom," she said.

Marcus, on the other hand, was a constant presence, calm and collected. One day, as they sat in the living room, going over the wedding details, Ava turned to him and asked, "Why are you doing this? Really?"

Marcus's gaze met hers, his eyes unreadable. "I've told you, Ava. I'm grateful for your help during the riot. I want to repay you."

Ava raised an eyebrow. "By marrying me?"

Marcus's expression didn't change. "It's a gesture of goodwill," he said. "You'll be taken care of, Ava. You'll want for nothing."

Ava felt a surge of frustration. "That's not the point," she said. "The point is, I don't know you. And you're asking me to spend the rest of my life with you."

Marcus leaned forward, his eyes locking onto hers. "I'll take care of you, Ava," he repeated. "You'll be safe with me."

Ava wasn't convinced, but she knew she had no choice. The wedding was happening, whether she liked it or not.

On the day of the wedding, Ava stood in front of the mirror, her heart heavy with uncertainty. She wore a beautiful white gown, but it felt like a disguise, a costume she was forced to wear.

As she walked down the aisle, she caught Marcus's eye, and for a moment, she thought she saw a glimmer of something there, something that looked almost like kindness.

"Do you, Ava, take Marcus to be your lawfully wedded husband?" the minister asked.

Ava's voice was barely above a whisper. "I do."

Marcus's hand closed around hers, warm and strong. Ava felt a shiver run down her spine as he leaned in to whisper, "Don't worry, Ava. I'll take care of you."