After her heart

Chapter 1

*Chapter 1: The Unexpected Proposal*

Ava's life was turned upside down the day Marcus appeared at her doorstep. She had tried to put the memory of the market riot behind her, but the sound of his deep voice and the sight of his stern face brought it all flooding back.

"Ava, I've come to repay a debt," he said, his eyes piercing hers.

Ava's family gathered around, their faces filled with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. Ava's mother stepped forward, her voice trembling. "What kind of debt, sir?"

Marcus's gaze never wavered from Ava's face. "I owe her my life, in a way. She tended to my wounds during the riot. I'm offering marriage as a gesture of gratitude."

Ava's world spun around her. Marriage? To this stranger? She felt like she was being pulled into a nightmare.

Her family, however, seemed to see it differently. They exchanged worried glances, and her father nodded fervently. "We accept your proposal, sir. We'll make sure Ava is ready for the wedding."

Ava's protests were drowned out by the murmurs of agreement from her family. As Marcus turned to leave, Ava felt a sense of unease wash over her. What had she gotten herself into?