A LOT LIKE LOVE

CHAPTER 1 agreement. Luka's eyes narrowed as his parents watched him in their opulent living room. "Son, it is time to discuss your future," said the father in a calm voice. Luka gathers, He knew where he was going. “Your mother and I arranged Kate's marriage to you, the daughter of our family friend. Luka's eyes widened in protest. "An arranged marriage?" he repeated. His mother's expression turned stern. "It's a traditional Luka, it's time to calm down." " Luka felt suffocated. He had always known this day would come, but he had hoped to delay it. "I need time to think," he said, There is no time. The engagement ceremony takes place in two weeks. "Luka's world was shattered. He had never met Kate, he had never seen her. How could he marry someone he didn't know, but his parents and their expectations weighed on him. He nodded reluctantly. "I will go and do it." Little did he know that his life would change forever. Two weeks passed in a blur as Luka prepared for the engagement ceremony. He still hadn't met Kate and his anxiety was growing every day. What if they had nothing in common? What if shi’s not happy with this arrangement? The day of the ceremony arrived and Luka’s family home was busy with activity. He stood in front of the living room, adjusting his traditional dress. His mother approached with a sweet smile on her face. "Luka, it's time to meet your future wife." Luka took a deep breath and walked into the living room. Kate stood before him, beaming in her lace dress. Her black hair fell down her back and her bright smile lit up the room. Luka's heart skipped a beat. He didn't expect her to be so beautiful. Kate's eyes met and for a moment they just stared at each other. "Hi," he said softly. Luka's voice caught in his throat. "Good afternoon." " Their hands touch as they exchange traditional gifts. A spark of electricity coursed through Luka's body. Can't deny the attraction. But is this arranged marriage enough to make it work? As they sit together for the ceremony, Luka can't help but look at Kate. She looked confident, determined. He wondered what was behind his apparent calmness. The ceremony is over and they are officially engaged. Luka's parents were beaming with pride. But Luka's mind was full of questions. What did Kate really want? Was she happy with this arrangement? And what future did she have for them? The ceremony ended and the hall erupted in cheers and applause. Luka's parents embraced Kate, welcoming her into their family. Luka, still reeling from his sudden engagement, stood awkwardly next to her. Shall we go for a walk? Kate suggested in a melodious voice. Luka nodded, thankfully for a narrow escape. As they walked through the gardens, Luka struggled for words. Kate broke the silence. "I have to admit, I was nervous to meet you," she said. Luka's eyes met her. "I was nervous too," he admitted. Kate's smile faded for a moment. "I know these arrangements can be uncomfortable,"she said. Luka's heart was touched by her. "I understand," he said. They walked in silence for a while. The only sound was the rustling of leaves. "What are you doing, Kate?" " Luka asked, curiosity piqued. I am studying to be a teacher, she answered. Luka raised his eyebrows in surprise; Kate's eyes sparkled. I love children. Luka's mind was filled with questions. What else did he want to know about her? Returning to the party, Luka felt an uneasy feeling. As they returned to the party, Luka felt a sense of trepidation. He had underestimated Kate. She was more than just a beautiful face. She had substance. And he couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead for them. The days passed quickly, with Luka and Kate settling into an uneasy routine. They meet for dinner, exchanging polite conversation. But Luka felt a depth in the delay that he could not reach. One evening, as they sat down to dinner, Luka's mother brought up the subject of children. and "You two will make beautiful children," he exclaimed. Kate's smile faltered. "Mom, we just got engaged," Luka interjected. Her mother's expression turned stern. "Tradition dictates that you start a family soon." Kate's eyes flashed with determination. "I want to finish my education first," she said. Luka's mother frowned. "A good wife prioritizes her family." Luka felt a surge of protectiveness toward Kate. "Mother, Kate has a right to her own aspirations," he said. His mother's face softened. "Of course, dear. I just want what's best for you both." But Luka knew his mother's words hid a deeper expectation. He glanced at Kate, seeing the tension in her shoulders. "I think we should discuss this further," he said, taking Kate's hand. As they excused themselves, Luka felt a spark of connection. He was beginning to understand Kate's strength. And he admired it. Luka and Kate walked hand in hand, escaping the suffocating expectations. "I'm sorry about my mother," Luka said. Kate's smile was wistful. "I understand. Family can be...complicated." Luka sensed a depth to her words. "What do you mean?" he asked. Kate hesitated. "I have dreams, Luka. Dreams that don't fit into traditional expectations." Luka's curiosity piqued. "Tell me," he encouraged. Kate's eyes sparkled. "I want to open my own school. Provide education to underprivileged children." Luka's heart swelled. "That's amazing," he said. Kate's face lit up. "Really? You think so?" Luka nodded. "I do. I'll support you every step of the way." Kate's smile faltered. "But what about our families? They'll expect me to prioritize our family duties." Luka's determination grew. "We'll face them together. We'll make our own path." As they stood there, hands entwined, Luka felt a connection deepen. He saw Kate, truly saw her, for the first time. And he knew he wanted to be the one to help her achieve her dreams.