TRAPPED IN VOWS

Lillian's birthday celebration took place on a beautiful night that sparkled with kind affection and laughter. Her uncle, Mr. Rogers Smith, had organized a birthday party for Lillian, intending to give her a gift that he had promised. Lillian had especially been looking forward to her birthday because she had been wondering what the gift her uncle promised her could have been. As she ruminated over the past years, she realized how much the demise of her parents had taken a toll on her, but she was not going to let the thought take the most of the day; she was set to enjoy the moment. Lillian stood at the middle of the breathtaking space, exuding elegance and festivity, her smile radiant, her heart soaring. Twenty-three today. A new year of possibilities, of love, of adventure. She invited George, her boyfriend, to the party, intending to tell her uncle, Mr. Rogers Smith, about her lover, even though her uncle had seen them together on various occasions. Her fingers toyed with her well-fitted dress as she scanned through the crowd for him—George. He had not arrived yet, but he would. She had told him it was important for him to come to the party, that she had something to share with her uncle, Mr. Rogers Smith. Her uncle had promised her a special gift. If only he knew her gift to him was just as special. She glanced over at Mr. Rogers Smith, standing at the far end of the garden. He was speaking to his friend Mr. Alex. Beside him stood a young man—tall, well-built, his expression unreadable (It was Clemen, Mr. Alex nephew) Her uncle looked into her eyes, grinned, and held up his glass to her. Her spine tingled at something in his eyes. As the evening went on, there were many happy discussions and toasts to Lillian's future. Mr. Rogers Smith took the stage as guests turned their attention to him. Ladies and gentlemen, he began, his deep voice commanding silence. Tonight, we are here to celebrate my beloved niece, Lillian. A bright young woman, full of promise and beauty. He paused, his eyes scanning the guests before landing on her. And what better way to honor such a special occasion than with a gift that will secure her future? Lillian smiled hesitantly, expecting something extravagant, perhaps a car or even a property. But when Mr. Rogers Smith motioned for Mr. Alex and Clement to step forward, she became more curious to know what exactly the gift is. I am pleased to announce, her uncle continued, that Lillian has been promised in marriage to Clement. The garden echoed with a murmur, with some people clapping courteously and others exchanging startled looks. When Lillian's arranged marriage was revealed, her body tensed up in shock and dismay. Promised? She felt a cold rush of confusion run over her. The room blurred, and her knees became almost feeble. She stood startled as she turned to her uncle. What did you just say? She asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Mr. Rogers Smith beamed as if to say she expected Lillian to just accept it even without her prior knowledge. You are to be married to Clement. This arrangement has been made in your best interest, my dear. A union that will bring strength to both families. Her hands trembled. “No. That’s impossible. You can’t just decide this for me!” Lillian exclaimed. Lillian, her uncle’s voice turned firm, his smile unwavering. This is for the best. Clement is a good man. After inhaling deeply, Lillian spun around frantically in an attempt to find George. With his hands fisted at his sides and his jaw tightened, he stood at the edge of the crowd. Her eyes met his gaze; she hoped George would understand that what happened at the party was never her intention. George, a very loyal and protective lover of Lillian, stood amazed by what he just witnessed. Her lover is about to be given in marriage to another man. Lillian had invited him to witness her birthday so she could humiliate him, George thought. He felt sad and betrayed by the only person he had remained passionately in love with. Tears almost rolled down his cheeks, but he would not let them down; rather, he dropped the gift he came with and walked away. George! Lillian called after him, her breath caught in her. He didn’t stop. She took a step forward and was about to go after George, but her uncle grabbed her wrist. Let him go, Mr. Rogers Smith said smoothly. It’s for the best. Lillian shoved her hand away. She turned to walk away only to find Clement standing there silent—not smug, not proud, just watching her. This isn’t happening, Lillian whispered, shaking her head. I don’t even know him. You will, her uncle said. Lillian stepped back. A series of thoughts running through her mind. Her life, her choices, her love, taken from her in a single moment. She had always known her uncle, Mr. Roger Smith, for his ruthless and cunning acts. What he called a surprise gift has ruined her day and is about to tilt her life to another course entirely. Her heartbeat pounded in her ears. This wasn’t fair. This wasn’t right. She fought back the tears that burned behind her eyes. As she rushed past the visitors, she turned around, her dress glinting on the shiny floor. Mr. Rogers Smith called after her. Lillian, where are you going? She didn’t answer. She only knew one thing: she had to get out, and she had to find George before it was too late. Lillian storms out of the party, determined to find George. Sweat beaded on her forehead despite the cool air in the car. Her fingers gripped the steering wheel so tightly, and she took a deep breath. She set the car racing, determined to find George. But when she reaches his home, she finds his door slightly opened. Inside, the place is empty except for a single crumpled note on the table. "Forget me." She stares at the paper, her hands trembling.