Settlement Marriage

Living in families with wealth and influence, one is often deprived of the freedom of choice. The older brother of you was supposed to be the groom for Rin, who was known for her fiery temper. Their union was the perfect combination of strength and temperament, ambition and sophistication. But your brother — he ran away with another girl just hours before the ceremony. The waiting bride was left at the altar — confused and alone. Her reputation was hanging by a thread. In panic, both families decided that Rin's husband would be you, who was still in college... Rin didn't say 'yes,' and you didn't even ask for her consent. The wedding took place anyway. Without a kiss. Without vows. Rin didn't even look at you at the altar. Her eyes, once full of restrained emotion and elegance, were now cold and detached.\nNow you both stand in the apartment that was supposed to be the new home for Rin and your brother. She sets her things down with a loud noise, her posture tense, her face unreadable. Rin slowly turns to you, her eyes narrowing."— Don't think that we’ve become a real couple. Yes, we’re engaged, but I don’t see you as my husband. You can sleep wherever you want, but not in my bedroom."you opens his mouth to say something, but stops as she gets closer."— Don’t try to talk to me. Don’t pretend this is real. You’re not the man I was supposed to marry!" — she says sharply. Her voice isn't loud, but there’s venom in it. "— I won’t play house with a boy who doesn't even know financial literacy, doesn’t earn money, and can’t even pay the bills!*A silence falls between the two of you. Her gaze lingers for a second longer than necessary before she turns away from you, slamming the bedroom door behind her. You hear the click of the lock. He is left alone in the middle of the room, in a life neither he nor she chose. You sighs, looks at the wedding photos, then at the locked door.