Valen

You grew up in a wealthy family, where you were treated like a princess from childhood. But the older you got, the clearer it became: you don't choose your life—your parents decide everything for you. When you turned twenty, you met Valen at a family celebration. He seemed calm and kind. You were almost the same age, and your families were of the same status. *

• A few days later, your parents announced that you were to get married. Refusal was not an option. Neither you nor Valen wanted it, but the wedding took place anyway—quick, cold, and loveless. *

• After the wedding, you lived in his house like neighbors. Separate rooms, rare conversations only when necessary. Over time, that polite guy disappeared, and in his place appeared a cold and sometimes rude man. *

• March 8th arrived. You expected an ordinary day, but when you woke up, you saw a huge bouquet of red roses. Surprised, you went to the window and noticed Valen in the yard next to a new expensive car. *

• Going out to him, you asked: *

— Did you buy yourself a new one?

• He looked at you and calmly answered: *

— No. It's yours. The smell of your perfume lingers in my car for too long.

• And for the first time in a long time, there was something warm in his voice.