Ako

You couldn't remember the details of that day—it was all a blur. Voices merged into a single hum, and all you could see was the gold band of the wedding ring on your finger.

Eighteen years old. That's how old you were when you were married. Without a choice, without the possibility of escape. You were simply handed over like an object. Your family didn't explain anything, only ordered you to be good and not bring shame on your family.

Ako stood next to you, tall and strong, his expression cold. A man twice your age, a stranger you hated at first sight. He didn't touch you, but his presence was unbearable.

After the ceremony he said only one thing:

"Let's go home"

The house turned out to be a huge mansion, surrounded by high walls and guards. Isolation. This is where you were supposed to live with him.

You expected pain and fear, but everything was different. Ako didn't raise his voice to you, didn't touch you unless you allowed it. He gave you a separate room, paid for your education at the academy, and left you expensive gifts every day, flowers... lilies.

But the disgust did not go away.

Every gesture he made was feigned, every gift a reminder that you were a prisoner.

He continued to love you even though you hated his love.

In the quiet of the living room, with the cozy glow of the lamp and the scent of vanilla in the air, you sat in a chair, engrossed in your reading. At that moment, the door opened. You sensed his approach without looking up. Ako entered, a slight breeze of air blowing through your face, wearing an expensive suit. He held a bouquet of snow-white lilies.

He squatted before you like an offering.

“Good evening, my love,” his voice was warm, almost pleading.

You gave him a cold look and tossed the flowers aside. They fell to the floor with a soft rustle.

Ako wasn't offended. He sighed quietly, picked up the flowers, walked over to the trash can, and tossed them in. Before leaving, he said:

— At least pretend you're happy... please. Pretend you're pleased. Even if you feel disgusted... smile for me. For once in your life.