My Parents Forced Me Into a Loveless Marriage, But I Exposed Their Darkest Secret Instead

A Golden Cage

The air in the dining parlor was thick with the scent of lilies and expensive perfume, but to Victoria, it felt suffocating. Under the warm glow of the dangling crystal chandelier, her family’s wealth seemed to glitter with a menacing sheen. She stood rigid, her sleek crimson gown feeling more like a straightjacket than an evening dress. In the gold-bordered mirror across the room, she could see the reflection of her parents closing in on her like predators cornering their prey.

Her mother, Eleanor, adjusted her pearl necklace, her chic updo perfectly in place. She stepped forward and patted Victoria’s shoulder with a rehearsed, hollow tenderness. Beside her, Arthur, her father, gripped Victoria’s arm. His hand was a vise, his tailored midnight-blue suit impeccable, but his eyes behind his glasses were entirely devoid of warmth.

"You planned this behind my back," Victoria whispered, her voice trembling but fierce.

Eleanor’s smile didn't waver, remaining as cold and polished as the marble floors beneath them.

"It's for the family, Victoria," she murmured, her tone dripping with false sweetness.

Arthur’s grip tightened, his voice leaving no room for negotiation.

"You have no choice," he added firmly.

Spurning their touch, Victoria pulled away, her heart hammering against her ribs. She turned her back on them and walked out of the parlor, her heels clicking sharply against the floor. But as she reached the doorway, she glanced back. Eleanor and Arthur had already grasped hands, their faces breaking into synchronized, mocking laughter. Eleanor leaned in, whispering, "She'll fall in line," to which Arthur confidently replied, "She always does." Victoria felt a cold resolve harden within her chest. They thought they owned her, but they were about to learn how wrong they were.