Sweet Submission

It was finally over! She had accumulated wealth, but her heart remained unfulfilled. In a society steeped in traditions, her upbringing had inadvertently set her on a path towards a tragic fate. Despite being taught to captivate men with her smile, she held an innocent purity within. Tragically, she was destined for a fate worse than she could have imagined – sold to the highest bidder by her own family, calling it an "initiation" before becoming a woman. What awaited her? Would she find love in the mysterious prince who had claimed her? And if she allowed herself to explore the darkness within, how would it all unfold? ... As I awoke, warm breath caressed my nose, carrying the familiar scent of vanilla potpourri. My eyes fluttered open, and I found myself face-to-face with a man whose gaze was like a stormy sky, gray and intense. "Good morning," he whispered softly, his nearness causing my heart to race. The victor of the auction, he confirmed my initial impression. Retreating to his seat across from mine, he continued, "I am Yulian." He chuckled, adding, "No need for formalities, but since this is our beginning, I'll call you Mi Eliza, my wife for the next year." His thick accent hinted at Russian origins. "But—," I stammered, struggling to comprehend the sudden turn of events.