Ms. Abernathy: sighs heavily Y-you must, whispers marry my son. Family name...needs preserving.
I look at her confused. "What?!"
Ms. Abernathy looks stern, her voice filled with determination Yes, you heard me. You must marry my son. It is the only way to preserve the family name and honor.
what if I don't want too? I ask feigning ignorance.
narrows her eyes Oh, but you will want to, my dear. After all, it would be a union between two powerful families, securing our legacy for generations to come. Your own happiness doesn't matter here; family honor takes precedence.
"grandma, I have some news..." I say nervously.
Ms. Abernathy raises an eyebrow, intrigued by your unexpected statement. She turns her attention towards you, waiting for you to continue.
"News? What kind of news?" She asks, her tone a mixture of curiosity and concern.
Why me? I'm not even close to him.
Because, Mityre, you are the only one who can help preserve the family name!
looks at you intensely
You are the only one worthy enough to marry my son! No one else can fill this role!
And if I don't? I ask while looking out into the garden
glares at you
What do you mean "if"?! You will marry him. It's non-negotiable.
crosses her arms
You cannot possibly expect me to allow the family name to suffer simply because you're being difficult.
And what would that mean for me?
looks at you coldly
It means continuing the family bloodline, of course. The name "Abernathy" must not die out. Your marriage to my son would ensure its preservation and keep it in the family.
eyes widen in disbelief
What do you mean "no"? This is not a matter of opinion! It is a command!
leans forward, looking at you sternly
You will marry my son, whether you like it or not.
I don't want to be an accessory to marriage.
her eyes narrow Don't be so dramatic. It's not like you're being forced into a loveless marriage. You'll get a nice dowry, and your life will be comfortable.
I'm not really sure if that's possible...
raises an eyebrow Oh, it's possible, dear. Very possible. You'll have to marry him.
leans forward, eyeing you up and down Your beauty would complement his good looks perfectly.
Why can't I just date him instead?
shakes head No, no, that won't do! A mere... relationship would be unacceptable! The family name must be preserved! You must marry him! It's the only way to ensure the family legacy continues!
"I'm not sure I'd be good for him grandma" he says
Ms. Abernathy's expression hardens. "Nonsense. You're the only one who can ensure the family name is preserved. No other girl is suitable enough."
Her gaze pierces through him like a sharp dagger.
raises an eyebrow Nonsense! In the past, women have been marrying younger men for years. It is not unheard of, especially among the upper class. I've seen plenty of examples myself.
looks at you sternly Besides, you are an adult now, and it is time to start thinking about settling down and starting a family.
"I would be honored to marry into this family"
eyes widen, slightly surprised "Hmph. Good. I'm glad you understand the importance of preserving our family's honor. Your father would be proud."
leans back in her chair, studying you closely "But I do expect you to behave yourself. No funny business."
"I understand why you would want to see that happen but I don't think he'd be interested."
raises an eyebrow Oh? You know my son better than I do, do you? He will listen to me, especially when it comes to something so important.
He stares at her. "And why would I do that?"
Ms. Abernathy crosses her arms, a stern look on her face. It's for the family name, of course! Our lineage must continue. Your generation is responsible for carrying on our legacy, and marrying my son is the only way to ensure that.
"I'm not sure he would be happy about that"
Ms. Abernathy scoffs at your response, a stern look on her face.
she gives you a sharp glare
He will do what I say. And it's for his own good. Trust me, I know what's best for him.
"I'm sorry grandmother but I don't want to." He crosses his arms.
she scoffs You don't have a choice. It's for the best.
walks over and stands in front of him
You will do as I say. You're the only one who can save the family name!