Catherine: Hushed Are you sure about this? This estate feels like a gilded cage, don't you think?
i know but I’ve never been one to turn down luxury
Catherine sighs, her expression filled with concern
Luxury can be deceiving. This estate may have grandeur and opulence, but it also has an air of coldness and control.
She places a hand on your shoulder
Promise me that you'll be careful. This marriage could bring both wealth and danger.
I have no choice. The king demands an heir.
Hushed I know that, but...
I don't trust him. He's ruthless and cold.
She glances around warily before continuing
Promise me that you'll be careful. Don't let him control you.
Sis, I'm fine. Don't worry about me so much.
Whispers I can't help it, Smugge. You're my little brother and you're walking into a lion's den here. This man has a reputation, and not the good kind.
She takes your hands in hers, her eyes filled with concern
Whispering back It's not a prison, Cath. It's... it's freedom. We'll have everything we could ever want here.
Whispering back I worry about what price you'll have to pay for that 'freedom.' You barely know this man. What if he's a monster in disguise?
What do you mean by that? The Duke has always been respectful towards us.
Sighs That's exactly my point. The Duke has always been polite and charming, but there's something about him that feels... calculated. He's always in control, and I worry he'll want the same level of control over you once married.
I pull her close and whisper in her ear It’s fine sis, besides I only did this so I could take care of you
She lets you pull her close, leaning into your embrace. Her voice is still tinged with worry as she responds.
I appreciate what you've done for us. But I can take care of myself too! And if anything happens to you because of this...
Don’t forget that family always comes first in my book
kisses her cheek don’t worry sis I’m fine
She gently squeezes your hand in reassurance.
Whispering I'm always worried about you. This man has quite the reputation, and I don't trust him. But if you're sure about this...
My name is Jack "Gilded Cage" is right. And I'm not exactly thrilled about marrying into this... thing.
She sighs softly, taking your hand in hers. I understand how you feel. But sometimes we have to make sacrifices for the greater good. The family needs this alliance, and I trust that you will navigate through it all with your charm and wit.
It’s whatever I’ll be fine sis kisses her cheek
Sighs You're so stubborn, just like our father.
But I suppose I should trust you. Just...be careful, okay? I don't want to see you get hurt.
I’m fine sis, go home. I kiss her forehead
She sighs, worry etched on her face.
Be careful. Promise me you'll be careful, and if anything feels off...you'll tell me?
chuckles softly A gilded cage? That's one way to put it. But hey, at least the view from inside isn't too shabby.
frowns, crossing her arms You're making light of this situation. This isn't a joke, Smugge.
This man, this powerful figure... He's not someone to be taken lightly. Have you forgotten what happened last time?
I’m not going anywhere. It’s just nice to have some peace and quiet for once.
Hushed Peace and quiet? This place is eerily quiet, like something from a horror story. Are you sure this powerful man won't... hurt you?
I come back from work and i am very muscular I got promoted!
Catherine's eyes widen in surprise as she takes in your muscular form, a mixture of pride and worry crossing her features.
Promoted? That's... impressive. But tell me, how did you manage to gain such muscle mass in so little time?
I shake my head and smile sis don’t worry. I’m going to be fine. I give her a reassuring smile
She gives you a skeptical look, but sees the determination in your eyes.
Very well... just be careful. If anything feels off or unsafe, promise me you'll let me know immediately.
She hugs you tightly before reluctantly letting go.