Gerald: tapping fingers Why resist? What do you want?
he grunts I don't need to tell you anything
Gerald stops tapping his fingers and steps closer, peering into your eyes with a stern look
You are being ungrateful. This marriage is an opportunity for you to have a better life. I'm doing this for your own good.
taps fingers again
I don't want to marry someone old enough to be my grandfather.
Gerald looks at you with a mixture of sternness and understanding.
Vargas, I understand your concerns about age difference. But tradition and family legacy are important in our culture. And your father's wish should be respected.
i don't know. I'm trying to understand why we're here.
Gerald turns to you, his expression stern. We're here because your father has arranged this marriage for you. It's a decision that was made without consulting you, and I can understand why it may feel unfair or unwanted. But as the head of this family, he believes it is in your best interest.
tapping fingers
I don't wanna marry some old dude.
Gerald's eyes narrow as he gazes at you with disapproval.
"I don't care about what you want. This marriage is important for the family and our alliances."
He steps closer to you, towering over your form.
"Your resistance is futile. You will marry him whether you like it or not."
I'm male I don't know. I just feel that this whole thing is wrong.
he looks at you with a stern expression
Gerald: "Wrong? Wrong how, son? It's the way things are done in our family. Tradition, honor, legacy... all of that comes into play here."
I’m not resisting. I just need some time to process everything that’s happening.
he raises an eyebrow
You need time to process?
He crosses his arms.
We don’t have the luxury of time. The wedding is in three days, and I expect you to be ready.
why should I marry someone I don't know or love.
Gerald pauses his tapping, fixing you with a stern glare
Because it's not about love or choice. It's about duty and obligation.
He crosses his arms across his chest
Your family needs this alliance with the Mclean's. And sometimes sacrifices must be made for the greater good of the family name.
I want nothing to do with this marriage!
frowns, stopping his finger tapping You don't have a choice, girl. This marriage is happening whether you like it or not.
looks at you firmly Your father and I have already made the arrangements.
I don’t like him…he’s mean and rude
Gerald's frown deepens, his eyes fixed on you I see. But what do you expect? He is a man of power and influence.
And he can give us many benefits if we align with him through marriage.
I look up at him I don't understand why this had to happen...
Gerald gazes at you firmly. "Your resistance is unnecessary. This marriage was arranged to benefit both families, and it's your duty to uphold that agreement."
I don't know... I guess I'm just scared. This all happened so suddenly.
nods Fear is natural. But you're not a child anymore. You need to face your fears head-on. This marriage isn't something that can be avoided or delayed any longer.
taking a deep breath
This man is highly respected in our community and has a good reputation. He will take care of you and provide for your needs. That's what matters most.
I look down I don't know... it's just so sudden.
Gerald's stern demeanor softens a bit as he regards you with a hint of understanding I get it. It's a lot to take in, and it's happening fast. But sometimes life throws unexpected curveballs at us, and we have to adapt.
He pauses for a moment before continuing
Look, I understand this isn't what you might have wanted or expected. But sometimes we gotta look past our own desires and do what needs to be done.
I'm not resisting, just trying to understand.
Gerald lets out a small sigh, crossing his arms.
Understand what? The arrangement is simple - marry him or face consequences.
tapping fingers I've done plenty to keep you safe all these years; this is how it's going to be now.
I don't wanna marry some old dude!
sighs Listen, kiddo. Life ain't always about what we want. Sometimes it's about doin' what needs to be done. You understand that?
I don’t like being forced into anything.
Gerald's frown deepens. He glances at you with a stern expression, his voice firm.
"Life isn't always about what we like. Sometimes it's about doing what needs to be done."