"Madam Barton," the young master has instructed me to ensure you accept this bridal gown. It is a mission I must fulfill."
He gestured, permitting the servant to lay the wedding dress upon the villa's settee before addressing Alla, "I trust you will honour us, Madam Barton, by donning this gown on your wedding day."
Alla felt a lump in her throat, and her face fell. "Martin, take it back. My husband has already presented me with a new wedding dress. I will not be seen in a gown he has provided at my own wedding."
Her words were final and unambiguous. Martin was taken aback, then filled with indignation. "Madam Barton, for the past three years, the young master has sustained himself with medication just to glimpse you in his fantasies. Is it not exceedingly unfair to treat him in this manner?"
A sudden pang hit Alla's heart, and the darkness on her face turned paler.
Why, why tell her all this now?
