As Elaine and Leo continued to enjoy their time together at the Arcanum academy, the carefree days were abruptly overshadowed by unexpected news from Elaine's family, adding a layer of complexity and urgency to her feelings for Leo.
One crisp morning, as Elaine was preparing for her day, her parents unexpectedly arrived at the Collegium. Seeing them usually brought Elaine joy, but the seriousness of their expressions immediately filled her with unease.
"Elaine, we need to talk," her father said, his tone more formal than usual. They found a quiet spot in one of the Collegium's small courtyards, away from the curious eyes of other students.
"We've come to tell you that we've arranged a marriage for you," her mother explained gently, watching Elaine closely. "The contract has been discussed with the family of a young nobleman, a good match that will benefit everyone."
Elaine felt her heart sink. The news was a shock, not just because of the arranged marriage but because it conflicted with the growing feelings she harbored for Leo. "But... I don't want this. I haven't even met him," she protested, her voice trembling slightly.
"We know this is sudden, but it's for the best. He's from a respected family, and this will secure your future," her father added, trying to sound reassuring.
As Elaine struggled to process the news, Leo, who had planned to meet her for their morning study session, approached. Seeing her distress and her parents with her, he sensed something was wrong.
"Is everything okay?" Leo asked, concern evident in his voice as he joined them.
Elaine, blushing and upset, quickly filled him in on the situation. Leo's expression turned from concern to one of firm disagreement.
"I'm sorry, but I can't support this," Leo interjected, his respect for Elaine's parents battling with his protective feelings for Elaine. "Elaine should have the right to choose her own path, especially in matters of marriage."
Elaine's parents were taken aback by Leo's directness. "We appreciate your concern, young man, but this is a family matter," her father replied, his tone polite but cold.
Elaine, empowered by Leo's support and her own desires, found her resolve. "Leo's right. I'm grateful for your care, but I must make my own choices. I'm not ready to commit to someone I don't love."
Her parents exchanged a look, the situation clearly not going as they had planned. After a moment of tense silence, her mother spoke, "We will discuss this further, back home. Please, think about what we've said."
After her parents left, Elaine was visibly shaken. Leo stayed with her, offering a comforting presence. "Thank you, Leo. For standing up for me," Elaine said, her eyes meeting his.
"I believe in you, Elaine. In your right to choose your future," Leo replied earnestly. "No matter what happens, I'll support you."
As they walked back to the main buildings of the academy, Elaine leaned slightly towards Leo, grateful for his presence. The weight of her family's expectations and her feelings for Leo tangled within her, making the future seem both daunting and vital.
That evening, Elaine considered her situation deeply. Leo's support had not only strengthened her resolve but also deepened her feelings for him. She knew the path ahead would be difficult, but having Leo by her side made her believe that it was possible to forge her own destiny.
Meanwhile, Leo lay awake, pondering the day's events. His intervention might have overstepped boundaries, but seeing Elaine so distressed had compelled him to act. He cared for her deeply, more than he had admitted even to himself, and he knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, he was ready to face them with her