Fortnight.
Virtue was seated by the window, her demeanor reflecting an aura of innocence and modesty. Her room was tastefully decorated with floral wallpaper in shades of pink and sky blue, exuding a delicate charm. The sturdy wooden bed was adorned with a foam mattress, covered in pristine white and pink sheets, complemented by pillowcases in various hues of pink and blue. Virtue, a young woman with a childlike spirit, had not fully embraced the passage of time. Her gaze was drawn to the mirror, revealing a hint of sleep deprivation. Since Nathaniel's proposal, her mind had been diligently occupied with meticulous planning for their forthcoming nuptials. Concerns regarding the wedding's color palette, culinary selections, guest list, and accessory requirements had consumed her thoughts.
Every night before going to bed, she would imagine herself living a different life, one where she was free and content.
In her current situation, she lacks both freedom and happiness, and she yearns to be someone more lively and assertive.
Her father once advised her, "When Nathaniel proposes, accept his proposal."
Her mother would object to her requests to travel overseas, stating, "You cannot go overseas like your brother's wife did."
The only decision she made independently was to attend a public college school on the island, where she was restricted from dating anyone except Nathaniel.
Nathaniel, a young man raised in a world of luxury and privilege, is the son of exceptionally wealthy parents. He carries himself with a refined demeanor, often appearing confident and poised, accustomed to the expectations that accompany his affluent background. Despite his privileged upbringing, Nathaniel possesses a sense of responsibility and depth, seeking meaningful connections beyond material wealth. However, he finds himself in a situation where he may have to settle for a partner he does not find physically attractive, as his sexual satisfaction is paramount.
Virtue appeared cheerful on the outside, but deep down, she was filled with dread for every aspect of her life. Susan parted Virtue's hair in the middle and skillfully braided it into a thick, elegant plait. She secured the braid with a delicate butterfly clip and gently brushed away any loose strands that had fallen onto Virtue's shoulders.
"Perfect," Susan said with a warm smile. "My lady, you look absolutely stunning," she added, as she began to tidy up the hair styling tools she had used.
"Susan," Virtue called out.
"Yes, my lady?" Susan paused in her task and stood up to respond respectfully.
"I have reservations about proceeding with this marriage."
"But my lady, your father..."
"Yes, my father."
Susan tidied the dresser and proceeded to the bathroom sink to wash her hands. Upon her return, Virtue had donned her dress, prepared for their departure.
"Let us leave now, my lady."
They exited together, Virtue leading the way while Susan followed with her hands clasped in front of her.
"Breakfast?" inquired her mother from along the extended corridor. A petite yet elegant woman in her mid-forties, clad in white.
"No, mother! I am pressed for time and must meet with the tailor shortly."
"You say 'shortly.' Breakfast will be served in five minutes for everyone," her mother declared audibly. Her brother emerged from his room and greeted her as she passed by.
"Good morning, dear sister."
"Good morning, brother."
They joined hands and turned left, arriving at a small room that led to the dining area where her father was already seated. A fifty-year-old brown-skinned man with no origin, delicate features just like his daughter.
They both sat down to eat, and their assistants attentively served their dishes onto their plates before presenting them.
Virtue savored a steak accompanied by assorted vegetables and plain bread. She quenched her thirst with water and retrieved her reusable water bottle from the refrigerator after finishing her meal.
"Thank you, father and mother," she expressed before exiting the room.
"Ensure she remains within your sight," Susan was instructed.
"I believe Virtue should be granted some freedom, considering her impending nuptials in a fortnight." Her brother politely interjected.
Virtue, who had stepped outside, called out to Susan, "Hurry up Susan."
"Coming, my lady," Susan bowed respectfully, and promptly joined Virtue.
The chauffeur drove past and transported them through the subterranean passageway to the exclusive fashion establishment where her measurements had been recorded two months prior.
"I shall return to collect you by 6pm," stated Mr. Nile, a Nigerian gentleman who had relocated to the island with her father. They had become acquainted at a ball in England three decades ago and had maintained their friendship ever since.
Virtue meticulously surveyed her surroundings before entering the store. "Welcome, Madam Virtue," greeted the store attendant. The establishment exuded elegance, adorned with refined and luxurious furnishings. Speculation suggested that her father had constructed this establishment for one of his paramours, although her mother advised her to disregard such rumors as mere fabrications intended to undermine their family's reputation.
She took a seat and was presented with a diminutive glass of champagne, refraining from consuming more than this modest serving, mindful of the potential consequences for the entire population of one thousand and fifty individuals residing on the island, she sipped it gradually.
The bride's dress was prepared for its second fitting. Crafted from luxurious fabrics such as silk chiffon and organza, it draped elegantly, allowing for graceful movement. The bodice was elegantly fitted, potentially adorned with delicate lace and subtle beading that would catch the sunlight. The neckline, a romantic sweetheart, enhanced the bride's natural beauty.
The skirt flowed into a full, airy train that trailed lightly behind her, reminiscent of ocean waves. Soft, pastel colors or crisp whites reflected the serene island atmosphere, while floral embroidery and tropical motifs added a touch of local charm.
The dress featured strategically placed cutouts for a hint of allure. Accessories included a flowing veil and a floral crown, blending perfectly with the natural beauty surrounding her. Overall, the dress embodied elegance and grace, designed to harmonize with the enchanting island backdrop.
Her father had thoughtfully chosen this dress for her special day, and even though she had made a slight alteration to the dress, it did not diminish its significance.
It was 4:00 pm, and the sky started to appear gloomy, with a subtle hint of orange forming in the clouds. Virtue and Susan made their way to the library located within their school. Their walk lasted approximately ten minutes, causing a light perspiration to form on Virtue's forehead. Despite her discomfort, she chose to keep her grievances to herself.
"Excuse me, ma'am, there's a matter I would like to discuss with you," Susan politely addressed Virtue, but unfortunately, she did not receive an immediate response.
Undeterred, Susan continued, "I believe Beatrice may be involved with someone other than her husband."
Virtue responded in a haughty manner, "I do not have time for idle gossip, Susan."
Susan persisted, "My lady, I assure you this is a serious matter. I overheard Kiva informing Beatrice that her secret may soon be revealed, as he has already discovered the truth."
Virtue dismissed the matter once again, stating, "Well, if that is the case, it is none of our concern."
Susan respectfully bowed her head and continued walking until they reached the library. As they entered, they unexpectedly encountered Nathaniel. He exclaimed, "My love!" in a rather loud voice, expressing surprise at seeing her.
Virtue, however, did not share his enthusiasm and responded with a simple, "Hey."
Curious about his presence, she inquired, "What are you doing here?"
Nathaniel hesitated and scratched the back of his head before stammering, "Uhm... I... you know... uh..."
...
""Forget about it."
"May I ask the reason for your presence here?" He inquired politely.
"I have come in search of a book."
"How is the preparation progressing?"
"If it is not too much trouble, could you please stop by tomorrow for lunch? There is a matter I would like to discuss with you." Virtue stated seriously before averting her gaze and departing. She does not concern herself with uncertainties or reasons.
Susan looked at him with suspicion and paused before joining Virtue. Virtue overheard her school's occult lecturer explaining how introducing soul traveling into their curriculum could be a grave error.
Most of the students don't find it interesting but the few who do want more. Virtue has never showed interest until last night when she caught Beatrice with Nathaniel under a German mango tree, having a heated moment together. She wished Nathaniel would look at her the way he looked at Beatrice. Beatrice is a beautiful woman with a son for her husband. She was thirty two but has refused to cleave to just her husband. She seduced Virtue's brother and slept with him countless times. When Nathaniel came back to the island two years ago, she fancied him and expanded her promiscuity to him.
She became weary of her brother rather quickly, and it deeply affected him. As a result, he decided that getting married would be the best course of action. Out of all the eligible women on the island, he chose Beatrice's younger sister.
One evening, a ship arrived at the harbor carrying various foreign goods such as silks, dried preserved food, seedlings, cotton, and more. The following day, the ship departed with some island cargo, but her brother's wife was nowhere to be found.
Rumors circulated that she had grown tired of the island and her superficial marriage, prompting her to seize the opportunity and leave with the ship.
They turned a corner and found themselves before an extensive bookshelf dedicated to books on occultism. She meticulously examined the volumes, which were meticulously organized alphabetically and by publication year. Under the year 1903, she spotted the letter "V" and noticed a book titled "A Child Resembles Life."
Discreetly, she removed the book and concealed it within her blouse. Together with Susan, they swiftly made their way to the restroom, where they decided to briefly peruse the book. She flipped through the pages and jotted down certain passages onto her notepad before returning to the bookshelf to discreetly return the book.
Beatrice was employed at the library as well as her father's residence. Today, she was on duty, and when they entered the library reception, Beatrice was not seated, and then Nathaniel was shocked to see her.
Virtue approached the front desk and noticed Beatrice seated there. "Hello, Virtue," Beatrice greeted.
"Hello, I was unaware of your presence here," Beatrice responded politely.
"I arrived a while ago," Virtue explained, turning to look at Susan.
"May I inquire about the book you wish to obtain?" Beatrice inquired.
"I would appreciate your recommendation," Virtue replied.
"An array of books arrived recently, but there's one that particularly stands out. It was sent from Africa, and I believe you might find it intriguing," Beatrice suggested, encouraging Virtue to consider it.
"The initial pages are quite captivating," Beatrice assured. Virtue accepted the book and departed.
They arrived back at the fashion house punctually at 6:00 p.m., where Mr. Nile was already patiently waiting. They joined him, and he drove off. It was truly commendable how she managed to maintain her composure while Beatrice was speaking. She handled her emotions with admirable grace, and for that, she felt a sense of gratitude.