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Ariana woke up to the soft glow of morning sunlight streaming through the sheer curtains of her lavish bedroom. Today was her 18th birthday, a milestone she had been eagerly anticipating for months. She stretched luxuriously in her silk sheets, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves fluttering in her stomach. The mansion was already buzzing with activity, as the staff prepared for the grand celebration planned for the evening.
She slipped out of bed and padded across the plush carpet to her walk-in closet. Rows of designer dresses, shoes, and accessories greeted her, but today she had something special to wear. Her mother had commissioned a custom-made gown, one that was supposed to make her look and feel like a princess. Ariana couldn't wait to see it.
As she made her way downstairs, the aroma of freshly baked pastries and brewed coffee filled the air. The dining room was a flurry of activity, with her family and the household staff bustling about, making sure everything was perfect for the big day. Her parents, ever the picture of elegance, were already seated at the table, discussing last-minute details with the event planner.
"Good morning, darling," her mother greeted her with a warm smile. "Happy birthday! How does it feel to finally be an adult?"
Ariana smiled back, trying to push aside the lingering sense of apprehension. "It feels amazing, Mom. I can't wait for tonight."
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After having breakfast, Ariana decided to take a walk through the gardens of the mansion. The fresh morning air and the singing of the birds helped calm her nerves. As she walked among the flowers, she remembered all the special moments she had experienced in that place: her childhood games, family parties, and sunny afternoons reading under the old oak tree.
Suddenly, her best friend, Sofia, came running towards her with a radiant smile. "Ariana! Happy birthday!" she shouted as she hugged her tightly. Sofia was like a sister to Ariana, and she couldn't imagine celebrating this day without her.
"Thank you, Sofia," Ariana responded, returning the hug. "I can't believe I'm already 18. It feels like just yesterday we were in elementary school, dreaming about this day."
"I know," Sofia said, laughing. "And now, here we are, ready for an unforgettable night. Are you nervous?"
"A little," Ariana admitted. "I want everything to go perfectly. My parents have put so much effort into this party."
"Everything will be perfect," Sofia assured her. "And besides, today is your day. Enjoy it to the fullest."
Ariana nodded, feeling a bit more at ease. They spent the rest of the morning together, reminiscing about old times and talking about their plans for the future. Ariana couldn't wait to see how the day and the night ahead would unfold. She knew this birthday would mark the beginning of a new stage in her life, filled with opportunities and adventures.Â
Here's the continuation of the story:
As Ariana and Sofia chatted, they strolled back towards the mansion. The sound of laughter and music drifted from the dining room, where the party preparations were in full swing.
"Ariana, darling, come join us for a moment," her mother called out, her voice laced with excitement.
Ariana exchanged a curious glance with Sofia before entering the dining room. Her parents stood by the window, beaming with pride.
"Close your eyes, Ariana," her father instructed, his eyes twinkling.
Ariana's heart skipped a beat as she obeyed. The room fell silent.
"Open them," her mother whispered.
Before her stood a stunning, velvet-draped pedestal. On it rested a magnificent diamond necklace, glinting in the sunlight.
"Happy birthday, Ariana," her parents chimed in unison.
But as she reached for the necklace, her eyes landed on a small, elegantly crafted box beside it.
"What's this?" Ariana asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Her mother's smile faltered for an instant before recovering.
"That, darling, is a token of your union," her father announced, his voice filled with gravitas.
Ariana's confusion deepened.
"Union?" she repeated.
Her mother stepped forward, the box now open, revealing a breathtaking diamond ring.
"You're betrothed, Ariana," her father declared. "To Prince Alexander of Windsor."
The room spun around Ariana. Betrothed? Prince Alexander? She had never even met him!
Sofia's gasp echoed through the room.
"Ariana, say something," her mother urged, concern etched on her face.
Ariana's shock gave way to panic.
"But...but I don't know him," she stammered.
Her father's expression turned stern.
"This arrangement has been made for the betterment of our family and business. You'll understand in time."
Ariana felt suffocated, trapped in a life predetermined by her parents.
"I...I need time to think," she stammered, backing away.
Her parents exchanged worried glances.
"We'll discuss this later," her father said firmly.
Ariana fled the room, the weight of her betrothal crushing her.
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Ariana's mind reeled as she fled to her room, the diamond ring and betrothal announcement burning in her memory. She couldn't shake the feeling of being trapped.
Her family's business, Harrison Industries, was a global conglomerate with interests in finance, real estate, and technology. Her parents had built their empire through strategic partnerships and shrewd investments.
But at what cost?
Ariana's thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock on the door. Sofia entered, concern etched on her face.
"Hey, are you okay?" Sofia asked, settling beside Ariana on the bed.
Ariana shook her head. "I feel like my life is being controlled. I don't even know Prince Alexander."
Sofia's expression turned thoughtful. "Maybe he's not as bad as you think. Maybe you'll fall in love."
Ariana snorted. "You know my parents. They only care about the business."
As they talked, Ariana realized she needed to learn more about Prince Alexander and the reasons behind the arranged marriage.
That evening, at the birthday party, Ariana's parents introduced her to Prince Alexander. Tall, handsome, and charming, he smiled warmly, but Ariana detected a hint of reserve in his eyes.
As they danced, Ariana probed him about his interests and values. Prince Alexander spoke passionately about philanthropy and sustainable development, but Ariana sensed a guardedness, as if he was hiding something.
Despite her reservations, Ariana found herself drawn to his kindness and intelligence.
As the night wore on, Ariana's parents announced the engagement, and the room erupted in applause.
Ariana's heart sank, but Prince Alexander's gentle squeeze on her hand surprised her.
"I know this isn't ideal," he whispered, "but I promise to make this work. For both of us."
Ariana searched his eyes, seeking answers
.
Was this a genuine promise, or just a polite gesture?
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