Gently stroking my hair, I gazed out the window enjoying the view. It's been ages since I had come home. A smile gently appeared on my face. 

As quickly as it appeared, it faded. 

The real reason for my visit wasn't willful. 

They forced me.  

Specifically, they kidnapped me. 

I turned around, looking at the mob of bodyguards surrounding me. 

"There was no need for this," I said, slightly pouting while looking at the butler, an elderly figure dressed in a grey suit. 

"Well, lady, Anastasia, this was the least we could do," replied the butler. "We can't afford for you to run away again." 

Hearing his words, I lowered my head, staring at the ground. 

"Don't worry, Lady Anastasia. The marriage, in a few days," added the butler. 

I abruptly looked up, the reason for my visit becoming clear. 

I looked at the butler, shocked. 

"Lady, Anastasia. This way, please," said the butler, diverting my attention. 

"I'm coming," I replied, making my way toward them. I exited the airport, greeted by a mod of expensive black cars parked in a line. 

"I never knew the Vicent family was this wealthy, "I whispered happily, entering the car. 

I was getting married to my childhood best friend. At least that was what I thought.

I had mixed feelings about the marriage and why I tried to run away. 

After figuring out that it was Vicent, I agreed. We used to be childhood sweethearts. All the moments we'd spend running around lit up my face. 

I looked out the car's window, eyeing the mountains and plains. Gently memories of my childhood clouded me, yet another smile formed on my lips. 

Memories of my childhood replayed with every minute that passed, and before I knew it, we had already arrived. 

"Lady Anastasia, we have arrived," gently said the butler, a warm smile on his face.

 "Ah, yes. I'm coming," I replied, nervously exiting the car. 

I turned around, stunned by the mansion towering above me. 

It looked like the house only shown in movies.

"This way, Lady Anastasia," continued the butler, amused by my utter shock.

A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

I entered the mansion, greeted by the sight of the golden chandelier, marbled walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows. 

"Is this ... Where I'm going to stay," I asked the butler, an indescribable expression on my face. 

"Yes, lady Anastasia. I'll get a maid to send you to your room," replied the butler. "I'll get going. If anything is needed, feel free to imply your request to one of the servants," continued the butler before courting and leaving. 

"Yes, have a good day," I said as I watched the butler's figure disappear. 

I ecstatically turned around, my sight going once again to the features of the place. 

"Welcome home, lady Anastasia," suddenly said a group of unfamiliar voices. 

I abruptly shifted my body in the direction of the sound, and my jaw dropped. 

A score of maids all lines up in front of me. 

What was happening?

"Hello," I replied awkwardly as a moment of silence took place.

"Welcome, Lady Anastasia," added another person. I turned around to face the lullabying song. 

"Hello," I once again replied awkwardly.  

A middle-aged woman with a warm expression appeared in front of me. 

"My name is Natalia," continued the head maid. 

I quietly eyed the lady, an agreeing smile spreading across my face. 

"It's not every day that we see such a beauty in the mansion. You are the first girl our king has brought home," added Natalia.

"Really," I replied happily, clouded by the thought of love. 

Her last words brought a smile to my face. 

Did he like me? 

"Well enough with the chit-chat. I'll get someone to show you your bedroom," said Natalia, clapping her hands as the score of maids dispersed. 

A young black-haired girl suddenly appeared.

"I'll show you to your room, madam," nervously said the girl, heading upstairs. 

Making our way upstairs, I quietly enjoyed the scenery of the house. 

Paintings and stunning jewelry filled the halls. 

As things started getting interesting, we came to a sudden halt. 

"Here is your room, madam," quickly replied the maid as she left. 

I watched her movements, which seemed to be impulsive, even fearful. 

I shrugged off the feeling and entered the room. I looked around, still shocked by the luxury of the house. 

I headed towards the window, taking a look outside. The green plains gave a refreshing yet secluded feel. 

I turned around, practically jumping on the bed. It was the first time I had the luxury of privacy. 

I stared at the ceiling, the imagination of my wedding day flashing in my mind. 

And before I knew it, my eyes slowly closed as I fell asleep.

***

Click Click Click 

The loud sound of footsteps filled the halls. 

I shifted in my bed, disturbed by the hasty sound. I once again turned when my eyes shot open. 

The footsteps were getting louder as if they were coming towards my door. 

I sat up, covering myself with a blanket. My heart was racing. 

The footsteps impulsively stopped. 

My body froze, and the place became silent. 

The only thing I could hear was my heartbeat. My eyes widened as the door slowly opened. 

A slight glow of light shone on the figure. 

"Who are you," I whispered, the words barely escaping my mouth.