Thirty Nine

Charles chuckled softly. "I knew you've been wanting to ask that for a long time. It's something our families have wanted for generations. The Prescotts and the Barretts have been friends since I can remember. I can't remember a time when there ever was a Barrett without a Prescott."

Charles continued. "But neither of us had daughters for the longest time, but when your father told me that his wife was having a girl, we saw it as an opportunity to unite our families. Your father wanted to ensure your safety and happiness, Raven. He wanted to secure your future. And he trusted me to keep you safe."

"I think you mean Blair’s happiness and future," Raven said, smiling sadly.

"There were complications that even I don't understand," Charles replied. "But that’s a story for another time." Raven listened quietly, trying to process his words.

"What if I don't want this alliance, and I just want to be free?" Raven said, her heart ached in her chest.

Charles furrowed his brow. "Free? What