The Cursed Extra: Bloodline of Sacrifice

Chapter 5 A Fragile Bond : Engagement

Her fiance mother, Lady Rosalind, glanced at him briefly before turning her attention to Lady Eleana, who sat elegantly, her hands folded in her lap.

Lady Eleana's eyes narrowed, sensing the weight behind Rosalind's words even before they were spoken.

"You seem hesitant today, Lady Rosalind. Is something amiss?" She asked.

Rosalind offered a polite but strained smile.

"No, not hesitant, Lady Eleana. Merely... thoughtful. There are matters I believe should be addressed before we continue with our families' arrangement." Rosalind said.

Caspian felt his chest tighten, his hands clenching at his sides.

She's going to say it.

Fianna's gaze flickered to Caspian, her blue eyes widening slightly as if urging him to stay calm.

Lady Eleana tilted her head, a sharp edge to her voice. "Speak plainly, Lady Rosalind. What exactly are you suggesting?"

Rosalind hesitated for a moment before straightening her back.

"While the engagement between our children was arranged years ago, I can't help but feel concerned. Caspian's... current state raises certain questions about his suitability as a match for my daughter." Rosalind said.

The room fell silent. Fianna's face paled as she opened her mouth to protest, but before she could speak, Eleana's icy tone cut through.

"Are you questioning the worth of my son?" Eleana's voice was calm, but the tension in it was unmistakable.

Rosalind remained composed.

"It's not my intention to offend, but we must consider the realities of the situation. Caspian is frail, weak, and... unsuited to the responsibilities of leading a family. My daughter deserves someone who can stand as her equal, who can support her." She said.

Eleana's eyes hardened, her lips curling into a cold smile.

"I see. You think the Arkwrights have fallen so low that you can insult us to our faces." She said.

"Lady Eleana," Rosalind said softly but firmly, "this is not about your family's name. This is about ensuring my daughter's future."

"I..." He stammered, his voice barely a whisper.

His body felt heavy, as if the room itself was crushing him.

"I will... try my best." He said.

Rosalind sighed, shaking her head.

"Lady Eleana, this is exactly what I mean. He cannot even defend himself. How can he be expected to—" Rosalind said.

"Enough!" Eleana barked, her icy composure cracking.

"This engagement will not be broken. Do you understand me, Rosalind? You may take your leave if you wish, but know this—if you end this agreement, the Redmond will face consequences far beyond a mere broken promise." She said.

Rosalind stiffened, her lips pressing into a thin line.

She glanced at Fianna, whose eyes glistened with unshed tears.

For a moment, silence hung heavy in the air.

"Very well," Rosalind said finally, her voice subdued.

"If that is your decision, Lady Eleana, I will respect it—for now." She said.

Fianna looked at her mother, relief and confusion mingling on her face.

Caspian remained rooted to the spot, his heart pounding in his chest.

As Rosalind stood to leave, she paused, casting a glance at Caspian.

"For your sake, young man, I hope you prove me wrong."

Her words lingered in the air as she turned and walked away, leaving Caspian feeling more fragile and broken than ever.

Even though the engagement remained intact, he couldn't shake the feeling that one of his two fragile hopes had been shattered.