"Kay," Mona called.

"What's up, Mon?" asked the girl named Kayla.

"I've already registered for my clinical rotation in Country B. What about you?" Mona asked.

"I want to find something close by, but I think my dad wants me to do mine in Country A," Kayla said.

"So you'd be going back home, then," Mona said.

"I haven't been back in three years. That's probably why he wants me to do it there," Kayla said.

"That's fine, just do your rotation there. Besides, your dad will definitely find you a good hospital," Mona said.

"Ugh, but I don't want to go there. I like it better here," Kayla said.

"So what are you going to do?" Mona asked.

"That's the thing — I have no idea," Kayla answered.

"You need to decide soon. There's a registration deadline this year, and if you miss it, you'll have to wait for the next cycle. Plus you might get penalized," Mona said.

"That's why I'm so torn. What do you think — should I just go along with what my dad wants, or...?" Kayla asked.

"If you want my opinion, I'd say follow your dad's wishes," Mona suggested.

"I guess so. But that means we won't get to see each other," Kayla said.

"I'll definitely miss you. I'm leaving for Country B next week," Mona said.

"Wait, that soon?" Kayla asked.

"Yeah, I actually registered a while ago. But I only ran into you today, so I'm just telling you now," Mona said.

"Good luck out there. I hope your rotation goes smoothly and you get your license soon," Kayla said.

"Thanks, same to you. But seriously, you need to make a decision," Mona said.

"I know. I think I'll probably decide tomorrow, Mon. I just need more time to think. This is a really big deal for my future," Kayla said with a sigh.

Mona patted her shoulder gently. "Don't overthink it, Kay. Whatever you decide, I've got your back. Besides, Country A and Country B aren't that far apart. We can still video call," Mona reassured her with a smile.

Kayla gave a faint smile. "Thanks, Mon. You're the best."

"Alright, I've got to head out, Kay. I need to pack and get ready to go," Mona said, standing up.

"Be careful, Mon. Let me know when you get there," Kayla said.

"I will! See you again, Kay!" Mona called, waving as she walked away from the university cafeteria.

Kayla watched Mona until she disappeared around the corner, then sank back into her own thoughts — her father's words and her own feelings pulling in opposite directions. Country A was where she'd been born, where her family still lived. Doing her rotation there meant she could be with the people she'd only seen through a phone screen for three years. But she felt more comfortable and settled here in Country C. The hospitals here were also known for having excellent clinical programs.

That evening, while Kayla was in her apartment, the doorbell suddenly rang. She hurried to open it, and her jaw dropped when she saw her family standing there.

"Dad? What are you doing here?" Kayla asked, pulling her father into a hug.

"Your mom and I missed you," Demian said.

"But you were just here last month," Kayla said.

"What can I say — we miss our girl," he replied.

"How long are you staying?" Kayla asked.

"Maybe a week," Demian said, and Kayla nodded.

The usually quiet apartment filled with laughter and conversation as Demian and Anya settled in. Kayla's life had always been like this — a loving family, everything she needed provided for, never a real hardship to speak of. She was deeply grateful for all of it.

"Kayla," her father said.

"Yeah, Dad?"

"There's something I wanted to talk to you about," Demian said.

"What is it?"

"You know Uncle Bastian, right?" Demian asked.

"Yeah," Kayla answered.

"I'd like to introduce you to his son. His name is Arthur," Demian said.

"Uncle Bastian's son? I thought he only has Joana," Kayla said.

"He has another child — a boy. Joana's older brother. His name is Arthur," Demian said.

"We're just meeting him, right?" Kayla asked.

"Right, just a casual introduction," Demian assured her.

"Okay, I'm fine with that," Kayla said.

"Tomorrow we'll have dinner with them. It'll be a chance for you to get to know Arthur," Demian said.

"Wait — tomorrow? Isn't that kind of fast, Dad?"

"Not at all, sweetheart. The sooner the better," Demian said.

"I thought it would be after I started my rotation," Kayla said.

"It's fine. It's just an introduction," Demian said, and Kayla nodded.

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The next day, Kayla was dressed and ready in a stylish two-piece outfit — a cropped collared blouse with short sleeves, oversized front buttons, and textured detailing on the shoulders, paired with a high-waisted A-line mini skirt that flared gently downward in a classic, feminine silhouette.

"Look at my beautiful girl," Anya said.

"Mom, are you just now realizing you have a daughter this gorgeous?" Kayla teased.

"Oh, you," her mother laughed. "Let's go. Your father's waiting in the car."

Kayla followed Anya out of the apartment to the car, where Demian was already behind the wheel.

"Ready?" he asked with a smile.

"Ready, Dad," Kayla answered, though a flutter of nerves crept into her voice.

She knew this was just an introduction, but for some reason it felt more like a high-stakes job interview.

The drive to the restaurant was short, filled with easy conversation between her parents. Kayla stayed mostly quiet, occasionally glancing out the window, her mind still drifting between choosing where to do her rotation and the meeting that lay ahead.

They arrived at an upscale restaurant that practically radiated class. Demian led the way, with Anya and Kayla following close behind. A server greeted them and escorted the family to a private dining room.

Inside, a well-dressed couple in their fifties rose to their feet the moment Kayla's family appeared.

"Demian! Anya! So glad you could make it," Uncle Bastian greeted them warmly, pulling Demian into a hug.

"We're happy to be here, Bas. It's been far too long since we've had dinner together," Demian replied.

Bastian shook Anya's hand, then his gaze landed on Kayla. "Well, this must be Kayla. Look at you — all grown up and gorgeous. Last time I saw you, you were still in middle school," he said.

"Good evening, Uncle Bastian, Aunt Emma," Kayla greeted them politely, shaking both their hands.

After the initial pleasantries, everyone sat down. Bastian and Emma were warm and personable, which kept the atmosphere from feeling too stiff.

"Arthur will be here any minute. He had something come up that he couldn't step away from," Emma explained.

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To be continued...

"That's quite alright, Emma. We can order drinks first," Anya said.

They began chatting casually — business, vacation plans, this and that. Kayla listened quietly, chiming in with a comment only when someone directed a question her way. Just as the server arrived with their drinks, the door to the private room swung open and a tall man with a commanding build stepped inside.

Kayla turned instinctively toward the door. The man had a chiseled face, a strong jawline, and eyes so sharp they could cut glass. He wore a navy blue dress shirt with the sleeves rolled to the elbows, revealing muscular forearms.

"Sorry I'm late, Dad, Mom," the man said in a deep baritone.

"No worries, Arthur. Come, sit down and say hello," Bastian said, gesturing toward the table.

The man — Arthur — walked over. His gaze happened to meet Kayla's for a brief moment, and an inexplicable wave of nervousness and fear washed over her.

"Everyone, this is Arthur. And Arthur — this is Uncle Demian, Aunt Anya, and this is Kayla," Bastian said by way of introduction.

Arthur shook hands with Demian and Anya respectfully, then turned to Kayla. The handshake was brief, but it was enough to terrify her half to death.

They enjoyed the food the restaurant had prepared, followed by lively conversation between the two families — until Bastian's voice brought everything to a halt.

"So, what do we think about the wedding between Kayla and Arthur?" Bastian asked.

"Let's do it as soon as possible. They've already been introduced, after all," Demian replied.

Kayla froze. As far as she knew, this meeting was supposed to be a simple introduction to Arthur — not a discussion about a wedding.

"Wait — what do you mean, Uncle?" Kayla asked.

"Oh? Your father didn't tell you? This whole dinner is about arranging your marriage to Arthur. You two are going to be married," Bastian said.

"I did tell her. But it seems Kayla forgot," Demian answered smoothly.

Kayla stared at her father in bewilderment. Demian met her gaze and responded with a nod and an encouraging smile.

"So, what do you say? I can barely contain my excitement about having a daughter-in-law as lovely as you, Kayla," Emma said warmly.

"What about you, Arthur?" Bastian asked his son.

"I've already agreed to the arrangement. So it's up to Kayla — whether she's willing or not," Arthur replied, his expression perfectly flat.

"How about it, Kayla?" Bastian asked.

The question hit Kayla like a freight train. She wasn't ready for marriage. She still had a future to chase.

Sensing Kayla's hesitation, Bastian smiled with understanding. "I know this must be overwhelming. You're still pursuing your education, and that's important. But you don't need to worry — Arthur will fully support you. You can keep following your dreams even after you're married. Isn't that right, Arthur?"

"Yes," Arthur said.

"So, sweetheart — what do you think?" Emma asked gently.

What am I supposed to do? Accept or refuse? But I'm not ready for this, Kayla thought desperately.

She drew in a deep breath and let her gaze sweep over Bastian and Emma, both watching her with such hopeful eyes.

"Kayla?" Anya said softly, as if lending quiet support without pushing.

Kayla understood. Refusing an arrangement like this — right here, in front of two families who had clearly already agreed and were brimming with enthusiasm — would be unbearably awkward. Especially for her father, who had misled her about the purpose of this dinner. Then she saw Demian's smile, full of conviction and hope, and she exhaled in surrender, forcing herself to smile back.

"Alright, Uncle, Aunt. I accept," Kayla said in a voice barely above a whisper — but clear enough in the silent room.

Wide smiles bloomed on Anya's, Bastian's, and Emma's faces. The tension evaporated instantly, replaced by warmth and cheer.

Emma rose from her chair, walked over to Kayla, and wrapped her in a tight embrace. "Welcome to our family, sweetheart. I already think of you as my own daughter," she whispered sincerely.

Arthur, who had been silent the entire time, gave his father the faintest nod. A minimal reaction — but enough for Bastian.

"Wonderful. Now that everyone's on board, how about we discuss the wedding date and preparations?" Demian suggested, visibly relieved and happy.

The conversation moved to wedding plans. They decided to hold the ceremony within a month, the reasoning being that when Kayla started her clinical rotation in Country A, she would have someone to look after her. Kayla mostly listened. She'd just learned that Arthur was a doctor at one of the hospitals in Country A, but she didn't ask for details — she was still too intimidated by him.

Just before the dinner ended, as everyone was gathering their things, Anya pulled Kayla slightly aside.

"Kayla, sweetheart. Why did you look so scared when you saw Arthur?" her mother asked, concern threading through her voice.

Kayla froze. She couldn't explain the fear that had hit her out of nowhere, as if Arthur radiated some kind of dangerous aura.

"N-no, Mom. I was probably just nervous because it's the first time meeting him," Kayla lied, plastering on a smile.

Anya cupped Kayla's cheek gently. "I hope you're not hiding anything. Arthur may look serious and intimidating, but he's a good person. Don't be afraid, okay?"

Kayla nodded.

After saying their goodbyes and thank-yous, Kayla and her parents left the restaurant. In the car, both Demian and Anya were practically glowing with happiness.

"Thank you, Kayla, for agreeing to this arrangement," Demian said.

"Why didn't you just tell me from the beginning that this was an arranged marriage, not just an introduction?" Kayla asked, unable to hide the disappointment in her voice.

Demian sighed. "I'm sorry, sweetheart. I knew you'd refuse if I told you the truth, so I had to bend it a little."

"But why does it have to be so rushed? Can't it wait until after I finish my degree?" Kayla asked.

"Your mom and I can't keep watching over you forever. The best thing we can do is give you a husband we trust completely — a man we believe is the right one for you. And that man is Arthur. Besides, he lives in Country A too, so when you start your rotation there, you'll have someone to take care of you. Your mom and I won't have to worry anymore," Demian said.

Kayla went quiet. "Where are you and Mom going? Why can't you look after me?"

"Kayla, I've told you before — your mom and I want to move to the countryside and enjoy our time there. I want to make that dream come true for both of us. You and Adrian are settled now. It's our turn to have some time to ourselves," Demian said.

Hearing her father's answer, Kayla understood. She made her peace with the arrangement.

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To be continued...

The days went by, and the one day Kayla had not been looking forward to finally arrived. Today she was marrying a man she had known for exactly one month. A wedding so sudden and rushed — and yet here she was, in the middle of what was supposed to be the most important chapter of her education.

The ceremony took place at a church not far from Kayla's apartment. There was no reception, no grand affair — just a simple dinner with both families at Kayla's apartment, which was spacious enough to host them comfortably.

...

The vows went smoothly, and just like that, Kayla and Arthur were officially husband and wife. After the ceremony, Arthur remained silent. He didn't make conversation, didn't attempt small talk. He only spoke when his parents addressed him directly; otherwise, he said nothing.

By now, Arthur, Kayla, and both families were back at Kayla's apartment. "This is a lovely apartment. Quite roomy, too," Emma remarked.

"I told Kayla to find a big one so she'd be comfortable living here," Demian said.

The gathering continued. Arthur and Kayla sat side by side on the living room sofa in silence while everyone else chatted around them. Eventually, Emma made her way over.

"Arthur, don't just sit there. Talk to your wife," Emma said.

"Okay," Arthur replied.

He turned toward Kayla. "W-what is it?" Kayla stammered, unnerved by the razor-sharp gaze he fixed on her, as if he were about to skin her alive.

"Do you want something to eat?" Arthur asked.

"No, I-I'm full," Kayla answered.

"Full? When did you eat?"

"This morning, before the church," Kayla said vaguely.

"Alright then," Arthur said, then stood and walked to the dining table.

At the table, Emma noticed her son approaching to help himself to the food.

"Where's Kayla?" she asked.

"In the living room. She said she's not hungry — already ate," Arthur answered.

"You should have insisted. Women like it when you push a little," Emma said, then headed to the living room to keep Kayla company.

Meanwhile, Kayla watched Arthur walk away toward the dining table and let out a long breath. It felt like the oxygen around her had finally returned now that the man was gone. But the reprieve was short-lived, because Emma sat down right next to her, filling the spot Arthur had just vacated.

"Kayla, sweetheart, that's just how Arthur is. He's stiff and terrible at small talk, but he's caring in his own way," Emma said, gently stroking Kayla's hand.

Kayla managed a thin smile, not daring to disagree. Caring? He hasn't even asked why I'm terrified of him, she thought.

"Of course, Mom," Kayla said.

At the dining table, Arthur ate with calm precision. Every movement was neat and efficient — a reflection of his discipline as a doctor. Even while eating, his presence dominated the room. He answered Demian's occasional questions with nods or one-word responses.

By ten o'clock, both families decided to stay at a hotel for the night, wanting to give Kayla and Arthur space to get acquainted. No one would be staying over at the apartment.

"Remember, Arthur — don't be rough. Poor Kayla," Emma said.

Kayla's face burned at the words. Arthur, on the other hand, looked completely unbothered — and even responded. "I'll be gentle," he said.

"I can't wait for grandchildren," Anya chimed in.

"Oh, same here," Emma agreed with a laugh.

"Dad, take Mom home," Arthur told Bastian flatly.

"Ha! Right, right. We'll head out now," Bastian said with a chuckle.

"Be good and listen to your husband, okay?" Demian told Kayla.

"I will, Dad. Take care of yourself. Don't forget about me," Kayla said.

"Never. How could I forget my favorite girl? We're heading out now. Arthur — take care of my daughter. If anything happens to her, you'll answer to me," Demian said.

"I will, Dad. I'll never hurt Kayla," Arthur said.

"Good. I'll hold you to that," Demian said, and then he was gone.

The apartment that had been bustling with noise fell dead silent. Only Kayla and Arthur remained, standing in the middle of the living room.

"I-I'm going to go get cleaned up," Kayla said, breaking the silence.

She hurried into the bedroom — which was now their bedroom too. Inside, she spotted Arthur's suitcase already sitting in the corner. It felt strange seeing a stranger's belongings in her most private space. After a shower, she changed into full-length pajamas that covered her from neck to ankle and stepped out — only to find Arthur sitting on the edge of the bed, having just removed his dress shirt.

Kayla froze in the bathroom doorway. Arthur's broad back was on full display — solid, sculpted muscle clearly defined — and she reflexively looked away.

"All done?" Arthur asked without turning around.

"Yeah," Kayla said quietly.

Arthur stood, grabbed a towel, and brushed past Kayla on his way to the bathroom. As he passed, the scent of his woody cologne mixed with something unmistakably masculine hit her, and her heart hammered in her chest.

A few minutes later, Arthur emerged wearing only a pair of loose-fitting pants. He climbed onto the bed and leaned back against the headboard. Kayla was still standing stiffly on the other side.

"Go to sleep. I won't ask for anything tonight. I'm too tired," Arthur said.

Kayla climbed onto the bed with painstaking care, positioning herself at the very edge — so far to one side she was practically hanging off, too afraid to let even a centimeter of her body touch Arthur's.

"Don't sleep that far over. You'll fall off," Arthur's deep voice cut through the darkness, making Kayla flinch.

"I-I'm fine," she answered quickly, but didn't budge.

Seeing that she refused to move, Arthur grew impatient. "Scoot over here. I already told you, I'm not going to ask for anything."

"Really, this is comfortable," Kayla insisted.

Comfortable? She's about to topple off the bed, Arthur thought.

Giving up on words, Arthur moved over to Kayla, wrapped his arm around her from behind, and pulled her toward the center of the mattress in one smooth motion.

Kayla's brain short-circuited. By the time she processed what had happened and tried to pull away, Arthur was already holding her firmly by the waist.

"Stop moving. It's been a long day, so go to sleep," Arthur said, still holding her from behind.

With no way to escape, Kayla surrendered. She closed her eyes and, before she knew it, drifted off in the arms of the husband she had just married that very day.

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To be continued...