A Family Affair

Tristan

- Did you just say I have to marry the man of my father's choosing?

- You have to marry him in the next six months, otherwise you'll never get access to your inheritance.

I look over to gauge Elijah's reaction. His face has gone slack, his knuckles are whitening, and his stare is empty.

- You knew about this, Mother?

- I knew about the arranged marriage, but I didn't know your father would use it to condition your inheritance.

The lawyer stands up, looking uncomfortable.

- If I'm not needed any longer, I would like to excuse myself.

When no one pays him attention, he leaves and shuts the door behind him. Long, silent moments follow.

- This can't be happening?

- Who is it? Who are you and Richard marrying Ella off to? Elijah said with anger.

There's an angry bite to his tone, but my mother doesn't seem to notice.

- It's Tristan Baron.

- I've heard that name before.

- Of course you did. He's an accomplished lawyer and the heir of one of the most respected old money families in this country.

- Maybe he'll refuse.

- Your father and I have already met with Barons, and they told us that Tristan is thrilled by this match.

- How could he be thrilled? He doesn't even know me!

- You're a Presley, Ella. Of course, he's thrilled.

- You can't seriously be so nonchalant about this. Victoria said.

- Mother, how could you do this behind my back?

- Richard and I were going to talk to you in private. You weren't supposed to find out like this.

- I can't believe this. Father betrayed me again, first in Paris, and now from beyond the grave.

- What are you talking about?

- I can't even look at you right now, Mother.

My mother stands up and stalks off. When she reaches the door, she glances at me over her shoulder.

- Tristan is a handsome, intelligent, and kind man, Ella. You should wait to meet him before making any rash decisions.

She holds my gaze for another second, and then she walks out of the room.

- We'll fix this, Ella. Victoria said.

- Father did this to make sure I'll never be a threat to your marriage. Maybe it's time to admit he won.

- Angel, wait...

Elijah reaches for me, but I pull my hand from his grip. Then I turn on my heels and storm out of the room. I sit in utter shock in my father's study for ten minutes, before I hear a soft knock.

- Can I join you?

I nod weakly. Victoria sinks into the armchair next to mine and watches me cautiously.

- You don't have to do this, sissy. You don't have to marry him.

- Don't I?

- You don't have to worry about the money. I'll gladly share my part of the inheritance with you.

- Victoria, I can't take your money. And I don't need more than I make out of my songwriting, but that doesn't mean I can part with my inheritance just like that.