I Won't Marry You!

Isabella turned paled and she grabbed his sleeve. "You ask me to marry you. Is my question funny?"

The smile on Joseph's face instantly disappeared. He pinched her chin and stared at her fiercely. "Listen, Isabella. As long as you are obedient, I can give you the grandest wedding. You will become the most respected young mistress of the Wilsons. You will have money, delicacy, and beautiful clothing far more than you need. You will never be bullied by anyone. But don't talk about love with me, understand? Stupid!"

Isabella was frightened by Joseph's sudden outburst and her eyes turned red. "If you don't love me, why are you getting married to me?"

"Marriage is not equal to love!"

Joseph said harshly, "I, Joseph, am a practical person, not a young boy who knows nothing but romance. If you want to have esteem and fortune, marry me. If not, get away. Don't ask me for love, because it's unrealistic! It is your only opportunity to enter the upper class!"

"I don't care!"