could think of last night after father had left my room. I had called at the houses of the friends of Alina, mocked at all the doors, inquired of every person I could recall that she had spoken to.

s voice growing higher. "I am fully aware of what you are up to. You and Alina are playing games and I am not falling to it!" "I swear it's not a joke!" I said, my voice shaking. "I do not know where she is!" He did not answer instantly. "Then tell me the truth, or I will make you put on the gown, " he said slowly and with a low cold voice. I froze. My stomach dropped. My chest was as though it had been caught between an iron hand. "Father..." I started, my voice trembling. "Please... we may file a missing person report. It is possible to make more calls, visit more destinations. Don't make me do this-" His voice interrupted me, and was as sharp as a whip. "Is it possible that a report will make a difference? You do not know anything, Ariana but we do. I am aware of where your sister is hiding. I know she's with you. I have no idea what sick game you two are playing And, unless you take her out, unless you do what is necessary, you will be the bride." I shook my head, stepping back. "I don't know where she is!" It is, I said, more desperate this time. "I swear I don't! You need not make me, please, you need not-" "Fine," he said after some time. "You wanted money right? You wanted to work right? Do this as a job, replace your sister at the altar till she is found, I'll make sure you'll get the best doctors to treat you." I could feel my hands shaking. My chest heaved. I would have screamed, would have run, would have hid. I would have given anything rather than what he was insisting. And yet... I realized that I could not argue any more. I had no options but nod in agreement. He took out his