Gold digging parents forced their 13-year-old daughter to marry a millionaire chic for her dowy. Even though she cried and begged them not to. But at the moment of the yes, when the chic reveals the real purpose of the marriage and a secret he was hiding from everyone, no one could have expected the turn of events that would follow.

 

I don’t want to marry that old man, Mom. Please, I don’t want to marry him, cried Alice, her voice and her body shaking with despair. The words barely came out of her mouth, drowned out by the tears that flowed uncontrollably, making her white dress even heavier. Tara, her mother, seemed immune to her daughter’s pain.

With cold, calculated movements, she adjusted the last details of her wedding dress, a dress that was more like war armor than a dream dress for the little girl of only 13 years old. With false delicacy and kindness, the mother adjusted the glittering tiara on her daughter’s head, took a step back, and with a proud smile said, “You look stunning, dear.

” Alice, choking with anguish, approached her mother, her trembling hands clutching the fabric of her dress. “Mom, please, I’m only 13. Get me out of here. Don’t let me marry that old man,” she begged. Her gaze was lost, like someone looking for a last thread of hope. But without feeling sympathy for her daughter, Tara raised her finger to Alice’s lips, shushing her. “Hush, my love. One day you’ll understand.

Everything your father and I are doing is for your own good,” she said with fake gentleness. But her eyes shone with lust and satisfaction. Alice, feeling her anger rising, let go of her mother. “You’re lying. You’re only thinking of yourselves,” she shouted, her eyes red from crying. The girl’s mother lost her composure.

With a hard look on her face, she retorted, “Don’t you ever say this again, you ungrateful little girl. We have always done everything for you. Now it’s time for you to pay us back. You are going to marry Shik Omar.” Alice was silent. Her heart was pounding and her breathing was irregular. Then Francis, her father, entered the room, bringing with him the same aura of false joy as Tara.

“How’s our little princess?” he asked with a broad smile. ignoring the suffering on his daughter’s face. Tara pointed at Alice, puffing out her chest with pride. “Look at her. She’s beautiful, right? The chic will love her.” And indeed, she was beautiful. The white dress fell in soft layers decorated with hand embroidered flowers.

A translucent veil slid over her brown hair held in place by a diamondstudded tiara. On her slender wrists, gold bracelets sparkled. And on her small feet, white shoes completed the picture. She looked like a real princess, but it was forced. Even the sweet perfume that emanated from her seemed to stand out from the scene of pure terror. on her face.

There was a vivid image of sadness, a painful contrast to all the pomp around her. Alice kept her head down, unable to look at her father. Francis then knelt down to her level, gently lifted her chin, and ordered, “Heads up, sweetheart. Today is a special day.” Alice’s eyes filled with tears once again.

She shook her head, pleading silently, and then between sobs, whispered, begging, “Dad, please don’t make me do this. Let’s just get out of here.” Francis looked away as if he couldn’t face his own conscience. “Tara, give me a tissue,” he said, his voice hard and his countenance heavy. Obediently, his wife brought him the tissue, and with firm hands, he wiped his daughter’s wet face.

“No more crying from now on,” Francis ordered. “You need to cheer up, dear. In a few minutes, you’ll become a princess, the wife of one of the richest men in Arabia, this castle. It’ll all be yours,” said Tara, forcing a smile that looked more like forced excitement. Little Alice, trying to find the strength to say something, opened her mouth, but again her mother put her finger to her lips.

“Quiet, girl, I don’t want to hear another word,” she warned, this time with a menacing glint in her eyes. Francis, looking at his daughter with a firm gaze, said, “You’re lucky, Alice. Lots of girls would give anything to be in your place. Now smile, smile, our Arabian princess. Just then the door opened with a creek and Isaac, the faithful assistant to the feared chic Omar, emerged. He quickly scanned the room before asking in a firm voice.

Is the bride ready? “Yes, she is,” replied Francis. His voice was imbued with anxiety and greed. Then follow me,” Isaac ordered, gesturing with his hand. The parents walked ahead, full of joy, like someone approaching an unattainable treasure. For them, marriage meant wealth, status, a life of luxury they had never dreamed of.

For Alice, however, every step was like crossing a minefield where every breath seemed to weigh a ton, like at any moment now her life would be over. Every element of the setting, the golden glow of the decorations, the scent of the rare flowers, the music playing softly in the background, the curtains swaying slightly in the warm breeze.

Everything was a painful reminder that she was about to lose her freedom, her childhood, her dreams. The girl walked with her feet dragging, her heavy dress making it even more difficult. The fabric seemed to want to trap her, as if fate itself were entangling her. To the outside eye, it was a fairy tale moment, but to her, it was a nightmare she couldn’t wake up from.

Alice looked around, searching for an escape, but it was impossible. Guards were scattered throughout the castle, watching her every move, and the guests, who were already there, eager to witness the supposed fairy tale wedding, would give her no chance to escape. each curious face an extra wall in her invisible prison. Arriving at the main garden where the wedding was to take place, her eyes landed on the altar.

And there he was, Omar the chic, a full grown-up, old man with deep wrinkles carved by his many years, eyes as cold as the desert at night, and an indecipherable smile on his aged face. A shiver went down Alice’s spine, making her hesitate. And for a moment, and even thought she would faint. “What’s my life going to be like after this?” she thought, her heart squeezing in agony and fear.

Her gaze desperately searched for something, anything, that could save her. But there was nothing. Only the blinding glare of greed and the inevitable trap that awaited her, silent and cruel. She looked at her parents one last time. She saw her mother smiling broadly and her father too, both blinded by greed.

A tear of sadness escaped from her eyes and ran down her young, innocent face, leaving a cold trail on her warm, soft skin. “How? How could they have the guts to do this to me?” she thought, her heartbreaking in silence. But to understand this story and the reason why little Alice was being forced to marry Shik Omar, we have to go back in time a little bit a few weeks before that fateful day.

That day, Omar was alone in his chambers, sitting in his upholstered armchair, surrounded by luxurious tapestries and furniture carved from rare wood. His expression was serious, as it had always been. In his hands, he held a photograph which he stared at with tearful eyes. Silence filled the room, broken only by the soft sound of the wind rustling the heavy curtains.

Suddenly, the door creaked softly, and Isaac, the chic’s faithful right-hand man, walked in with firm but respectful steps. “Your Majesty, did you call me?” asked Isaac, bowing his head slightly, showing cordiality and obedience towards the shake. Omar quickly tucked the photo into his cloak and stood up imposingly. He walked over to Isaac and the man noticed something unusual.

There was a different gleam in the chic’s eyes, one he hadn’t seen for a long time. Omar had always been a frowning man, always with a serious expression on his face, almost carved from stone. But at that moment, he seemed to exhibit something close to hope. Yes, Isaac. I called you here because I have a mission for you. Announced the chic in his deep, firm voice. Isaac was quick to reply.

What mission would that be, sir? As always, I’m willing to carry out any order you give me. A small smile appeared on Omar’s face, something so rare that it made Isaac hold his breath. Then, the chic looked straight into the man’s eyes and declared, “I’m getting married, and I need you to find me a bride. Isaac’s eyes widened instantly with surprise.

“You’re getting married?” he repeated incredulously. Isaac had worked in the palace for many years. And since the passing of the Sheik’s wife, he had never heard Omar even mention getting married again. Isaac had always tried to encourage the Shik to find love again, someone who could ease the burden of his loneliness.

But for years, Omar had steadfastly refused all suggestions. Now on the verge of his 70th birthday, he declared that he wanted a wife. Several questions popped into Isaac’s mind. But as he always did, he held back his curiosity. I’ll do as you ask, sir. I’ll help you choose a wonderful bride, and I’ll also prepare the best wedding ceremony of all.

Omar put a heavy hand on his subject’s shoulder and said, “I knew I could count on you.” Isaac, still surprised, asked, “But do you have a preference, your majesty? Do you want a blonde, a brunette, red-headed, taller, shorter? Perhaps some particular quality that is primordial. I want to find the perfect wife for you.

” The shake walked slowly around the room as if reflecting. “I don’t really care about looks, Isaac. Only age. Age? asked the man, frowning. Yes, age, replied Omar, standing in front of the window and looking out at the desert horizon. I want my fiance to be 13 years old. Not a year older, not a year younger. At that moment, Isaac’s eyes widened again, this time in complete shock. 13.

Isaac’s head was spinning. For him, this was deeply wrong. A 13-year-old girl shouldn’t marry, let alone a man of the chic’s age. He tried to say something very cautiously. Is your majesty really sure about this? Perhaps a more mature wife would be more ideal for you, sir. You could share life together with more understanding and maturity.

Perhaps someone your own age or a little younger, maybe 55 or 50. Omar shook his head in denial with a firm expression. I don’t want a bride of 60, nor a 50year-old, nor a 40year-old. I want a 13-year-old bride. Not a year older, not a year younger. Do you understand? Isaac realized that he was treading on dangerous ground. In a lastditch effort, he tried to appeal to reason.

Sir, perhaps, perhaps a young woman of at least 20, it would be more appropriate. But before he could finish his sentence, Omar frowned, his face taking on an expression of absolute severity. You know me well, Isaac. You know I don’t like to be contradicted. If I’ve asked for a 13-year-old bride, that’s exactly what I want.

Isaac immediately lowered its head and agreed. Yes, sir. As you wish. Although his heart was heavy, Isaac knew that going against the chic could mean not just the end of his career, but the end of his life. As much as he thought that request was wrong, he also knew that in his country, in his culture, it wasn’t considered a crime.

Prepare a big banquet at the castle in a few weeks time,” Omar ordered, settling back in his armchair. “Invite all parents with 13-year-old daughters. Tell them that I will choose my bride at this banquet. I want everyone there. Yes, sir. It will be done as you wish, replied Isaac, keeping his head down before leaving. As he left the room, his mind was hammering non-stop.

He knew that even though it wasn’t a crime, it was morally questionable. But what could he do? The answer was simple. Nothing. So, he decided to go against everything he thought was right and look for a 13-year-old bride for his majesty, the chic. Alone once again, Omar took out the photograph from inside the cloak again.

It was an old picture yellowed by time. He sat down in his armchair and ran his hand over the picture, and at that moment, a tear ran down the sheik’s cheek. Thousands of miles away from the Shik’s palace in Saudi Arabia, in a small coastal city in Brazil, a man wearing a mask who appeared to be in his 40s was running wildly through the stands of a busy street fair.

In his right hand, he held a huge fish which he had just stolen. A crowd of traders from the fair ran after him, and some curious onlookers shouted, “Catch the thief! Catch the thief!” The sound of footsteps echoed through the cramped aisles of the fair, mixing with the bustle of vendors and customers.

The man dodged the people, knocking fruit and vegetables to the ground. His breathing was labored, but his agility was impressive. He knew those alleys like the back of his hand. He ducked into a narrow alleyway with peeling brick walls and turned right, then left until he lost sight of the crowd chasing him.

When he finally stopped, he removed the mask covering his face and wiped his sweaty forehead with the back of his hand. “That was a close one,” he muttered, still panting. He looked at the fish in his hand and smiled with satisfaction. “But at least we’ll have a nice dinner.” Shortly afterwards, the man arrived in front of a small, simple house with peeling walls and a wooden door already worn down by time. He entered his humble home with a victorious smile on his face.

With no ceremony, he threw the fish into the kitchen sink. “Honey, look what I’ve brought for dinner.” Tara, his wife, emerged from the bedroom with a tired expression. Her eyes immediately landed on the fish and then on her husband. She huffed, crossing her arms.

“Francis, did you steal another fish? Is that all you know how to do now?” It was either that or we’d run out of food for dinner, replied Francis with a mischievous grin. Now clean that fish. I’m hungry. Tara picked up the knife and went to the sink. As she began to clean the fish, she couldn’t contain her frustration. Francis, we can’t live like this anymore.

I’m tired of this life, of this misery. I want more. Francis threw himself down on the old sofa in the living room and let out a sigh. Calm down, woman. I’m looking for a new way to scheme people, but it’s hard. People don’t fall for scams as easily as they used to in my days. Tara snorted again, her tired look reflecting years of frustration.

Then get a job, Francis. This situation is untenable. We can’t keep on living like this. The man let out an ironic laugh. A job? That’s not for me. I was born to scam people. Sooner or later, I’ll find a way to make some easy money for us. You’ll see. Terra dropped the knife with force into the sink, making a metallic noise. She crossed her arms and faced her husband.

You promised me a princess life when you took me away from my parents, Francis. You said we were going to live in luxury, and so far we are living like rats in a sewer, scavenging for scraps from other people. Francis stood up and walked over to his wife, holding her by the shoulders.

You knew what you were getting yourself into, dear. I’m a rascal. I rob and I scam. That’s what caught your eye when we first met. Remember? The woman looked down, shaking her head. I know, but I thought you were going to grow up someday, become the head of a gang or something, not a fish thief.” Francis snorted, letting go of his wife’s shoulders. “You could help, too, you know.

Have you found a rich fool to give you some presents?” Tara gave a short, bitter laugh. Here at this miserable place, there’s no one at my level. And besides, I’m not the young girl I used to be. Even if we went back to the capital, it would be hard for me to find a rich old man that still wants me. They only want the young girls now. Francis smiled.

We’re lucky to have Alice. She’ll soon be all grown up, and as pretty as she is, she’ll hook an old man who will not only pay for her stuff, but also for ours. Tara raised her hands to the sky as if praying, “Lord, hear you, because so far that little brat has given us nothing but expenses.” She paused as her countenance became more serious.

But I don’t know if she’ll want this life, Francis. She’s always been Miss Wright. Francis closed his face, and his expression hardened. She has to accept it. We’ve done everything for her. We raised Alice as well as we could. When she’s old enough, it’ll be time for her to give us something back.

He looked around, searching for his daughter. Speaking of Alice, where is she? At her friend’s house, replied Tara, turning her attention back to the fish. In that humble house, this was the routine. Tara and Francis were a couple of scammers surviving on petty theft and scams. Living off honest work had never been an option for them.

Meanwhile, young Alice, just 13 years old, was oblivious to the true nature of her parents. Although she realized that they rarely worked, she naively believed that they lived a decent, honest life. The innocent girl dreamed of a different future from the one her parents wanted for her.

But what she didn’t know was that her destiny was already being traced. That evening, after a simple but tasty dinner, a good fish stew, Alice kissed her parents good night and went up to her room. As always, before sleeping, she lay in bed with a book in her hands, immersing herself in the story she loved so much. Meanwhile, Francis threw himself on the couch next to Tara. The couple were distracted watching some show on the TV.

They weren’t even paying attention as they were both more attentive to their cell phones than to the content on the TV. The evening went on monotonously until suddenly Francis jumped onto the couch, startling his wife. Tara almost fell over with shock. My god, man. What a fright. What now? She asked with her hand on her chest, pounding.

The husband didn’t reply immediately. With wide eyes and a mischievous smile, he held out his cell phone to his wife, showing her something on the screen. Tara, look at this. The screen flashed with an article from some website. The headline was eye-catching. Saudi Arabian billionaire chic seeks bride.

Tara frowned, not understanding her husband’s excitement. What about it? The wedding of a chic in Saudi Arabia. That has nothing to do with us. Francis shook his head, still smiling. You don’t understand, woman. He hasn’t found his fianceé yet. He’s looking for one. His wife looked at the article again without much interest.

So, what? Do you think he’s going to choose a Brazilian? It was then that Francis came closer with a cunning glint in his eyes. The article says he’s looking for a bride with specific requirements. Tara stared at her husband and with a mocking smile asked, “Are you talking about me? Do you want me to marry the chic?” Francis burst out laughing. “No, woman.

You said yourself earlier that you’re not that young anymore.” “Oh, thank you very much,” replied Tara ironically. “And since when does this chic want a young girl? From his wrinkles, he’s already got one foot in the grave. He must be interested in a woman more his own age. I still don’t understand what you’re getting at. He doesn’t just want young girls, Tara, said Francis, holding back his laughter.

He demands that his bride be 13 years old, not a year older, not a year younger. Tara widened her eyes and put her hand to her mouth. Oh my god, 13. Can a 13-year-old girl even get married? Is that allowed? It’s not allowed here in Brazil, but there in Saudi Arabia it’s allowed,” explained Francis naturally.

He then leaned over to his wife and in a low voice asked, “Do you know who is 13 now?” The woman froze, her expression changed instantly. “Our daughter, Alice!” She slumped back on the sofa. “You can’t be serious, Francis.” Francis held his wife’s hand tightly. Oh, but I am. Look at this article. The wedding is in a few weeks, and he wants a 13-year-old bride. Alice is perfect.

As well as being beautiful, remember that she’s learned a few words of Arabic. She’s always been fascinated by Saudi culture. That could make all the difference. Tara shook her head in denial. You’re delusional. Even if I agreed to this madness, how would we even get there? We don’t even have the money to buy food, let alone tickets and accommodation in Saudi Arabia. Francis took a deep breath and pulled his wife to sit down again.

Listen to my plan. We have no money, but we have this house. Small, but on the coast. Our neighbor has already made an offer to buy it and open an inn.” Tara frowned, beginning to understand what her husband was getting at. We sell the house. We take the money, buy the tickets, and go to Saudi Arabia. There, we marry Alice to the chic.

We receive the dowy. And that’s it. We’re rich. What’s more, she becomes heir to a gigantic fortune since, from what I’ve read, the chic has no children. The woman let out a nervous laugh. In theory, it sounds great, but in practice, how can we guarantee that Alice will be chosen? Girls from all over the world are applying.

The chances of her being chosen are slim to none. The man came even closer, speaking with conviction. Trust me. Trust our daughter. We’ve raised her well. Alice is beautiful. She even looks similar to the little Saudi girls, and she can speak a few words of Arabic, too. That’s a plus.

Tara sighed deeply, looking at her husband uncertainty. What if she isn’t chosen? What will we do? We’ll have sold our only asset. We’ll be in another country with people we don’t know, and without speaking the language. It’s too risky. Francis put his hands on his wife’s shoulders. I’m sure it will work out, but even if it doesn’t, there are opportunities there, too.

And I’ve already thought of a plan B if we need it. Tara remained silent, pondering her husband’s words. She knew that Francis was a trickster, always finding a way out of the worst situations. But this time, they were talking about something that had a huge chance of going wrong. So, the woman asked what this plan B was.

Francis with a broad smile said that he had already planned everything in his head even in such a short time. “If our daughter isn’t chosen by the chic, she’ll certainly be chosen by another millionaire,” he said with conviction. “That place is full of rich old men who would give anything for a girl like Alice. If not the chic, then someone else.

But we’ll get the girl married and make a lot of money from it.” Tara, still with a fearful expression, crossed her arms, looking at her husband suspiciously. “Francis, what if it’s not that easy? What if no one is interested in her?” “Trust me this time,” insisted Francis, holding his wife’s hands firmly. “I have a good feeling about this.

This time it will work out.” She sighed deeply, and after a few seconds of hesitation, agreed with a slight nod. I hope you’re right. I am. Trust me. Our future will be filled with money and power. Didn’t tell you that I’d give you a princess life, my love. Well, that time has come, my dear. Over the next few days, the couple put their daring plan into practice.

They sold the house to the interested neighbor, negotiating a reasonable price in exchange for a short time to vacate. With the money in hand, they began to sort out the paperwork. They arranged for their passports, too, and began the preparations for their trip to Saudi Arabia.

The days were busy, and Tara, even though her heart was tight, helped with the paperwork. Sometimes she hesitated and thought about giving up, but Francis always convinced her with his confident speeches. When they traveled to the capital to get their passports, Alice found the sudden trip strange.

Mom, Dad, what are we doing here? Why do we need to travel? Francis, already anticipating the question, answered without hesitation, as if he had rehearsed every word. I’ve won a raffle, my princess, an all expenses paid trip to anywhere in the world. For me and two other people, and since I know you’ve always been passionate about Saudi culture, we’ve chosen Arabia as our destination.

Alice’s eyes shone with excitement. “Really, Dad?” she asked with a beaming smile. She looked at her mother for confirmation. Tara forced a smile and said, “Yes, my love. We’re going to make your dream come true.” Alice hugged her parents tightly, completely moved and oblivious to the hidden thoughts that dominated their minds.

For her, this would be the start of a magical adventure. About 2 weeks later, after a long and tiring trip, Alice found herself in a place that seemed like something out of her favorite stories. It was like living in a dream. She walked into a wonderful castle decorated with golden arches and colorful mosaics that shone in the evening light.

The marble floor reflected the golden lights, and the walls were adorned with luxurious tapestries and delicate arabes. A stunning garden surrounded the castle, filled with tall palm trees, exotic flowers, and crystalclear fountains that emitted a soft, relaxing sound. The scent of the flowers mingled with the perfume of spices in the air.

In the garden, several tables were arranged in perfect harmony, each decorated with silk tablecloths and exuberant floral arrangements. A huge banquet occupied the center with typical Arabic dishes and international delicacies displaying an explosion of colors and aromomas that delighted the senses. Alice dazzled looked around in awe.

Mom, Dad, how did you get an invitation to such a palace? Tara stroked her daughter’s hair, smiling tenderly. Everything we do is for you, honey. We love you more than anything in the world. Francis nodded with a proud smile and added, “You’re our little princess, Alice.” And indeed, Alice looked like a princess that night.

She was wearing an elegant yellow Arab dress with gold embroidered details that they had bought that morning. Her hair was adorned with small pearls and a light veil partially covered her face. She felt stunning and happy. The girl tried some of the delicious delicacies laid out at the banquet, savoring spices and sweets like she had never tasted before. The taste was incredible. Each bite a new discovery for her pallet.

But after a satisfying meal, she finally looked away from the wonders of the castle and began to observe the people around her. Until then, she had been so fascinated by the palace’s beauty that she hadn’t paid any attention to the other guests. It was then that she noticed something strange. At every table, absolutely every table, the same pattern was repeated.

A man, a woman, and a young girl who looked about her age. The girls were beautifully dressed in impeccable traditional costumes, but most of them had sad, apprehensive looks. Alice frowned. Mom, Dad, have you noticed that all the guests are the same? always a father, a mother, and a young girl just like us. Before she could say anything else, a bright light illuminated the stage in the center of the garden.

Conversations ceased immediately. The sound of the water in the fountains was drowned out by the sudden silence. On the stage, a gentleman in luxurious Arab clothes appeared, his face serious and without a smile. Next to him, another man in simpler clothes, probably an assistant or adviser. Alice held her breath.

She immediately recognized who the man was. It’s the chic, the owner of this palace. The chic approached the microphone and said, “Good evening, everyone. I am Omar, the chic of this country.” He announced in Arabic. Although Alice only understood a few sentences, she managed to catch the meaning of the speech. Omar continued his speech.

Alice listened attentively, feeling a mixture of curiosity and unease. When he declared in Arabic that he would choose his bride that night, the girl’s blood ran cold and a chill ran down her spine. She looked around again. Now it all made sense. The girls weren’t there by chance. They were there to be chosen as the chic’s bride. Terrified, Alice turned to her parents.

Mom, Dad, is this what I think it is? Is that man going to choose one of the girls to be his bride? For the first time, the usual sweetness in Terara and Francis’s eyes disappeared. Their expressions became hard, inflexible, and firm. “Keep quiet and smile, Alice. Don’t cause a scene,” ordered Francis in a low but firm voice.

Alice’s heart raced. She felt completely terrified but she obeyed. She remained there sitting in her chair trying to contain the panic that threatened to overwhelm her. Shake Omar with his stern expression began to walk slowly through the immense garden alongside his faithful right-hand man Isaac.

The sound of his sandals against the marble echoed among the tables where fathers and mothers waited anxiously, each hoping that their daughter would be chosen. The fountains nearby murmured softly, contrasting with the tense silence that hung in the air.

Approaching the first family, Omar was greeted with smiles and boughs. The young woman’s father soon took the lead with a glint of hope in his eyes. “Your majesty, this is my daughter. She is very beautiful and will make the perfect wife for you,” he declared, his voice laden with adgulation. her mother hurriedly added. She already knows how to do all the house chores.

She cooks and cleans, and she’s even learned how to dance. She’ll make an ideal wife. The girl, a young woman with frightened eyes and trembling hands, looked at the chic with obvious fear. Despite her terror, she mechanically repeated her parents’ words. “Yes, I’m the ideal wife.” Omar kept his face impassive. He shook his head in denial.

I don’t care, he said coolly. The only thing that matters to me is the girl’s feet. I want to see her feet. If she has what I’m looking for, then she’ll be my bride. The father, surprised, hesitated. Her feet? Before he could ask any more questions, the mother, understanding the order, quickly took off her daughter’s shoes and showed him the girl’s feet.

Look, your majesty, her feet are delicate, fragrant, and beautiful, as a princess’s feet should be. Omar knelt down, watched carefully, and touched the young woman’s foot with his wrinkled hands. Her face remained serious. After a few seconds, he shook his head negatively. “It’s no good. It’s not what I’m looking for. Get out of my castle.

” The parents were disconcerted, but obeyed without protest. So Omar and Isaac went on to the next table. And so it went on. From table to table the ritual was repeated. The fathers extolled their daughters qualities. The girls tried to disguise their fear. And the shake examined each one’s feet. Each time he looked, he made the same gesture, a negative shake of the head.

One after the other, he turned them all down. None seemed to meet his strange criteria. Alice watched everything with her heart racing. Her hands were sweating and her legs were shaking. Every refusal the chic made her even more apprehensive. She didn’t know why he was so obsessed with the little girl’s feet, but she knew that the closer he got, the harder it was to stay calm.

When Omar finally arrived at Alice’s table, Francis was the first to speak with great excitement and said his rehearsed speech. Your Majesty, this is our daughter Alice. She’s beautiful, polite, and already knows the Arabic language. A real princess for you, Tara hastened to add. And she can sew, cook, and is very obedient. The perfect wife for your majesty. Isaac, attentive, translated every word to the chic with precision.

Alice, sitting down, could hardly believe what she was hearing. How could her own parents give her away like that? They were literally selling her youth and her freedom to a man who was old enough to be her grandfather. Despite her shock, she tried to calm down, thinking that she would just be another girl rejected.

After all, so many feet had already been rejected. Hers would be no different. Omar waved his hand. I want to see her feet. Tara, with surprising agility, knelt down and quickly removed her daughter’s shoes. Alice tried to resist, but her mother whispered, “Be quiet. Don’t ruin everything.” Omar knelt down.

He took the girl’s feet in his wrinkled hands and examined them with meticulous attention. Time seemed to stop. Everyone around watched the scene in absolute silence. Then, for the first time that evening, the chic smiled. A discreet smile, but one that transformed his firm expression into a bright one. Standing up, he declared firmly, “It’s her.

I chose her. This young woman in front of me will from now on be my bride, and soon she will be my wife.” Isaac translated the words for Francis and Tara. The couple stood in shock for a brief moment. Francis then grinned from ear to ear and hugged his wife. “We did it!” he exclaimed, overjoyed. “Our daughter will be a real princess.

” Alice shook her head in denial, desperate and confused. “No, I don’t want to. I’m not marrying anyone. I’m just a little girl.” Tara quickly covered her daughter’s mouth. “Be quiet, girl. This is a once- ina-lifetime opportunity. Don’t spoil it for us.” Meanwhile, other parents began to get up from their seats.

Indignant voices began to rise. “Your Majesty, it’s not fair. You haven’t seen my daughter yet. She has the most beautiful feet in the world. My daughter’s feet are the most delicate and fragrant in the whole kingdom. But Omar frowned and held up one hand, asking for silence. I’ve made my decision.

There’s nothing more to discuss. The family in front of me can settle in the best room in my castle. Everyone else can leave immediately. His tone was firm and non-negotiable. A murmur of discontent ran through the garden, but no one dared to disobey. One by one, the other fathers and mothers began to leave, taking their daughters with them. Some girls crying discreetly but happily.

Alice, sitting with her heart racing, looked around, desperately searching for a way out. But all the exits seemed to be blocked by guards or by the harsh reality that was imposing itself. The fate she had so feared was now fast approaching. And despite her fear, she knew she had to think of a way to escape. She just didn’t know how yet. But before we continue with our story, tell us in the comments.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? Tell us where you’re watching this video from. Are you enjoying the story? Don’t forget to like and subscribe to help us bring you more and more stories. Now back to our story. It was already bedtime when Shik Omar ordered Isaac to accommodate Francis, Tara, and Alice in the best guest room in the castle. The faithful man only nodded, maintaining his respectful posture.

Although deep down he still didn’t agree with the marriage between his majesty and a young girl. Isaac had always followed the chic’s orders rigorously. But this time his heart was heavy. And so it was. Tara, Francis, and little Alice were led to a luxurious bedroom.

The doors opened to reveal a grand room with two huge beds covered in silk sheets. The golden curtains swayed gently in the evening breeze. The floor was lined with Persian rugs, and the decor was impeccable, worthy of royalty. Everything seemed like it was in a fairy tale movie. In other circumstances, Alice would have been amazed, even euphoric.

But there, in what would be her prison disguised as a palace, she could only feel fear and despair. As soon as they entered, she couldn’t hold back her tears. She sat on the edge of the bed and cried softly. Tara and Francis, oblivious to their daughter’s suffering, were already making plans. Tara looked around the room with a twinkle in her eye. “Oh, I want to live here, Francis. I don’t want to leave this place after Alice gets married.

Francis laughed and shook his head. Oh, you think so, small woman? Our daughter is going to be the wife of one of the greatest cheeks in Arabia. Why settle for sharing his castle? I’ll ask Omar to build a castle just for us, a huge castle with lots of subjects and even more luxury. We’ll have it all. Tara clapped her hands enthusiastically.

Excellent idea, dear. I can already see myself ordering the servants around and traveling wherever I want. While the two of them were making grandiose plans, Alice raised her tearful eyes. Can’t you see how much I’m suffering? I don’t want to marry that old man. I don’t want to marry anyone.

I’m still just a little girl. How could you? The parents approached with fake expressions of affection. Tara caressed her daughter’s face. My dear, you’ll be a real princess. Don’t you want that? Cheer up. You are rich now. We are rich now. Francis added, “You should thank God for the luck you have. The other girls would give anything to be in your place.

” Alice wiped her tears with the back of her hand and replied firmly, “I don’t want to be rich. I just want to live my childhood in peace. I want to run, swim, play. I want to be free.” Before she could continue, Tara made a gesture of silence. Enough, you ungrateful girl. You’re getting married. For better or worse. It’s time to repay us for everything we’ve done for you.

Seeing that she would have no say in this cruel decision, Alice kept quiet, but her heart broke even more. She sat on the bed while her parents excitedly jumped on the other bed and started talking about the trips and luxuries they would have after the wedding. We’re going to see Paris, London, New York, said Tara, dreaming big. Francis agreed.

And all without having to work a day in our lives. The conversation continued until the laughter was replaced by snoring. Finally, they both fell soundly asleep. Alice, still awake, stared at the ceiling. Her mind was racing. I won’t let you decide my fate like this. I won’t get married to an old man. Doesn’t matter if he’s a sheep. Determined, she stood up silently.

She knew she had to act that night before it was too late. She reached into her mother’s handbag and took out her ID and passport. She carefully tucked them under her clothes. Then she looked at the pile of blankets in the room. Quickly, she began to tie them together, creating a sort of makeshift rope.

Tying one end firmly to the leg of the bed, she threw the other end out of the window. She took a deep breath. I’m not staying here to be sold to an old man. No way. With courage and surprising skill for someone her age, Alice began to climb down the outer wall of the castle. Her hands achd with the effort, and her heart was racing.

But she didn’t hesitate. When she reached the ground, she found herself in the castle’s vast garden. The flowers perfumed the night air, and the fountains whispered, indifferent to the drama that was unfolding. The girl tried to remember the way to the exit. She ran to where she thought the main gate was. To her frustration, the gate was locked and too high to climb over.

The bars were firm and she couldn’t get out. Determined, she began to circle the castle, looking for another way to escape. She kept an eye on the guards movements and carefully managed to avoid being seen. But while she was focusing her attention on not being noticed by the chic security, she didn’t realize that there was one person she wasn’t paying attention to. Isaac Shik Omar’s faithful right-hand man was sleepless that night.

The events of the day were playing on his mind. No matter how hard he tried to justify it, he couldn’t understand how his majesty could want to marry a girl who was only 13 years old. The discomfort was immense. His duty was to obey his master, but his heart was conflicted with his orders.

In an attempt to clear his head, he decided to go to the window of his room to get some fresh air. As he opened the curtain and looked outside, his attention was immediately caught. In the other tower of the castle, next to the royal quarters, something caught his eye. Tied sheets hung out of the window, forming an improvised rope.

In an instant, he understood what it was all about. The girl is trying to escape,” he muttered. For a brief moment, Isaac smiled. Deep down, he was against that marriage. He understood her desperation. Anyone in her position would have tried to run away, too. But when he remembered his duties as a subject of Shik Omar, his smile disappeared.

He had sworn loyalty to the shik all his life. And if Omar found out that he had helped or even allowed the escape, it could cost him not only his position, but also his life. He took a deep breath. “I’m sorry, miss. I can’t break my word,” he thought. He begrudgingly set off in search of the girl.

Meanwhile, Alice wandered around the castle in search of a way out. After wandering around the gardens, she found an old sewage pipe. Maybe there’s a way,” she said to herself. She stuck her body into the small opening and began to crawl. That’s when she felt a firm hand grab her arm. “No, please,” she shouted, looking at Isaac. “Please let me go.

Don’t take me back. I know you don’t agree with this. I can see it in your eyes. You’re a good person. Don’t do this to me.” Alice began to cry desperately, tears streaming down her face. “Please, I don’t want to get married.” The words struck Isaac’s heart like sharp blades, his eyes filled with tears.

“Miss, I’m so sorry, but I don’t have a choice,” he mumbled in an embarrassed voice. He took a deep breath, trying to find the strength to maintain his posture. “Perhaps the great Shik Omar has a good reason for insisting on this marriage. I can’t disobey his orders. Ignoring her please, with pain in his heart, he took a firm hold of Alice’s arm and began to lead her back to the castle.

The girl screamed and begged, “Please don’t do this. I don’t want to get married. Please let me go.” The screams woke up her parents. Tara and Francis hurried to open the door. When they saw Isaac bringing Alice in, Tara put her hands to her head. You brat. You almost ruined everything. Francis, his face red with anger, didn’t think twice. He approached and for the first time in his life, slapped the girl hard across the face.

You ungrateful girl. We’ve sacrificed everything for you. Don’t you run away from your obligations. Alice was crying non-stop. I just want to live my life. Enough, ordered Tara. You’re getting married to the chic and that’s final. Over the next few days, the surveillance of Alice became relentless. Francis and Tara took turns sleeping, making sure their daughter had no chance of running away again.

During the day, they stayed close to her. Sometimes they were harsh and threatening. Other times they pretended to be loving parents. Everything we do is for your own good, said Tara. One day you’ll understand. We want to see you happy like a real princess, Francis emphasized. Alice, however, no longer believed her parents’ words.

It was clear to her that in their eyes, she was nothing more than a bargaining chip. Time passed and finally the big wedding day arrived. Alice was dressed like a real princess. She was wearing a dazzling outfit decorated with embroidered flowers and glittering jewels. Her hair was tied up in an elegant bun, adorned with pearls. Her parents walked her down the aisle. Each step felt like an unbearable weight for the girl.

She looked around for one last chance to escape, but to no avail. Guards were spread out in every corner. There was no way out. She was trapped. When they reached the altar, Tara and Francis hugged their daughter and kissed her cheeks. Alice’s eyes were red. She tried in vain to hold back her tears.

Francis leaned over and whispered, “Just say yes at the right moment and then keep your mouth shut.” Tara on the other side also whispered, “Smile, look happy, and do not screw this up.” Then the two of them walked away, leaving her in front of Shik Omar. Omar held out his hand to Alice. She hesitated, but eventually took it. The touch of the man’s wrinkled hands caused her to shiver.

Despite her inner strength, a silent tear escaped. Omar, noticing her distress, leaned over and asked, “What’s wrong?” Alice quickly wiped her face. “Nothing. I’m fine.” Omar, however, looked at her with a different gleam in his eye. Without his usual frown, he insisted, “Are you sure? Did something happen?” The young girl looked around. Her eyes met those of her parents.

They both shook their heads in denial, signaling that she should remain silent and just do what was told. But at that moment, the chic said, “You can trust me.” Alice felt a sincerity that she hadn’t seen in the eyes of an adult for a long time. Gathering her strength, she decided to go against her parents. “I’m sorry, sir, but I don’t want to marry you.” At that moment, Omar stood up, smiling.

Well, if the young girl doesn’t want to get married, then there won’t be a wedding,” he declared calmly. From that moment on, Isaac, at the Shik’s command, began to translate everything so that both the girl’s parents would understand what he was saying, and so that he would understand what Alice’s parents were saying. Francis and Tara were shocked to hear the chic’s words. Francis was the first to react.

She doesn’t know what she’s saying, your majesty. There will be a wedding. We’re the parents and we authorized it. Tara quickly agreed. That’s right. We authorized it. You, Majesty, don’t listen to what Alice is saying. She’ll make a great wife. She’s just nervous. She’s not used to a ceremony as beautiful as this. It’s just excitement. She will marry you.

Omar, however, kept his expression firm and said, “I’m an honest man. If the girl says she doesn’t want to get married and I say there won’t be a wedding, then there won’t be a wedding. Alice’s eyes began to shine. At that moment, she began to see Omar differently. Before she had seen him as a tyrant.

Now she saw him as a kind old man. Omar continued, “Actually, I never wanted to marry Miss Alice. It was all just a plan to lure Tara and Francis here. I wanted to be finally united with my only living blood tie. He placed his hand gently on Alice’s head. My granddaughter, Alice. A heavy silence filled the room. Everyone seemed confused.

Francis said, surprised, “Granddaughter? She can’t be your granddaughter. She’s our daughter.” Omar shook his head and replied calmly, “She can, and she is.” Then he began to tell his story. I’ve always been strict about my religion. I got married, built an empire, and had a daughter. Everything seemed perfect. But my daughter got involved with a commoner. I was against that relationship. I wanted someone from the upper class for her, a great man.

I tried to prevent that wedding in every way, but the more I tried to keep them apart, the more they got together. Omar paused, his hands tightening on the staff he carried. My daughter got pregnant, and I was furious. I threw her out of my palace even though she was pregnant. I said she was no longer part of the family.

My wife begged me to reconsider, but I didn’t listen. He sighed, his voice breaking. I only realized the mistake I’d made when my wife fell ill with grief. She died asking to see our daughter again. Even though I tried to find her, I couldn’t. Because of that, I’ve become a bitter man, full of sadness and loneliness. Omar looked at Alice with tenderness.

But a few months ago, that sadness began to dissipate. After years of investigation, I discovered what had happened to my daughter. She moved to another country with her lover, Brazil, where they started a new life. But the happiness was short-lived as they had a car accident and passed away. A murmur of astonishment went through the crowd of guests. When I got the news, I fell to my knees and cried bitterly. I thought all was lost.

But then there was hope. The baby my daughter was expecting had survived. It was a little girl. It was you, Alice. Alice’s eyes widened and Tara and Francis turned pale. I carried on with the investigation, Omar continued. I found out that there was another car involved in the accident. Your car, Francis and Tara.

You are not Alice’s biological parents. You stole her after seeing that her real parents had died. You raised her with the sole intention of one day making money out of her. Terra started babbling, trying to deny it, but the words wouldn’t come out. Francis clenched his fists, his face turning red. That’s a lie. It’s a lie.

But Alice didn’t need any more confirmation. The pieces of the puzzle were finally falling into place in her mind. She had been deceived all her life. Francis and Tara stammering said that it was a lie that the girl was their daughter. Yes. But it was at that moment that Shik Omar lifted his tunic and showed his own foot.

There was a distinctive birthark, a mark that only people from the royal family had. Alice, perplexed, looked down at her feet. There it was, the same mark that she had always thought was just an unimportant sign. It all began to make sense. That was why the chic wanted to see the feet of his suitors.

He wasn’t looking for a wife. He was looking for his granddaughter. Even so, Francis and Terra continued to vehemently deny it. It’s a lie. That mark doesn’t prove anything, shouted Francis. It was then that Omar ordered Isaac to take a folder from beside him. Inside was irrefutable proof, a DNA test.

The chic explained that he had kept Alice in the castle during those days. precisely to carry out the test, making sure there were no doubts. “Everything was planned from the start,” Omar declared firmly. “I was the one who bought the house from you through your neighbor, and I was also the one who put the story on the internet about the shake looking for a bride. I knew that was the only way I could lure you here.

” Omar’s words cut through the silence. Tara and Francis began to stir, realizing that they had been deceived. There was no denying it, and their masks fell for good. Their once concerned and faintedly loving countenances became hard and greedy. “Very well,” said Francis Culie, “if she’s your granddaughter, and you want to keep her, so be it. But give us the promised dowy.

We raised this brat for years. We deserve something for that. Tara agreed. That’s it. Keep that disgusting girl. But we demand what is rightfully ours. Alice was horrified. All her life she had believed in the love of those she called parents. Now she saw the naked truth. She had never been their daughter. Just an object waiting for the right moment to be used.

Omar, with a firm gaze full of disappointment, ordered Isaac to bring two small trunks. He handed one to Francis and the other to Tara. Here you are, and now get lost. Don’t you ever dare show your faces again in this kingdom or you’ll regret it. Inside each chest were some gold bars.

Francis and Tara’s eyes immediately lit up. Greedy, they took the chests without even looking at Alice one last time and hurried out of the castle. A few months later, it emerged that the two had lost their entire fortune in gambling. They returned to the misery they should never have left. Back in the castle garden, Omar took a deep breath.

He turned to Alice now with a look of pure tenderness. This party won’t be a wedding, but a celebration. a celebration of being reunited with my granddaughter. I beg your forgiveness, my child, for everything you’ve been through and for me being responsible for this situation. I did what I thought was necessary to bring you back.

He knelt down in front of her, an unexpected gesture for a man of his position. I’d like to ask you something. Allow me to raise you. I promise to be different from what I was with your mother. I want to do everything right this time.

Will you be my granddaughter, my princess? Alice’s tears streamed down her face. For the first time, they weren’t tears of fear or sadness, but of relief and hope. Yes, I will, Grandpa. The hall erupted in applause. The guests, once eager for a wedding, were now witnessing the birth of a new story. In the months and years that followed, Alice lived alongside her grandfather. Over time, she healed the hurts in Omar’s heart.

He, who had once been a hard and lonely man, knew the happiness he had never experienced. Alice was educated at the best schools, learned about her grandfather’s business, and became a wise and compassionate leader. She started a family business and commanded the great fortune of Arabia.

But most importantly, she was able to live her youth with freedom and joy. And as an adult, she was free to choose who to love and build her own family. She grew up without pressure, surrounded by true love. And so, a girl who had once been treated as a bargaining chip became a real princess. Comment Princess Alice to let us know you’ve made it to the end of the video.

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