Aria faces intense pressure from Lucius, her vampire fiancé Julian's father, to accept a forced marriage that will cover her mother's mounting medical debts. Despite her fierce refusals and disgust at being treated like a pawn, Lucius coldly insists the wedding is non-negotiable and threatens her family's well-being if she resists. At the wedding dress fitting, Aria is bullied and insulted by Vanessa, who exposes the family's disgrace and mocks Aria’s value. Lucius warns Aria that he can destroy the wedding and cut off funds, leaving her mother’s life at stake. Aria must decide whether to submit or face devastating consequences.