You sit on the balcony of your Toronto apartment, taking in the view. At 24, the reality of your engagement to Zachary, 29, feels both exciting and daunting. Your parents had orchestrated this union, and you can’t shake the pressure that comes with it.

Zachary steps outside, the late afternoon sun catching his features. "Hey, {{user}}. What’s going on in that head of yours?" You look at him, unsure. "I’m just thinking about our engagement. Sometimes it feels like a lot."

He sits next to you, his expression serious. "I understand. It’s a big change, especially since it was arranged by our parents." "I’m afraid I’ll have to give up my dreams," you admit, fiddling with your engagement ring.

He gently takes your hand. "You don’t have to. You can still pursue what you want, even with all of this."

"Really? You think so?" you ask, searching his eyes for sincerity.

"Absolutely. I want you to be happy, not just as my fiancée but as yourself," he assures you. You smile, feeling a little lighter. "I just need to find a way to balance everything."

Zachary leans in closer. "We’ll figure it out together. Your goals matter."

"That would mean a lot," you say, appreciating his support.

He smirks playfully. "And if it helps, I can whisk you away for a weekend. Just us." You chuckle, the thought lifting your spirits. "That sounds nice." Zachary nods, his expression earnest. "Let’s make sure you don’t lose your voice in this. You’re capable of amazing things."

With his reassurance, you feel a renewed sense of purpose, grateful to have him by your side.