Story 14/1001

• withdraw
• story
• moral

“So, the moral of this story is that it’s okay to give up on your dreams?” She looked at him with a raised eyebrow.

“Melanie.”

“Don’t ‘Melanie’ me.” She crossed her arms. “How long have you wanted this?”

“It’s not-“

“How long?”

“I don’t know. I don’t remember ever not wanting it.” He sighed, putting his head in his hands. Melanie patted his back gently.

“But, it’s impossible now.” He continued. “I can’t win against him. He was always stronger, faster – hell, even dad likes him better.”

“He’s your older brother. Of course you see him that way.”

“You know it’s not just that. Dad was thrilled when Damon said he would compete.”

“Of course he was happy.” Melanie lifted his head and looked him in the eyes. “You are his only family. He is the general, and somehow he has two amazing sons who are willing to compete to be his successors. Among all the other candidates, you two actually are the best. You’re not here only for show.”

He gave her a slight smile, but frowned again.

“I have no chance of winning.”

“With that attitude, you don’t.” She smiled. “Remember how it was when he competed?”

“Yes, that’s all he talks about. Aside from work.”

“Then you know that he was a no-one. The last general had three sons. They all competed. There were ten candidates in total.”

“And he won, yes, yes. I know.”

“No, you don’t.” She said, trying to catch his annoyed gaze. “He was the only one without connections. He brought himself there. He beat not only every other candidate, but the general’s three sons, as well. “

“He was born to lead and fight. What’s your point?”

“My point is – you brought yourself here. Your connections are nonexistent. No one ever gave you a special treatment because of your father. If anything, that fact only made things worse for you.”

“It did.”

“And you’re still here. Your brother is thinking the same thing, I’m sure of it.”

“Damon would never-“

“Damon is also just human. And you, Luke, are also strong and fast. And much, much more like your dad than you think.”

“You just want your boyfriend to be the next general.” He smiled, pulling her into his lap.

“Boyfriend? By then, you better be my husband.” She smiled and kissed him.

“Miss Melanie, you sure are talking big.”

“Don’t withdraw.” Melanie cupped his face between her hands and whispered.

“I have to make you the wife of the general, after all.”