Ali M.

Dear Athena,
I have a problem that I desperately need your help with! My love life seems to be in ruins! First, let me lay out the basics. My dear friend, Helena is head-over-heels for this nobleman, Demetrius. He swore oaths to her and all seemed to be going well for the two. I myself had fallen in love too with this sweet nobleman, Lysander. But then problems arose, for my controlling and stubborn father had already chosen a husband for me! And whom had he chosen? None other then the love of Helena’s life, Demetrius.

To make things worse as soon as Demetrius and I met he seems to have completely forgotten about dear, sweet, Helena. She admires him so, but he returns none of her affections any longer. And me? My feelings have not changed. I still wish to be only with my Lysander. I told my father that I only wish to marry Lysander and now he’s completely taken things to the extremes!

My father took Lysander, Demetrius, and I to the Duke to get the matter resolved, and the Duke gave me only three options. Since I’m supposedly my father’s “property” he’s allowed to do with me what he pleases. I am either to marry Demetrius or my father could sentence me to death. However, I could also choose a life of nunnery. But I cannot choose any of those options! I will not live without my Lysander, but I don’t know what to do! Please help.
- Forced To Choose