#You thought stolas being repressed and depressed was something? Andre's worse-

[a-hell-of-a-time-archive]

"You do control your own life, Andre. No one else does. How you choose to live it is up to you."

The words came to him as he stared at the half empty bottle of wine atop his desk. It was easy for Vassago to say such a thing; he was a prince with a title, power and privilege that far exceeded his own. He was, in Andrealphus's mind, given more leeway and freedom from his own than the marquis's own parents ever afforded him. The same was true for Stolas, as well.

He reached for the bottle, filling up his glass while trying to ignore the frustration and hopelessness welling up inside. Why could a prince live as he chose with little to no repercussions while he was chained by, and due to his lower status. Why could they get away with living how they want while he had to tow the line so carefully that it felt like he would break at any second.

Why couldn't he be as free as them? Why did he have to suffer the whims of his family, including the sister he still had to babysit to this day while Vassago and Stolas did not? Why were they not shackled in a similar manner, given that their titles and expectations were also greater than his?

Why was he the odd one out and expected to suffer quietly?

Why?

He downed the glass in one go before filling it up yet again. It was going to be a long night, but fortunately there were more bottles than where this one came from.