Читать книгу Veronika - - Страница 4

After that first meeting by the brook, Friedrich and Veronika began to secretly see each other often. The young count seemed captivated by this simple yet incredibly beautiful girl, so unlike the noble ladies he had previously encountered. In her company, he felt free, as if shedding the shackles of his high birth.

Veronika, on the other hand, was initially wary of Friedrich’s courtship. The difference in their social status seemed insurmountable to her, and she feared that such a relationship would bring her nothing but trouble.

«My lord, we cannot continue these meetings,» Veronika said with sadness during one of their clandestine encounters in the shaded grove. «You are a count, and I am but a poor peasant. Our paths can never cross.»

Friedrich tenderly touched her cheek, gazing into the girl’s deep eyes.

«Veronika, do you not understand? To me, you are not just a peasant, but the most beautiful woman I have ever met. I am willing to renounce everything just to be with you.»

«But your father, Count Hermann, will never approve of our union,» Veronika objected anxiously. «He surely wants you to marry a noblewoman.»

«Let my father do as he wishes,» Friedrich replied confidently. «My heart belongs to you, and I will not trade you for any titles or riches. You will become my wife, Veronika, I swear it.»

These words brought a touching smile to the girl’s face. She still could not believe what was happening, but trustingly leaned into Friedrich, feeling his strong arms securely embracing her.

Gradually, with each new secret meeting, the wall of suspicion and prejudice that had seemed insurmountable began to crumble. Their feelings grew stronger, reinforced by mutual understanding and trust. Friedrich and Veronika were ready to defy the whole world, just to be together.