In a union born of obligation, Brittany and Ethan are forced to confront their initial disdain for each other. Their arranged marriage, a product of their parents' lifelong friendship, seems destined for disaster from the start. However, as they spend more time together, they begin to uncover the hidden facets of each other's personalities, and a tentative attraction blossoms. But just as they start to surrender to their feelings, the weight of their families' secrets and lies threatens to tear them apart. Long-buried tensions and past conflicts resurface, casting a dark shadow over their budding relationship. The fragile bond between Brittany and Ethan is stretched to the breaking point as they struggle to reconcile their own desires with the expectations placed upon them. Will they find a way to overcome the secrets and lies that surround them, or will the crushing pressure of their families' past mistakes forever hold them back?. Can they transform their duty-bound marriage into a love match, or will the conflicts that arise from their families' tensions ultimately destroy their chance at happiness?.
Chapter 1 The wedding
The grand ballroom of the luxurious Majestic Hotel was a sight to behold. Crystal Chandeliers, their facets glinting like diamonds,hung from the ceiling, casting a kaleidoscope of colours across the room. Lavish drapery,in a rich ivory hue, adorned the walls, and intricate floral arrangements, featuring rare and exotic blooms, decorated the tables.
The atmosphere was opulent,yet tense. Brittany, resplendent in a lace gown that seemed to shimmer in the light,stood at the altar,her eyes fixed on the floor. Her hair,a rich chestnut hue,cascaded down her back like a waterfall, and her makeup was flawless, accentuating her porcelain skin. Ethan, dashing in a black tuxedo, stood beside her, his jaw clenched and his dark blue eyes narrowed resentfully under his brows.
Their parents, beaming with pride,sat in the front row, unaware of the unease between their children. They had been the brain behind this ARRANGED MARRIAGE,as Brittany had always called it. They hadn't thought about the aftermath of everything, they hadn't for once stop to think about their feelings,her outraged mind cried.
Gregory, Ethan's best friend watched with a somber expression. He had been his childhood friend and their bond waxed stronger as they grew. He knew his friend was not ready for marriage but there was nothing he could do to salvage him from the situation he found himself.
Dora watched with a mixture of excitement and concern. She was Brittany's maid of honor and was her personal assistant in her office. They shared secrets and soon became best of friends.
The priest chants, the ritual unfold, and they exchange vows. But Brittany's heart isn't in it. She's going through the motions, trapped in a union that feels like a prison sentence.
As they exchange the sacred garland, Ethan's fingers brush against hers. It's a fleeting touch, but it sends a shiver down her spine. She feels a sense of dread,a sense of uncertainty. What does the future hold for them?
The reception that followed was a lavish affair, with champagne flowing like water, and a live band playing a selection of classical and contemporary music. The guests,a mix of friends, family, and acquaintances,mingled and chatted, their faces a blur of smiles and polite conversation.
Brittany and Ethan barely spoke, their communications limited to forced smiles and fake laughters. They danced a waltz, their movements stiff and awkward, their eyes fixed on some point beyond the crowd.
As the ceremony ends, their parents embrace them, beaming with pride.
"Congratulations, Brittany!" Brittany's mother exclaims, tears in her eyes. "You're now part of an amazing family".
Ethan's father claps him on the back ."My son, you've made me proud. Brittany, welcome to our family".
Brittany forced a smile, feeling like a puppet on strings. They took photos, exchanged gifts and went through the motions of a wedding celebration. But Brittany's heart was heavy,her mind racing with thoughts of rebellion. Ethan's heart seemed to bore into hers with contempt. Brittany glared back,her anger simmering.
The limousine ride to Ethan's house was a silent one. Brittany stared out the window,her mind a million miles away, while Ethan fidgeted with his tie. As they turned into the driveway, Brittany's heart sank. The building was grand and imposing,a testament to Ethan's wealth and status.
The limousine stopped in front of the house, and Ethan got out and mounted the stairs. The first thing Brittany noticed as she got down was the garden. The meticulously manicured lawn, with each blade of grass precision-cut to create a velvety expanse of emerald green.
Roses of every hue - from soft pastel shades to bold and bright - bloomed in perfect harmony, their delicate petals swaying gently in the breeze. Sunflowers towered above, while delicate orchids and exotic blooms added an extra layer of sophistication. Ethan's love for flowers and beauty was evident in every detail, creating a truly breathtaking oasis that was a joy to behold.
As she entered the house, Brittany was struck by its opulence. The foyer was marble-tiled with a chandelier that seemed to sparkle like diamonds. The walls were adorned with intricate frescoes, and the floor was covered with a plush Persian rug.
Amanda, the housekeeper, stood discreetly to the side,her eyes fixed on Brittany with a mixture of curiosity and concern. She was a middle-aged woman, with a kind face and warm smile
"Welcome,Mrs Brittany",she said,her voice low and soothing."I hope you'll be happy here".
Brittany forced a smile, her heart sinking."Thanks...... Brittany is fine".
Amanda led her to the living room , which was equally impressive. The walls were designed with expensive artwork, and the furniture was designer-made. Ethan was seated,his eyes fixed on the coffee table. It was made of polished mahogany, and it seemed to shine in the light.
Amanda brought in a tray of refreshments, including champagne and canapes. Brittany declined,her stomach churning with anxiety. Ethan poured himself a glass of champagne, his eyes fixed on Brittany."So Brittany",he said, his voice cold and detached."Amanda will show you the guest room. I've had it prepared for you".
Brittany smiled,a hint of satisfaction in her eyes."I expected as much, Ethan. I know you didn't want me in your bed".
Ethan raised an eyebrow, taken aback by her calm demeanor "You expected it?"
Brittany nodded,her smile growing wider."Yes,I did. I know we're not meant to be together, Ethan".
"Get this straight", Ethan frowned"I know we're married, Brittany. But let's be real, it's just a facade. A show for our families and friends. I don't love you, and I never will".
"Same here", Brittany retorted."I only married you to please my family, and to secure the business deal between our parents. You're nothing to me, Ethan".
As she walked towards the guest room, she turned back to Ethan and smiled again,a smile that sent shivers down his spine."Don't worry, Ethan. I'll make sure to put on a good show for our families and friends".
With that, she walked into the guest room, leaving Ethan alone in the living room, wondering what she had just unleashed.
Chapter 1 The wedding
02/09/2024
Chapter 2 A prison of luxury
02/09/2024
Chapter 3 A good friend
02/09/2024
Chapter 4 Work or wife
02/09/2024
Chapter 5 The bodyguards
02/09/2024
Chapter 6 His secretary
02/09/2024
Chapter 7 Bistro Bliss
02/09/2024
Chapter 8 The confrontation
02/09/2024
Chapter 9 Love in shambles
02/09/2024
Chapter 10 A warning cough
02/09/2024
Chapter 11 The change
03/09/2024
Chapter 12 Unwanted guest
03/09/2024
Chapter 13 Missing daddy
05/09/2024
Chapter 14 Mysterious stranger
05/09/2024
Chapter 15 Mother's advice
05/09/2024
Chapter 16 I'm your wife
05/09/2024
Chapter 17 Trouble again
05/09/2024
Chapter 18 A new worker
05/09/2024
Chapter 19 Break up
05/09/2024
Chapter 20 Reflection
05/09/2024
Chapter 21 Like father, like son
05/09/2024
Chapter 22 Only Ethan
05/09/2024
Chapter 23 Ethan is sick
05/09/2024
Chapter 24 Brittany is worried
05/09/2024
Chapter 25 The anonymous person
05/09/2024
Chapter 26 The date
05/09/2024
Chapter 27 Who called Gregory
05/09/2024
Chapter 28 Ignored again
05/09/2024
Chapter 29 Mother's advice
05/09/2024
Chapter 30 Welcome party
05/09/2024
Chapter 31 Quarrel continues
05/09/2024
Chapter 32 In love
05/09/2024
Chapter 33 The visitor
05/09/2024
Chapter 34 Is this love
05/09/2024
Chapter 35 In my heart
05/09/2024
Chapter 36 Our friends
05/09/2024
Chapter 37 Sleeping Beauty
06/09/2024
Chapter 38 I must revenge
06/09/2024
Chapter 39 He's my man
06/09/2024
Chapter 40 Who's she
06/09/2024