The Substitute Husband.

c's

the

lenges. As academically gifted as I was, I still faced numerous issues-primarily the relentless bullying from privileged kids who

did I know that my choice would lead to a confrontation that would change my life. Two jocks from the school had c

piercing whistle that pierced through the tension. Startled, I turned to locate the source of the sound and found my bullie

he coach benches you for the rest of the season. And if that's not intimidating enough, mayb

her lack of height. Everyone knew better than to cross her or the group of fr

red, her tone final. "I'll beat him fair and s

er from afar, even though I knew she'd never pay me any attention. Instead, I tried to capture her notice the only way I knew how-through academic excellence

*

w.

ut a curious impulse led me to check my social media, something I rarely did. To my surprise, I found my feed flooded with mentions of the "wedding of the century": the union of Daniel Ray and Alana Preston. Instantly, a mix of anger and je

ivated me. I had yearned to prove to her that I could be great, that I was worthy of her friendship. But instead, she saw me differently. Her enchanting green eyes and glossy auburn hair were etched in my mem

ness. But I possessed something invaluable-intelligence-and I was determined to wield it to transcend my circumstances. I relentlessl

usinesses and transforming their fortunes. In under three years, my management consultancy had skyrocketed to the top, leaving a trail of s

s that such clients often favored consultancies with ties to old-money families. To reach my ambitious goals, I had to become part of that elite circle

ut I was confident that an opportunity would present itself. And it did. When I met Richard Jordan, a brief conversation opened the door for me to seize the moment. I had to maintain the facade of a me

*

oft curls framing her face like a masterpiece. Her long, thick lashes brushed against those captivating olive-colored eyes, which appeared distant as she seemed lost in her thoughts. My gaze traveled further down to her exposed shoulders, a

of amusement and a touch of sarcasm. "If you think this marriage will ever be consummated, I ca

nterior. "When the time comes for us to consummate this marriage, it will be you who willingly seeks me out, begging for the best night of your life. I'd be honored to oblige, but for now, feel free to continue your ch

ke sure you pay hell for it," Alana promised, getting

't be necessary," I la

ha

you do, you'll realize how lucky you are," I patt