Blackmailed into Engagement with the Billionaire CEO

together hastily, everything had to be perfect, or at least appear to be. Olivia's family had been relegated to the background, as if to avoid any suspicion about th

ooked like it was made especially for her, but in reality made her feel more alien to this day than ever. Each designer had been informed of her silhouette, of her bearing

te smiles, calculated handshakes. Nothing like what a couple should share before committing to life.

ing of unreality took hold of Olivia. She looked at the crowd, the smiling and respectful f

stood before her, as impassive as one could be. They stood side by side, but millions of miles apart. The exchange of vows had to be

itment knowingly, in strict observance of our respective duties. » The words were enunciated with military rigor, as if h

der, knowing well that this union is above all a duty, a commitment to our families and our business. » The moment ex

formality to complete. The kiss, quick and without heat, sealed everything, like a last formality before leaving the stage. The guests applauded, but deep down, no one really felt conce

stronger than ever. She had always known that this marriage would not be a love story, but she had not imagined how difficult this coldness between them wou

atures tense. He closed the door behind him abruptly, without

, Olivia. Did you think you could manipulate the situation, make

he replied, her tone feigning ignorance, but a shiver running down the back of her n

from, that I haven't been informed of the machinations behind this union? » His words were like shards of glass, sharp

what you're talking about, Alexander. You are wrong about everything. » She felt anger rising within her, but she kne

never there for us, for this union. It was a simple matter. » He took a step closer, closing the space between them.

nk I wanted that? Do you think I had a choice? I'm stuck in this trap just as much as you are. »

. "So you admit it? Are you part of this c

giving in to rage, she just responded in a firm, but low voice. " No. I am not guilty. But I'm n

y, as if searching for something he could not gra

no real relationship. » His voice became icy, almost threatening. "You

t the harshness to come. All that remained was for him to accept his fate, to accept that, in this union, there would be neither t