CHARLOTTES POV
You know those stories where the girl gets whisked off into a surprise marriage and ends up living happily ever after?
Yeah, this might not be one of them.
I was halfway through a cup of coffee and a chapter deadline when the world decided to flip itself upside down.
Charlotte, your mother and I need to talk to you. That was Barry, my charming, overly groomed stepfather, whose love for tailored suits almost equals his obsession with control.
He never needed to talk. He ordered meetings like a CEO who forgot he was also part of a family. I thought it would be about my writing again. Something about it wasnt career-worthy or profitable enough for someone with a legacy like mine. Whatever that meant. They seize every opportunity to make fun of me and my career path.
I dragged myself into the dining room and immediately regretted it.
Barry sat at the head of the table, arms crossed, a folder in front of him like he was about to present or pitch a business deal to a potential client. My mother, Dianne, perched beside him, wearing that same silk robe she always wore when she had something to hide.
I should have turned around. I should have walked out.
But I didnt, because Im polite and stupid. And apparently, the bride-to-be.
You are getting married, Barry announced.
I laughed out loud. A full-on snort. Funny.
He didnt laugh.
Neither did Mom.
My stomach dropped.
Im sorry, what? I asked again, hoping I had heard wrong. Maybe they said Youre not getting married or Youre burying someone, which honestly sounded more pleasant.
Barry opened the folder and slid it towards me. A neat, clinical contract. One glance, and my name was there, bold letters, right next to AIDEN KINGSTON.
I blinked. Is this a prank? I asked Barry, expecting an answer.
This is real, Barry said. The company is going under. We are at the edge, Charlotte. If this marriage goes through, the Kingstons will bail us out.
You mean they will own us, I snapped.
My mother reached for my hand. Hers was cold, trembling.
Sweetheart, we wouldnt do this unless we had no choice.
No choice? I pulled my hand away.
You always have a choice. Like not selling off your daughter like a cheap product. I am your only child for crying out loud.
Barry narrowed his eyes. Its for your good. The company was your fathers..
Dont, I warned. Dont bring my father into this.
His face tightened and I recognized that look. It was the same one he wore when he came into my life after my father died in a car accident. The same one he had when he married my mother barely three months later.
Ive never said it out loud, but some truths dont need words. Barry wasnt my fathers brother in any way that mattered except maybe in blood, and even that felt like a stain.
Why him? I dont even know him, I said quietly. This Aiden guy.
Youll get to know him, Barry said as if that made it any better. Hes a good and handsome man, from a good family. Their family has power, money and we are drowning in debt. This marriage is the only thing that can save Parker & Co.
But its Dads company, I shot back. Youre just. I caught myself not finishing my words: You are just the man who married my mother after my father died.
Barry leaned forward, with a calm and calculated voice. Your father left this company to me and all I am trying to do is to save whats left of it, so you should be grateful. And like I said earlier, Aiden is very powerful
Translation: Hes rich and can save your reputation, I said in sarcasm.
Neither of them responded.
I stared at the contract again, my fingers hovering above the paper like it might bite me.
You want me to just sign away my life?
No Mom whispered. We want you to survive.
There it was.
Not be happy. Not fall in love. Just survive.
And suddenly, it made sense. The hushed meetings, the growing tension. The way Barrys name had started disappearing from company headlines. It was obvious the board of directors was on his neck.
The man was drowning and hed rather throw me overboard to save himself.
What a father he was.
I stood with anger, the chair scraping against the floor.
This isnt over.
Barry didnt even flinch. It never is
I spent the rest of the day pacing my room, biting back panic. I needed to see him. I took out my phone and googled Aiden Kingston like a mad woman. Spoiler alert, he is disgustingly attractive in that dark hair, chiseled jaw, brooding way. GREAT.
What was even better? He had zero social media, zero interviews, and zero expression in the few pictures I found. A mystery wrapped in expensive suits and silence.
And he was going to be my husband.
I was twenty-two, a writer and a dreamer. Someone who cried during dog commercials and believed love should be a choice, not a transaction.
But in 48 hours, Id be engaged to a stranger whose name felt like a headline, not a future.
And deep down, I knew something was off.
Barry wanted this marriage too much.
My mother looked haunted. And the Kingstons..they didnt need us. But they wanted me.
Why?
This whole getting married is so sudden and strange. I mean who still does arranged marriage in this century?
A few minutes ago I was excited about finishing my second book and submitting it to the editors and publishers. And now I find myself in this mess.
Why does God hate me?
Why has the universe decided to punish me?
I didnt have answers to any of my questions, but I had one feeling I couldnt shake;
This marriage wasnt the end of my story, it was only the beginning.
AIDENS POV
People think being born into money makes life easier.
Oh, they are so wrong.
Money doesnt erase secrets. It just buys better ways to bury them.
I was eight when I realized my family didnt operate on the concept of love. They operated on a strategy. Every hug was calculated and every smile had an agenda.
So when my father, Adam Kingston, called me into his office and said, You are getting married I didn’t flinch.
I just asked, To whom?
Charlotte Parker, he said, pouring himself a drink from his wine shelf in his office. Barry Parkers stepdaughter and Diannes only child.
I sat down, legs crossed, watching the amber liquid swirl in his glass. I recognized the name. Who didnt? The Parkers were once one of our biggest rivals in the industry until they werent.
Didnt you bankrupt Barry? I asked calmly.
I saw the shocked expression on his face before he quickly replaced it with a smile.
I broke him, piece by piece. Years of precision. And now? Hes desperate. Perfect timing. Barry is greedy too.
I didnt respond. I knew better than to question his motives. Adam Kingston never did anything without a ten-year plan attached.
Shes a writer, he continued Pretty, smart, wasted in that house. But she has your mothers grace and your grandmothers fire.
So, you have been watching her.
He raised a brow. We all watch what matters.
I leaned back in my chair. The leather creaked beneath my weight.
And what do I get out of this? I asked.
Becoming the CEO of our company and Barrys company and most importantly A CLEAN SLATE.
Those last three words cut deeper than I expected.
Because no matter how many years passed, or how many stories my PR team covered up, Id never been able to erase her. My past. The woman I once loved. Or maybe I still love her.
Alana.
Beautiful but toxic. Broken in all ways I refused to see until it was too late.
We married young against both our families’ wishes. At first, it was passion. Then came the pregnancy and everything fell apart.
Alana said the baby ruined her. That motherhood wasnt in her plan. That the life inside her was a mistake.
She gave birth to a baby girl. My daughter.
And within minutes, she was gone. The doctors said she died from complications.
When they said Alana had passed, too, due to complications, it didnt add up.
The whole thing felt somehow.
I saw the blood, her body but deep down I knew something else was up.
And when I started digging and asking questions, my family shut it all down.
Its over, they said. Let it go
But I couldnt, I still cant.
So when my father offered me this marriage like it was a key to redemption, I didnt say yes, and I didnt say no either.
Instead, I asked the only question that mattered to me.
Does she know?
He shook his head. Shell find out like you did, eventually.
And that was the thing about arranged marriages. No one ever asks the parties involved if they want to get married.
Two days later I met Charlotte.
She walked into my fathers office like a storm dressed in soft fabrics. Tall, graceful, and visibly pissed. Her eyes scanned the room like she was ready to bolt. Like the walls themselves were a trap.
She looked at me like I was the enemy.
Good. I probably was.
Charlotte, Adam said standing from his leather chair, Meet Aiden.
Her gaze didnt waver. I didnt come here to be introduced. I came here to ask why your family thinks my life is a bargaining chip.
I tried not to smile. She had a spine and that was rare around here.
Nice to meet you too, I said.
Her eyes narrowed. Dont flatter yourself, this isnt mutual.
Shes bold, I muttered under my breath.
She heard me. Of course she did.
Adam gestured to the chairs, Sit both of you. We have much to discuss.
I sat first. Charlotte hesitated, then followed suit, like she didnt want to give us satisfaction. She crossed her arms tightly over her chest. I could almost feel the force of her dislike radiating across the table.
You dont want this, she said, turning to me.
You think I do? I asked, staring back.
She blinked like she hadnt expected that kind of response from me.
I dont know you. she continued, voice lower now. I dont love you and I wont pretend this is anything more than a transaction.
Good, then we understand each other. I said giving her a smirk.
There was a bit of silence. She shifted in her seat, visibly frustrated but under it all, I could feel something else.
Fear, Exhaustion, and Confusion.
I knew those emotions well.
Im not your enemy, Charlotte. I said quietly.
Then why do you look like an executioner?
Touch
Adam chuckled like this was entertainment. You two are perfect for each other.
We both ignored him.
I dont plan to stay married, she said finally. I will play along until my familys company is out of the mud. And after that, Im gone.
I nodded. Fine by me.
Her voice.
Her honesty.
She’s so different and I just couldn’t wrap my head around her.
The fire in her eyes reminded me of the man I used to be, before the world broke me.
She brought out some feelings I had buried inside of me over the years.
Feelings I was unsure about too.
And as she stormed out of the office like she hadnt just been handed a future she never asked for, I realized something.
This wasnt going to be a business arrangement.
It was going to be war.
And part of me, the part I thought was dead, was curious enough to see who would win.
CHARLOTTES POV
I wasnt sure what I expected when I walked into that room.
Maybe someone arrogant and cold. The type who saw women as part of a checklist. A name, a ring, and a legacy.
But Aiden Kingston wasnt what I imagined, he was worse.
He was calm.
And not the lets talk this out kind of calm. The dangerous kind. The kind that said Ive seen things you wouldnt survive.
He didnt argue or smile. He didnt try to charm me like most men would when told theyd be marrying a stranger.
Instead, he just looked at me like I was another detail in a long, exhausting list of duties.
Which pissed me off even more.
I wasnt a detail.
And I wasnt his.
Back home, I slammed the door to my room and stared at the ceiling, unsure whether I wanted to scream or cry.
I chose both
A few angry tears slipped down my cheeks, but I wiped them away before they could fully fall.
Weakness wasnt allowed here. Not in Barrys house. Not under Diannes shadow.
And for what?
A dying company?
A reputation she already ruined years ago?
The betrayal stung more than the deal itself.
Barry, I could understand. He was always about power. Always looking for the next hand to play.
But Mom?
She looked at me like she had already mourned me. Like the version of me she loved had been buried with my father. Maybe it had.
Maybe I died the day she moved on with his brother.
I rolled onto my side, grabbing my phone, instinctively opening my notes app, the only place where my voice still mattered.
> Title: The Deal.
Opening Line: She never imagined her signature would cost her soul.
Mood: Betrayed, trapped, angry.>
I stopped typing.
Because this wasnt fiction anymore.
This was my life.
The next morning, I was summoned again. No good morning, no how are you feeling? Just a cold knock and a clipped voice from Barrys assistant.
The Kingstons would like you to attend a dinner at their estate tonight at seven sharp. Its a formal dinner.
Like I was some prized puppy being trained for show.
I didnt respond. I just closed the door and stared at my closet.
Formal.
I hated that word. It usually meant stuffing myself into a dress that wasnt made for comfort and pretending I wasnt silently screaming on the inside.
But I picked a dress anyway. A navy blue, off-shoulder, sleek, and subtle. Not flashy, not soft. Just enough to remind them I wasnt easy to break.
The Kingston estate was something out of a rich persons fever dream.
Marble floors, crystal chandeliers, glass walls that reflected your thoughts before you even had them. Everything screamed money, but it was too clean. Too curated like a museum that was scared of feeling real.
Aiden was waiting when I walked in, dressed in black. Of course, he probably slept in suits.
He didnt say much, just nodded at me like we were business partners about to sign a merger.
I wanted to stab him with my heel.
Instead, I smiled.
Fake, Poised, and Perfect.
We were led into the dining room, where his father and mother waited, looking like they had stepped straight out of a royal family portrait.
Charlotte, Adam Kingston said smoothly, rising to greet me. You look stunning.
I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. Thank you, sir.
Please, call me Adam. Were family now.
The word made my stomach twist.
Dinner was a blur of silverware, small talk, and veiled warnings disguised as compliments.
So, Charlotte, his mother said, dabbing her lips with a linen napkin, What are your views on privacy? Especially once you are married?
I blinked. Im sorry?
I mean, she continued, eyes sharp and polite, Do you believe secrets should stay between husband and wife? Or do you think honesty is always best, no matter the cost?
Ah, there it was.
I glanced at Aiden, He was expressionless, staring at his plate like it held answers to questions no one dared to ask.
I think, I said carefully, that honesty is useless if the person listening is already committed to lying.
There was a pause.
Then Adam laughed. Shes smart. I like that.
Aiden still didnt speak.
When dinner ended, Aiden walked me to the car. The silence between us was thick, buzzing with everything we didnt say.
Just before I stepped in, I turned to him.
Im not your puppet, I said.
I know.
And Im not staying quiet. If I find out what this really is —
You will, he cut in, his voice low.
Eventually.
His eyes met mine, and for a second, I saw something flicker behind them. Pain? Regret? Maybe even a warning.
But then it was gone.
And he stepped back.
Goodnight Charlotte.
The door closed.
That night, I didnt write anything, I didnt cry, I didnt pace.
I just lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, wondering how many lies it would take to break a person completely.
Because something told me this marriage wasnt the beginning of a story.
It was the unraveling of one.
And I was stuck inside it.
CHARLOTTES POV
Its strange how quickly life can pivot. One day, you are arguing with your mother about a future you dont want, and the next, you are standing before a mirror in a wedding gown that doesnt feel like yours, yet somehow it oddly fits.
I always thought Id run away if forced into something like this. But here I was, not running, screaming, or fighting.
Just. accepting.
Maybe it was exhaustion. Or the way Aiden had looked at me the night we signed the marriage agreement. His eyes were quiet, guarded but not cruel. Maybe it was because deep down, I knew there was no going back.
My fathers legacy was gone. My mother had made her bed and I was the final pawn left on the board.
So I surrendered, but on my terms.
I would walk into this with my head high, even if my heart dragged behind me.
The morning of the wedding was calm. Too calm. No last-minute protests or soap opera-style objections. Just makeup artists, photographers, and my mother pretending this was every girls dream.
You look beautiful, she said, adjusting the veil on my head.
I glanced at her reflection beside mine in the mirror. Do I look like someone marrying for love?
She paused, hands frozen. You look like someone whos ready.
Ready? For what exactly? I didnt even bother to ask.
The ceremony was held at the Kingston estates garden. Grand and luxurious. The kind of wedding fairy tales had been ghostwritten by a board of directors and filled with silent stares instead of sweet nothings.
Aiden looked sharp, as always. Perfect suit, perfect posture. But his eyes.. they werent perfect. They were distant, like he was somewhere else.
Still, when he took my hand, there was a spark. A flicker of something real.
Ready? he asked under his breath.
I nodded. Lets do it.
The vows were read, rings exchanged. A kiss that was more political than passionate and then just like that, I was Mrs Charlotte Kingston.
The honeymoon was a blur. Not because it wasnt memorable, but because it felt like someone else was living it. We flew to Santorini. Aidens choice was because I didnt have a say. It was heartbreaking. Not having to get your dream wedding or honeymoon.
We had separate rooms in a villa overlooking the sea. He never imposed, never assumed. Every moment we shared was polite. careful.
But on the third night, something shifted.
We were sitting on the terrace after dinner, watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with a hundred shades of fire.
You are not what I expected. He said suddenly.
I turned to him. What did you expect?
A spoiled heiress, a reluctant bride. Someone bitter and angry.
I chuckled. Oh, I am bitter and angry. But Im learning to keep it stylish.
He smiled. A real one for the first time since I met him. It changed his entire face. It made his face lit and his eyes pop.
You surprise me too, I said.
You are less arrogant than I imagined.
He raised a brow. Is that a compliment?
Quite hard to believe it myself, but yes, its a compliment. I giggled.
The silence between us grew comfortable. We sat and just enjoyed each other’s company. And for the first time, I let myself look at him not as my husband on paper, but as a man. A complicated and guarded man with secrets behind those dark eyes. And maybe, just maybe, he wasnt the villain I portrayed him to be.
That night, we didnt kiss, nor did we cross any lines. It wasnt the usual honeymoon night where couples spend the night in each other’s arms or consummating their wedding.
But when I fell asleep, I dreamed of him.
Moving into Aidens mansion was a bit scary. Adjusting to a new environment was different for me.
When we got out of the car and entered the mansion, it was as if all the staff knew what to do. They rushed into the living room and arranged.
Aiden clears his throat slightly, his voice calm but distant.
This is Charlotte.
He paused and continued. My wife,
She will be staying here permanently. Whatever she needs, you give it to her with no questions asked or any delay.
I glanced at him but he didnt look at me.
Elsie, Cheryl, you will make sure her rooms are always in order. If she wants to change anything in the east wing, let her.
The house was too big and quiet. Aiden gave me the east wing of the mansion and said I could decorate it however I wanted.
There were two maids, Elsie and Cheryl, a middle-aged woman, Petra, who is the chef, and coordinates the house. And also lots of securities.
Elsie and Cheryl took my bags and took me to the east wing, and Aiden stayed back to give more instructions to the other staff.
Aiden stayed in the west wing. Most mornings or evenings, we ate together.
I started to notice some things about him. He always drank coffee at 6 a.m. and went to his private gym at 4 a.m. He always stopped at a particular window before leaving the house, like he was trying to remember something.
Sometimes we stare at each other and other times our hands brush over each other.
We werent in love but I guess we were trying to make it all work. I had hope.
One evening, after a long walk in the garden, I returned to my room to find a gift box on my bed wrapped in a deep green ribbon.
I opened the box and I saw a book. The Secret Garden. A book I had always loved since I was a child. And inside the box I found a note.
I remembered you mentioned this once.
Not everything about this has to be a duty.
– Aiden.
My heart gave a small flutter. It was the gift he had given to me. Not a jewelry or perfume. It was a book.
That night, I stood in front of his door for a full five minutes before I knocked. He opened the door. His shirt was unbuttoned at the top, his hair slightly tousled. He looked. softer.
I wanted to say thank you, I said.
He nodded. You are welcome.
There was a long pause. I didnt walk back to my room to avoid the weird silence. Instead, I waited and then I asked.
Do you ever think we could make this work?
He didnt answer, he just smiled.
I just walked back to my room smiling. I didnt fall in love with Aiden Kingston that night but I think its safe to assume that the door to love might be opened a little.
I hope he thinks so too.
AIDENS POV
I messed up.
Not because I said too much, but because I allowed her to see something I buried a long time ago. That moment on the stairs, the book in her hands, the softness in her eyes, it cracked something inside me.
And cracks? They are dangerous.
Because when people find the cracks, they start digging.
I have lived most of my life behind stone walls. And I built them for a reason.
The next morning, I didnt wait for breakfast.
I left early.
Charlotte had this look on her face last night like she thought something had changed between us that we were finally becoming something.
We werent.
We couldnt.
By the third day of me successfully avoiding Charlotte, she finally confronted me.
I was in the study, hunched over reports I brought home from the office. I was deep inside my work when she walked in.
Aiden. Her voice was gentle. Can we talk?
I didnt even look up. Im busy.
You have been busy for days.
I sighed. Its called work, Charlotte. You should try it sometime.
She flinched, but she kept standing there. Did I do something wrong?
I set my pen down slowly. No.
Then why are you acting as if we are strangers living together?
Im not acting, Charlotte. My voice sounded so cold. This is who I am.
Her lips parted, but no words came out of her mouth. I could see the hurt forming but she tried to hide it behind her pride.
She stepped closer to my desk. You do not get to pull me in and then shut down without an explanation. Im not a child.
I never pulled you in, I snapped raising my voice a bit.
Dont mistake one act of kindness for something deeper. It is not as deep as you might think.
You gave me a book from your childhood, she said, her voice tight.
Thats not nothing.
It was a moment of weakness. One I will make sure not to repeat ever again.
She stared at me, her eyes were sparkling like a glass of tears and it made me uncomfortable. Guilt doesnt suit me.
I thought there was hope for us, she whispered.
Oh, come on Charlotte, dont tell me you think this is some love fairy tale story that the man and woman fall in love and they live happily ever after. Let me make this clear, Theres no hope for us, so stop trying to find it. I said flatly.
Charlotte blinked rapidly, trying to prevent the tears from falling. Then she turned and walked out without saying another word to me. Not that I was expecting one.
I left the house like I was a thief because deep down I couldn’t face Charlotte after the encounter we had in my office. Why did I even decide to work from home?
I need a distraction.
I need a fix. I picked up my phone and called my friend at the club I usually visit.
Hey man, hows it going?
Aiden, my boss, Im good, its been a while. Congratulations on your wedding. Too bad I wasnt invited.
Sorry bro. I didnt know what to say to him because I wanted to brush him off.
I need you to send a girl over to the usual spot.
Okay, boss. He knew better than to question me and Im certain he wanted to ask questions.
At the bar, I didnt drink much. I just had a few glasses and I left the bar with my distraction. I got home in the evening.
Honestly, I didnt want her. I just needed to prove something to myself, and maybe to Charlotte, too.
The second we walked in, I saw Charlotte curled up on the couch in the living room with a blanket. She was reading a book peacefully. Until she saw us.
She looked at the girl holding my arm, then back at me.
She stood slowly. I see, she said softly. So this is how its going to be.
I didnt answer. She turned to the maid, Elsie, who I didnt notice was standing in the hallway.
Please make sure she gets whatever she needs, Charlotte said calmly. Shes a guest after all.
She didnt wait for a response. She grabbed her book and the blanket and walked up the stairs.
Later that night, the girl passed out drunk in the guest room. I didnt even touch her. I wanted to but I just couldnt do it.
All I could think of was Charlottes silence.
I stepped out of my room and I met Petra, the chef, trying to lock the side doors.
She glanced at me. Having a long night, sir?
I raised my eyebrow. Any problem?
No, sir. She paused. Just wondering if you are planning to keep hurting her, or if this is a one-time thing.
I stared at her. Excuse me?
She ate dinner alone, again and she barely touched her food.
I dont care, and by the way, I am not paying you to put your mouth into matters that dont concern you. She nodded and left.
The next morning, I ran into Charlotte. She was coming out of her room, holding sets of dirty bed sheets.
You dont have to do that, I said.
I live here, so I might as well clean up too, she replied calmly.
I winced. Shes just..
You dont have to explain, she cut in, her eyes were free of any emotion. Ive gotten the message loud and care, I wont expect anything from you.
Charlotte
She looked at me. You know the worst part? Its not the fling, its the fact that I let myself believe you were different.
I told you not to, I said with my voice low and deep.
You gave me hope, thats crueler than ten flings, Aiden, she said, pressing the sheets to her chest.
She walked past me, brushing my shoulder, and it lingered.
I decided not to go to the office. I stayed in my study from morning till night. The book I gave her was still on her nightstand. I saw it earlier when she left the door slightly open.
She still keeps it till now. Even after everything.
Elsie knocked lightly and peeked in.
Would you like tea, sir?
I shook my head.No.
Miss Charlotte asked for something calming. I thought maybe
Shes not sleeping?
She shook her head. She hasnt been eating much either.
I rubbed my face. Thanks.
She looked happy that day, sir. The day you gave her the book.
I stayed silent.
She thought you were opening up.
I looked away. That was a mistake.
Then why does it look like you are the one hurting now?
Before I could answer, she turned and left me alone.
And for the first time in a long time, I didnt want to be.
CHARLOTTES POV
My phone rang just after noon.
I stared at the screen. It was my mother.
I didnt want to answer.
But I did.
Hello?
Charlotte. Her voice was so oddly sweet. Its been almost two weeks since the wedding and not a single call from my only daughter?
I have been adjusting.
Adjusting? She laughed lightly. Whats there to adjust to? You married a Kingston, you should be happy and thanking me.
I stayed quiet.
She continued, How is Aiden? Hes treating you well, isnt he?
He barely talks to me.
There was a moment of silence.
Are you doing your part? she asked.
My part?
Yes, being a good wife, obedient and respectful. Men like Aiden dont want difficult women.
Difficult? I scoffed. You think Im the problem?
You need to learn how to keep your voice down, young lady; you were raised better than this.
I was raised to be silent and pretty, not to be someones doormat.
You are being dramatic.
No, Im being honest. You married me off for a business deal and expect me to smile about it?
I did what was best for you, for our family.
Yeah Mom, of course, playing the awesome and caring mother card. Note the sarcasm.
I dont know what you are talking about
No mother, you did what was best for you and Barry.
Watch your mouth, Charlotte, Im still your mother.
I stood up from the chair, pacing angrily.
No, you watch yours. Im not a child anymore and Im not going to play house with a man who treats me like Im invisible.
Then make yourself visible the right way, she snapped. Dress nicely, cook for him, lie there and smile even when he doesnt deserve it.
Im not going to crawl for him or feed his ego.
You are his wife now. You dont have a choice.
I always have a choice. Her words made me want to pull my hair out of my scalp.
Dont be ungrateful, Charlotte. Every girl would want to be in your shoes. This marriage will make you wealthy and powerful.
I dont care about power. I care about respect. Something you and Barry dont seem to understand.
She was silent for a beat.
Dont ruin this, she said coldly.
Im not the one who ruined or is going to ruin anything.
I wont sit by while you embarrass this family.
Then hang up.
Charlotte..
I ended the call. I knew I was disrespectful to her, but she doesn’t understand my plight, and she isn’t trying to understand me either.
I wish my Dad were alive. All these wouldn’t be happening to me.
I stared at the window for a while trying to wrap my head around how messed up my life is. I need a breath of fresh air.
I was heading downstairs to get some fresh air in the garden when I heard voices near the kitchen.
Cheryl and Elsie were talking to each other. I stepped on the last step, while my hands were still on the wooden handle meant for support to and from the stairs.
I cant take it anymore, Cheryl said. She walks around the house like she owns it.
Well, technically, she does own this house; shes his wife, Cheryl, Elsie replied quietly.
She doesnt love him.
Hmmmm. How do you know that? Please say what you know.
I have a feeling that marriage is forced. She doesnt love him at all.
That doesnt mean she deserves hate.
She does, Cheryl hissed. She doesnt deserve him. You have seen how she talks and behaves to him as if he were beneath her. I bet she is with him because of his money.
Elsie sighed. This isnt your business.
Cheryls voice softened. You dont understand, Elsie. I have loved him for years. Ever since I started working here. I love the way he walks, talks, and commands the room. He deserves someone who actually sees him.
And you think thats you?
Why not me? she whispered. Id worship the ground he walks on and I will never make him feel unwanted.
Cheryl
I hate her, Elsie. Every time I see her in his arms, I feel sick. She doesnt belong here.
There was a pause.
She doesnt even make his tea right, Cheryl added bitterly.
I stepped into the hallway.
Both maids froze. Most especially Cheryl.
Elsies eyes widened. Miss Charlotte—
I see, I said keeping my voice calm. So thats how you feel, Cheryl?
Cheryls mouth opened and closed like a fish gasping for air. I.. I didnt mean.
Dont lie. I heard everything. I crossed my arms. So you have been chasing after my husband?
I just I care about him.
Enough to fantasize about replacing me?
She swallowed. I just think he deserves better.
Better than me? I took a step forward. Do you know what its like waking up every day next to a man who pretends you dont exist? Being in a marriage you never asked for, in a home that doesnt feel like yours?
She said nothing.
No, you dont. I continued.
Because while you were fantasizing, I was fighting to hold myself together.
Miss Charlotte. Elsie whispered, trying to calm the tension.
But I wasnt done.
You think he wants you? I said to Cheryl. Then by all means, go stand outside his door and wait for him to notice you.
Thats not what I
Save it. Henceforth, stay out of my way. You dont speak about me, you dont serve me and you dont come near me unless I call for you, thats if I call for you. Understood?
Cheryl nodded quickly, her eyes filling with tears.
I turned to Elsie. I appreciate your honesty. Thank you.
Elsie gave a small nod. Im sorry you heard all that.
Im glad I did.
I was quite shocked by all things
Cheryl said about me. But what can I say, I don’t really know her.
And with that, I walked away.
For once, I didnt feel weak.
I felt awake.
CHARLOTTES POV
The garden was quiet, birds chirping softly in the distance. I sat with Elsie on a bamboo chair under the oak tree, sipping a cup of cold lemonade.
You have been quiet these past few days, she said.
I have had a lot on my mind.
Still thinking about what Cheryl said? Elsie pushed again, trying to make me talk.
Its not just that; the house, the silence, Him, everything.
Elsie glanced toward the mansion. He doesnt talk to you much anymore?
I looked at her and scoffed, He barely looks at me. I deserve more than cold glances.
You deserve more maam.
I dont know what I deserve anymore.
We fell silent.
Footsteps crunched on the path that led to the oak tree.
Charlotte.
I turned and saw Aiden. He stood a few feet from us in his suit, distant as always.
Yes?
Theres going to be a dinner party tomorrow.
A dinner?
Yes, to celebrate our companies coming together and our marriage.
And you are telling me this now?
You have enough time to prepare.
Why didnt you mention it earlier?
It slipped my mind.
Of course it did, I said, rolling my eyes at him.
Wear something that fits the image.
Anything else, boss?
Be ready on time.
Are you going to pretend to be my husband for once?
This isnt about us, Charlotte. Its business.
Just be ready.
He turned and walked off. I stared at his back as he slowly disappeared into the house, my hands clenched in my thighs.
Elsie whispered, Do you want me to help you prepare tomorrow?
Yes, please, I need to look awesome.
So are you going to the boutique to get new clothes?
Nope, I have lots of clothes to wear in my closet. I got them from my honeymoon trip.
Okay, maam.
Please, I want to look like someone he cant ignore.
My room was a total mess. Elsie and I couldnt figure out the dress I should wear to the party. I think I can say Elsie and I are like sisters.
After two hours, two whole hours, I finally found the dress. It was an emerald green dress that showed my figure. It had a tail and it was an off-shoulder gown. One word to describe the dress is Amazing.
I did a very simple makeup, just a few touches.
I stood at the top of the stairs. My green dress shimmered under the chandelier, hair pinned up, lips red. I saw him standing close to the door pressing his phone.
Aiden, I called out, smiling like a 16-year-old going to prom.
He turned, froze and his eyes swept over me. He looked at me from head to toe as I walked down the stairs.
But he said nothing.
Not a single word.
He turned away and walked to the car.
I swallowed the sting and followed him. Deep down, I was hurt.
The drive to the event hall took forever.
At the event hall, everything was gold and crystal.
Mr and Mrs Kingston! a host beamed.
Aiden didnt slow down.
Hi, I said quietly, trailing behind him.
We stepped inside and my stomach tightened.
Charlotte! It was my mothers voice.
Hi, Mom.
She pulled me into a hug. You look so beautiful.
Thanks, I replied bluntly.
Barry joined us. You clean up well.
Thanks, Barry. I didnt even know what he meant by that, but I just replied to him.
He gave Aiden a firm handshake. Glad we could all be here to celebrate.
Aiden nodded curtly. Likewise.
Then Adam and Eleanor appeared. Adams eyes lingered on Barry a little too long, which was quite weird.
Charlotte, my darling, Eleanor said, cool, formal, and sweet. You look radiant.
Thank you, maam. I gave her a fake smile.
Adam gave a knowing look. Enjoy the night.
Aiden leaned in. Go mingle, Ive got people to talk to.
He walked off.
I stood there, holding my clutch with my breath tight.
I moved to a quieter spot by the drinks table. I sat down and took a drink. Guests buzzed past me, but none of them stopped to chat.
Then I heard a voice behind me.
Charlotte?
I turned.
Dylan?
I thought that was you. “God, you have changed. He smiled.
In a good way, I hope.
Absolutely. Stunning doesn’t even cover it.
I smiled genuinely.
Its been years. What are you doing here?
Business, you know, gathering like this, is where you gather connections and clients.
Ah, that makes sense.
But enough about that, how are you? I heard you are married.
Well, yeah.
Hey, why the sad face?
Honestly, not great.
Talk to me.
I dont think he even sees me.
Then he is blind.
You are just being nice.
No. I remember you, you were fierce, funny, you lifted every room.
I dont feel like that person anymore.
You still are. I can see her.
I laughed, a small, breathy laugh.
There it is, that smile. God, I missed that.
Stop, Dylan. You are going to make me cry.
Then cry, I will catch every tear.
You havent changed.
Neither have you. You are just quieter now.
Marriage does that.
Well, it shouldnt. I want to know why you married him.
Just forget about that, I said, trying to hide the reason.
Dance with me. Dylan stood, stretching his hand towards me.
I cant, I said, feeling a bit scared and shy.
“Just one dance, come on, for the old days. I nodded and took his hand.
My hand was across his shoulders and his hands were on my waist. We moved to soft music. I felt his warmth and I felt relaxed.
Until the air chilled.
Charlotte.
My heart dropped.
Aiden stood a few feet away, jaw clenched, eyes cold, and if looks could kill, Dylan and I would be dead.
Aiden, we were just
Step away.
Hes just an old friend.
I dont care, Aiden shouted. Everyone was looking at us now.
Aiden, you are making a scene.
Dylan spoke calmly. Relax, we were just dancing.
Youve had your moment, leave.
No need to be rude, Aiden, Dylan said, arranging his suit.
Aiden raised his hands and punched Dylan in the face, and everyone screamed. Dylan was on the floor, blood running down from his mouth.
Aiden grabbed my wrist. Come with me.
Aiden, please you are hurting me.
He didnt listen.
We didnt speak in the car. I stared out the window. He gripped the wheel tightly.
When we arrived home, he slammed the car door, opened the front door for me to walk in, and immediately slammed the door again.
What the hell were you thinking, dancing romantically with another man?
He was just talking to me, I said, fiddling with the chain in my clutch.
Laughing? Smiling? Dancing?
I was happy for once.
With him?
Yes with him. Its not that you were around to keep me company.
You think this is some high school romance? he shouted.
I think I deserve some kindness, I shouted back.
You embarrassed me.
You ignore me every day, tonight was no different.
You forgot you are married. “Do you know what the headlines will be like?
You forgot you have a wife, and I dont care about headlines, I replied, sitting down on the couch. My feet hurt because of the five-inch heels I was wearing.
You looked like a prostitute.
Slap. Yes, I, Charlotte, slapped Aiden, a multi-billionaire, and my husband. Thats a killer headline.
Im done with you always treating me badly and ignoring me.
Good, stay out of my way.
I hate you.
Then we are even. I turned, tears burning my eyes.
Dont follow me, speak to me, look at me, or even breathe the same air as me.
Wouldnt dream of it.
I was hurt by Aidens replies.
I ran up the stairs to my room and slammed the door.
And for the first time since the wedding, I broke down completely.
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