Bound by Fate

The Bride Who Was Never Chosen The sound of wedding bells echoed through the grand hall, but Amelia Hart felt nothing but emptiness. Everyone around her was celebrating. The guests smiled. The cameras flashed. The expensive flowers decorated every corner. But no one knew the truth. This wedding was a lie. Amelia stood in front of the mirror, staring at the white gown she had dreamed of wearing since she was a little girl. She once believed a wedding day would be the happiest moment of her life. She never imagined she would be walking down the aisle to a man who hated her. A knock came from the door. “Miss Hart, it’s time,” the wedding planner said softly. Amelia closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Five minutes ago, she had received the message that changed everything. “Ask your husband why his father killed yours.” Her hands trembled as she remembered the words. Someone knew the secret. Someone knew the truth about the night her father died. And somehow, Daniel Blackwood was connected to it. The doors opened. The music started. Amelia walked toward the man waiting at the altar. Daniel Blackwood. The most powerful businessman in the city. A man whose cold expression had made countless people fear him. His eyes met hers, but there was no love in them. Only suspicion. When Amelia reached him, Daniel leaned closer. “Remember one thing,” he whispered. “This marriage is only a contract.” Amelia looked directly into his eyes. “Good. Because I never wanted a husband who looked at me like I was his enemy.” A small change appeared on Daniel’s face. Surprise. Most people were afraid to challenge him. But Amelia wasn't. The priest continued the ceremony, but neither of them listened. They were both trapped. After the vows were exchanged, Daniel held her hand for the cameras. Everyone thought they were the perfect couple. Nobody knew they were preparing for war. Later that night, Amelia entered the luxurious mansion that would now be her home. She expected silence. Instead, she found Daniel waiting in the living room. On the table was an old photograph. Her father. Daniel’s father. Standing together. Amelia froze. “How did you get that?” she asked. Daniel picked up the photograph. “Because your father and mine were not enemies.” Her heart stopped. “Then why did they destroy each other?” Daniel stepped closer. “That's what I intend to find out.” Amelia stared at him, confused. For the first time, she saw something different in his eyes. Not hatred. Pain. Before she could answer, Daniel’s phone rang. He looked at the screen and his expression changed. “What happened?” Amelia asked. Daniel slowly turned toward her. “The person who sent me this message knows you are my wife.” He showed her the screen. One sentence appeared: “You married the daughter of the man who ruined your family. Now watch history repeat itself.” Amelia’s blood ran cold. Because at that moment, she realized one thing. This marriage was never about love. It was a trap. And someone wanted them both destroyed. To be continued