All Kinds of Wrong

Chapter 4

As the car pulled away from the curb, Stacey gazed out the window, watching her childhood home recede into the distance. She felt a mix of emotions: relief, anxiety, and uncertainty.

What would her new life be like with a stranger? Was she making the right choice? Deep down she wished her father was still alive to stroke her head and tell her it was okay, only if she didn’t touch the f*****g steering wheel…. Only if she…..

The driver's voice broke into her thoughts. "Miss, Mr. Henderson has instructed me to take you to his estate. You'll be staying there for the duration of your... arrangement."

Stacey nodded, her mind racing with questions. What would the estate be like? Would she have her own space? It's just a fake marriage, they wouldn't need to be in the same room.

The car made its way through the city, eventually leaving the bustling streets behind. Stacey caught glimpses of rolling hills, manicured lawns, and opulent mansions. They were heading into the wealthy enclave, where the elite resided.

After a while, the car turned onto a private driveway, revealing a stunning mansion. Stacey's eyes widened as the car pulled up to the entrance. This was his home? It was breathtaking.

The driver opened the door, and Stacey stepped out, her eyes fixed on the mansion's grand facade. A butler appeared, greeting her with a bow.

"Welcome, Miss Jones. Mr. Henderson awaits you inside."

Stacey's heart skipped a beat. As she entered the mansion, Stacey was struck by the opulence that surrounded her. The butler led her through the corridors, adorned with artworks, to a door that swung open with a soft creak. Stacey stepped inside, finding herself in a spacious study with a beautiful view of the gardens.

Tyrrell stood by the window, his back to her, sipping a glass of whiskey. He turned as she entered, his eyes narrowing slightly as he took in her appearance.

"Ah, Stacey. Welcome to my home.”

Stacey nodded, feeling a little awestruck. "Yes, thank you. Your home is... incredible."

Tyrrell smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I'm glad you approve. Please, make yourself at home. You'll be staying in the east wing, adjacent to my quarters."

The butler reappeared, carrying a small tray with a glass of wine and a folder. "Mr. Henderson, I've brought the contract and a refreshment for Miss Jones."

Tyrrell took the folder, his eyes scanning the contents before handing it to Stacey.

"Our agreement, as discussed. Please, review it and sign at your leisure time."

Stacey took the folder, her mind racing. She was really doing this – marrying a stranger, living in his mansion, and pretending to be in love. The thought sent a shiver down her spine.

"I will.” She finally managed to say

Tyrrell nodded. "I'll give you some time to review the contract. We'll be having dinner at my parent's. A dress and everything you need will be prepared. Be ready by 6."

"Miss Jones, I'll show you to your quarters. Please, follow me." The butler said

Stacey trailed behind him, her eyes taking in the decorations and lavish furnishings. She felt like she was living in a dream, a fairy tale where she was the reluctant princess.

As they reached her quarters, Stacey gasped in wonder. The room was stunning, with a massive bed, a sitting area, and a balcony overlooking the gardens.

"This is your room, Miss Jones. I'm Edward and if there's anything you need, please let me know."

Stacey smiled. "Thank you, that's very kind of you."

As the butler left, Stacey opened the folder and began to read the contract. Her eyes widened as she scanned the pages. She held on to the pen tightly, unsure if she was ready to sign it. She sighed and dropped the file, she didn't have the mind to, not yet.

Stacey heard a knock on her room door, and a lady entered, introducing herself as Mrs. White, her personal assistant for the evening.

"I'm here to help you get ready for the dinner, Miss Jones." she said with a warm smile.

Mrs. White escorted Stacey to the walk-in closet, where a stunning array of evening gowns awaited.

"Pick any dress you like, Miss Jones." she said, her eyes sparkling.

Stacey's eyes widened as she scanned the racks, finally settling on a black evening gown that hugged her curves in all the right places. Mrs. White helped her into the dress, and then styled her hair in loose waves, applying a subtle makeup look that enhanced Stacey's natural features.

To complete the look, Mrs. White presented Stacey with a pair of black stiletto heels, a diamond necklace, and a small, beaded clutch purse. Stacey felt like a princess as she gazed at her reflection in the mirror.

When Mrs. White was finished, she escorted Stacey to the living room, where Tyrrell was already waiting, his eyes fixed on his phone. Stacey cleared her throat to announce her presence, and when he looked up, he was awestruck by her beauty for a full minute, his eyes roaming over her face and body.

But then, he quickly regained himself, his expression returning to its usual calm mask. Stacey felt a pang of disappointment; did she look that bad? She had expected at least a compliment, but Tyrrell simply offered his arm and led her outside to the waiting car.

As they arrived at the Henderson's mansion, Stacey's eyes widened in awe at the grandeur of the estate. The car pulled up to the entrance, and Tyrrell helped her out, offering his arm once more. She felt her tummy rumble when his hands touched hers and sparks flew into her heart, but as she looked at him to see if he felt it too, he looked away immediately.

They walked towards the front door, which swung open to reveal Chloe, Tyrrell's mother, beaming with warmth.

"Sophieee, darling! Welcome to our home!" she exclaimed, enveloping Stacey in a warm embrace.

Logan, Tyrrell's father, stood behind Chloe, his expression stoic and unreadable. He nodded curtly at Stacey, his eyes lingering on her for a moment before returning to his neutral gaze.

“I'm so thrilled to finally meet you officially. I didn't get the chance to speak with you because of everyone present." Chloe said

“It's lovely to meet you too, Mrs. Henderson" she replied, trying to sound confident.

Chloe held her at arm's length, her eyes scanning Stacey's face.

"I can see why my son has fallen for you. You're absolutely charming."

Stacey's cheeks flushed, and she glanced at Tyrrell, who was watching the exchange with an unreadable expression.

"And please, call me mom. We're going to be family, after all." Chloe said, leading them to the dining area, where a sumptuous feast was laid out before them. The table was set with fine china, crystal glasses, and a dazzling array of silverware. Stacey felt a little overwhelmed, but Chloe's warm smile put her at ease.

As they sat down, Chloe continued

"I must say, I'm thrilled Tyrrell is finally settling down. He's been far too focused on his business for far too long. People were even calling him homosexual. How dare they?"

Tyrrell raised an eyebrow, but Chloe just patted his hand.

"I know, dear, you think I'm meddling, but a mother wants to see her child happy.”

Logan turned his attention to Stacey, his gaze piercing as he asked "So, Sophie, I know you do love our son, so what’s your goal here?"

Stacey felt her chest fall, how was she supposed to answer that

“Dad, let her eat in peace” Tyrell said his eyes fixed on his father’s angrily.

Chloe intervened, placing a gentle hand on Logan's arm. "Logan, dear, let's not interrogate Stacey just yet. We're still getting to know her."

Logan's expression softened slightly, but his eyes still lingered on Stacey, as if sizing her up.

"I apologize if I came across as harsh, Stacey. As a father, I only want the best for my son, and I want to ensure he's with someone who truly cares for him. I don't want him to fall into the wrong hands."

Stacey nodded understandingly, feeling a pang of guilt for deceiving him.

"I understand, Mr. Henderson. I assure you, I truly love Tyrrell. I'm not after his money or status. I care for him deeply, and I want to make him happy."

Logan's eyes searched hers as if seeking the truth. Stacey held his gaze, trying to convey sincerity. She felt weird lying to his parents, but she had no choice. She was trapped in this arrangement, and she had to see it through.

Chloe, sensing the tension had dissipated, chimed in, "We just want Tyrrell to be happy, dear. And if you're the one to make him happy, then we welcome you with open arms."

"Thank you, Mother. Father. I appreciate your concern, but I can take care of myself. And I know Stacey feels the same way about me as I do about her." Tyrrell said

Stacey forced a smile, feeling like an actress playing a role. She really hoped she could keep up this charade until the end of their arrangement.

"So, when are you two lovebirds going to tie the knot?" Chloe suddenly asked

Stacey's eyes widened in shock, and she choked on her food, starting to cough violently. Chloe quickly passed her a glass of water, concern visible on her face.

"Oh dear, are you okay?"

Stacey finally managed to stop coughing, her face flushed with embarrassment.

"I'm fine, thank you," she replied, her voice shaky.

Chloe smiled, seemingly oblivious to Stacey's distress. "Good, good. Because I've already started telling people about your upcoming marriage, and we need to make it official soon."

Tyrrell spoke up. "Mother, we want to take things slow. We've only been dating for a few months."

But Chloe refused to listen. "Nonsense, nonsense. You're not getting any younger, Tyrrell. And Stacey needs to settle down. You'll be getting married next month."

Stacey could feel herself fall through the ground, next month, was she really getting married to a stranger?

But the money wasn’t something she could ignore

She needed the money

But was it worth it?

Dad if you’re up there please help, she screamed internally...