Chapter Two
1308 Words
One Month Later
Have you ever had to swallow your words and go against your will? I certainly have.
After the heated argument in the dining room and my father’s threat to disown me, I had no choice but to give in.
And now, here I am, getting dressed, about to marry someone I barely know—a decision I’m certain will haunt me for the rest of my life.
The most frustrating part? I’ve never even met the groom. Sure, I’ve seen him on TV and social media. He’s popular, wealthy, and undeniably handsome.
But none of that matters. I don’t love him, nor do I care about him. My parents won’t even tell me why they are so desperate for me to marry this man.
It feels like they’re hiding something—something big. If I ever find out the truth, maybe I can negotiate with my soon-to-be husband and get out of this marriage.
"Beatrice, the designers are here," Rebecca’s voice pulled me out of my thoughts. She stood by the door, a soft smile on her face.
"Oh my! I know this must feel like a shock to you, Beatrice," she said, stepping into the room. "But trust me, everything will be fine. Dad always wants the best for us."
I gave her a small nod, though her words didn’t provide any comfort.
The makeup artist came in first. She worked her magic, and when I looked in the mirror, I could barely recognize myself.
Next was the hairstylist. She combed my hair into a neat bun, decorating it with white pearls and pins, adding a touch of elegance.
Finally, the designer walked in carrying my wedding dress. I couldn’t deny how stunning it was.
I slipped into the off-shoulder gown, the intricate lace and flowing fabric hugging me perfectly.
"You look breathtaking, sis," Rebecca gasped, her eyes wide with admiration. I forced a smile.
Mum entered the room, her face lighting up as she saw me. She held a pearl necklace in her hands.
"Let me put this on," she said softly, fastening it around my neck.
"Let’s go," she added, taking a deep breath. "The driver is waiting, and your husband is already at the altar."
The ride to the church was short. As I stepped out of the car, my father was already waiting for me.
"Do me the honor of walking you to the altar, honey," he said, extending his arm.
I hesitated for a moment but placed my hand on his.
"I made Clifford promise he’d take care of you," he whispered as we started walking down the aisle. "Don’t panic, Beatrice. You’re doing the right thing."
I could see Clifford, my husband dressed in a white tux as his face held no expression. I finally got to the altar and my father left me and now I was facing the most intimidating man in my entire life.
His face was hard as stone like it couldn't break into a smile and I swallowed my saliva.
"We are all gathered to witness the holy matrimony of Clifford Rowen Dunes and Beatrice Lily Jones" The priest began.
"Before the church and God may the couples declare their intentions to enter this holy matrimony" and it was time to say our vows.
"I Clifford Rowen Dunes take you, Beatrice Lily Jones to be my wife, to love and cherish you. I promise to be faithful in sickness and in health and care for you all the days of my life" His voice were so cold as he declared his vows.
"I, Beatrice Lily Jones take you, Clifford Rowen Dunes to be my husband, to love and cherish you. I promise to be faithful in sickness and in health and care for you all the days of my life" I repeat after him but within me , I knew I just lied.
There was no way I would ever love this man, let alone promise to love him for all the days of my life.
"I declare you man and wife in the name of the father, son and holy spirit. You may now exchange rings and kiss your bride"
The ring bearer came forward and Clifford took my hands before slipping the ring in. I did the same for him.
And it was time to kiss the bride. I stepped forward breathing in and out steadily as he lifted my veil and then his lips landed on mine.
I couldn't focus on any other thing as he savaged my mouth nibbling and sucking on my bottom lips. Just as I responded, he pulled away and then the crowd began clapping.
I was now officially married.
He grabbed my delicate hands and began walking outside while everyone cheered for us.
I didn't know whether to be happy or sad cause I just got married or that the supposed husband hasn't smiled or showed any emotion.
As we left the church, a black rolls Royce was waiting and then a bodyguard opened the door for me to enter and Clifford also did the same.
The driver roared the engine to life and drove out of the church and I didn't get a chance to tell my parents goodbye.
"I promised your father that I would take good care of you but that depends on how well you behave. Here is a list of all the things you need to know and if you go against any of the things written there, it attracts punishment"
This is the first time he's saying a word to me and it's just to command me on how to behave.
I rolled my eyes. Could this day just get any worse.
I opened the piece of paper he left on my laps and then read through it.
*You're not allowed to leave this house without my permission*
I scoffed at that. What does he takes me for, a baby . I continued reading.
*You're not allowed to enter my bedroom or take any of my personal stuff*
I smiled. This means we are sleeping separately. That's a bonus.
*You're not allowed to work and your curfew is 6pm if you ever go out*
Huh!
"Hey what the hell do you mean by curfew? I'm not a baby okay so you can't tell me what and what not to do" I said and then I crumpled the paper in my hands.
"To hell with you and your rules" I threw the paper at his face but he didn't flinch the slightest.
Hmph! The rest of the ride was silent and finally we got to his mansion. I didn't even wait for anyone cause I came down from the car marching into the house with my dress in my hands.
"Welcome Madam I'm Tilley please let me show you to your room" A young lady that looked like my age said and she seemed nice.
I followed her to wherever she was taking me.
As soon as I got to my room, I got rid of the wedding dress and then I showered and saw some few clothes in the closet. I took a shirt and shorts and put them off.
I fell on the bed and exhaled loudly, the moment I closed my eyes, a knock sounded on the door .
"Come in." A maid popped her head in before fully entering.
"I'm sorry to disturb you, Madam, but your husband wants you in his room," she said. I huffed.
I thought he said he didn’t want anything to do with me. Or is he thinking about the wedding night?
Nope. There’s no way I’m going to sleep with that cold-hearted guy.
I looked up at the maid and boldly said,
"Tell him I’m not interested in coming to his room and don’t want anything to do with him."
- Writer
