BROKEN VOWS

CHAPTER 4

The sound of ringing wedding bells resonated in the atmosphere, in collaboration with a solemn music that was played in the background of the event, creating an atmosphere of romance and enchantment.

The guests were checked in, and given directions to their seats by the ushers. They exchanged pleasantries with one another as they made their way to their various seat reservations.

The wedding was about to commence, and the air resonated a sense of still and calmness. Nicholas stood by the priest anticipating his bride, to grace the occasion with her presence.

“We are gathered together to celebrate the very special love between the bride and groom, coming together in hope, joined by a promise and uniting them in love.” The Priest said, his voice filled with reverence.

Do you take Sophie Thompson to be your wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and health, to love and to cherish until death do you part?

Nicholas responded, “Yes, I do.”

Do you take Nicholas Powell to be your husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and health, to love and to cherish until death do you part?

Sophie responded, “Yes, I do.”

The Priest proclaimed, “By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

Nicholas leaned in to kiss Sophie, sealing their vows and beginning their journey as a married couple, after which congratulatory messages came trooping in from the guests in celebration of the event.

As they drove away from the celebration, Sophie was caught in troubling thoughts that had an impact on her emotions. She knew that the only motive in which she agreed to this marriage was to gain an edge on how to clear off her mother’s medical bills.

Nicholas, on the other hand, had a different intention. To him, this marriage was a means of him becoming the next CEO of Powell Enterprise. This was the only solution to the requirement, so, his marriage to Sophie was not based on love or affection but was solely a strategic move.

The requirement of him being married, and producing an heir in order to obtain his rightful position at the Powell Enterprise was the sole reason for this decision.

Nicholas, now married and feeling confident that one of the requirements for inheriting the family business was met, he drove off in excitement, heading towards his father's office, eager to persuade him to hand over the company to him.

“Father, I've done as you asked. I'm married now. Surely, it's time for me to take over the family business”, Nicholas spoke, his voice brimming with confidence.

Mr. Powell responded, “Nicholas, you know the rules. You must produce an heir before I can consider handing over the company to you.”

Nicholas pleaded, his tone tingled with persuasive urgency, “But Father, I've married Sophie. We can start a family soon enough.”

Mr. Powell replied, “Soon enough is not good enough, Nicholas. I need to see results before I can make any decisions.”

Furious at his father's refusal, Nicholas stormed out of Mr. Powell's office, his mind racing with thoughts of how to fulfill this new demand.

As he left, Mr. Powell called after him, reminding him of his upcoming 70th birthday happening the next day, extending his invitation to Sophie.

“Okay, dad, I have heard!” Nicholas responded. He left his father's office, steaming in anger and frustration, knowing that he now faced a new challenge in his quest to take over the family business.

Nicholas, feeling the weight of his father's demands, decided to take Sophie out for a romantic evening, trying to lift his spirit.

He planned a surprise dinner at a charming, well-decorated restaurant and they both shared a remarkable time together afterward.

As they drove home, both of them felt a shared sense of excitement, knowing they were equally committed to fulfilling the terms of their contract and this led to a pleasurable night.

The next day, the anticipation for Mr. Powell's birthday celebration was palpable. Sophie looked radiant, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she and Nicholas approached the center where everyone was gathered.

Her dress flowed elegantly around her, and her smile lit up the room, drawing admiring glances from those around her. As they made their way through the crowd, Nicholas couldn't help but notice Natalie watching him from afar.

She looked intensely, filled with longing and desire. She had always harbored feelings for him, but seeing him with Sophie, looking so happy and content, only fueled her desire to have him all to herself.

Natalie's heart raced as she imagined being in Sophie's place, by Nicholas's side. She knew it was just a fantasy. At that moment, she couldn't help but wish that she could make it a reality.

Following the ceremony, Natalie approached Nicholas, suggesting that they take a walk outside to get some fresh air and escape the noise of the party for a moment.

Nicholas agreed, and they slipped away from the crowd, finding a serene spot in the garden.

“You look absolutely stunning in what you are putting on.” Natalie said, as she reached out to his palm while caressing hers over Nicholas’

Nicholas responded, “Thank you. You look pretty amazing yourself.”

“Is that all you have to say?” Natalie responded, anticipating to hear other remarkable compliments from Nicholas.

“I am married now, Natalie, we really need to put an end to this” Nicholas said, forgoing his palms from hers while adjusting his suit.

“So, tell me, what am I supposed to do with these feelings I have for you?” Natalie asked, reaching out slowly to kiss him.

Caught at the moment, Nicholas and Natalie shared a kiss, their passion and desire for each other overwhelming any sense of reason or responsibility.

As Nicholas and Natalie shared a moment alone in the garden, Sophie, who had been searching for Nicholas, stumbled upon them.

Shocked by what she had seen, Sophie's heart sank as she realized that her suspicions about Nicholas and Natalie were true.

Natalie left with a smirk on her face, realizing the chaos her actions had created. She intentionally hit Sophie with her shoulders as she walked away from them.

The atmosphere became tensed, their once joyous celebration was now overshadowed by the betrayal and hurt that hung in the air.

As Sophie turned to leave, her heart heavy with pain and betrayal, Nicholas grabbed her hand forcefully. His grip was so tight that it caused her pain, and she cried out in shock and pain.

“Let go of me!” Sophie yelled out, her voice trembling with pain as Nicholas's grip tightened on her hand.

His countenance grew in anger and disdain as he raised his hand to her cheek, a malicious gleam in his eyes. “Don't you dare speak to me like that!” he scornfully said.

Sophie, with her voice resonating in disappointment, “We've only been married for barely a week, Nicholas” she whispered, the realization of his words sinking in.

Nicholas's tone was filled with disdain as he replied, “Oh, please! We both know the truth. I never loved you. I married you just because of my family's requirements.” His words cut deep, leaving Sophie reeling about the harsh reality of their marriage.

As Sophie hurried back to the birthday celebration, her phone rang. She gazed profusely at her phone’s screen, wondering who the caller might be. She picked up the call, and paid attention to the voice of the caller, anticipating what was to be said.

"Hello, Sophie. You're running out of time” the voice said cryptically before hanging up abruptly.