Unforseen Love

Chapter 8

Julian's POV

Today was the day of the engagement dinner. I haven't seen or heard from Meghan in a week. After the day I told her everything, she sent me a text telling me to give her space and time to think about things. I was scared that she would break up with me. I tried to call her so we could talk this out, and I could explain things to her again if she was not assured, but I stopped myself.

I decided to respect her and give her the time and space she needed. I was going to push her into anything even though I didn't want her to leave me. It took every ounce in my body to make that decision. That day she didn't tell me how long she would need, but when a week went by, I started to get worried.

I tried calling her several times, but she wouldn't pick up her phone. I went to her place, but she wasn't there. I went everywhere I thought she would be, but I could not find her and no one had seen or heard from her for a while. I was starting to regret telling her about this stupid marriage. I should have just kept it a secret from her. I am sick and worried about her. I feel angry and frustrated.

I thought about bailing on the engagement dinner. I don't even want to get married anyway. Maybe I should just tell my father that I didn't want this and put my foot down, but I knew that my father wouldn't badge. If I insist, I am afraid he might do something to Meghan so he can separate us. So I couldn't do it because, as it is, I am concerned for Meghan's safety. My father is a shrewd man. He can go to any lengths to get what he wants.

I got dressed and ready to go. Let's get this over and done with. I am not going to stay longer than necessary at the engagement dinner. As soon as we exchange rings and pleasantries, I will make an excuse and I am out of there.

Even though my father might try to stop me, I will not entertain that woman and her family more than I should. I grabbed my keys and my phone heading downstairs when my father called me.

I answered the call. " Yes, father," I said.

" I called to inform you not to be late. I don't want you to give the Harrison family a bad impression in front of your future in-laws. Do you understand?"

I rolled my eyes in annoyance.

" I understand father. I will not be late," I replied curtly, and cut the call before he could say anything else.

I went to my car and sped in the direction of the restaurant. I was anxious all the way there. I couldn't stop worrying about Meghan and going to this engagement party felt so wrong.

I hated myself at the moment for failing Meghan. I don't deserve her. Not so long, I pulled up at the restaurant and got out of the car. I tossed my keys to the valet on my way inside. Royal Bite Restaurant. It's the most popular high-class restaurant in the city, and it takes an arm and a leg to secure a reservation. It's a family friend's restaurant, so my father managed to get an exclusive for tonight.

When I entered the restaurant I was welcomed by the manager. A stumpy middle-aged man. Soft music was playing in the background.

" Good evening, Mr Harrison. Your father and the guests have been waiting for you in the private rooms," he said. Private rooms are exclusive for VIP members of the restaurant.

I took a breath as he led the way to the table, and I could hear people laugh at a distance. I got close to the room down the hall and the manager opened the door for me. I entered and saw the backs of 3 people facing me. My father was sitting across the table facing me. As soon as he saw me, his gaze hardened in disapproval. I guess I was a bit late seeing everyone is already here.

I saw Monica Ray, my father's girlfriend, sitting there. I arched my brow, surprised by her presence.

" Ah, Julian, my son. You are finally here," my father announced my presence, letting his guests know. 3 heads turned towards me. I noticed Mr and Mrs Hart and then my eyes landed on a young lady with striking green eyes, fair skin and soft plump lips.

I found myself unable to look away from this stranger. She attracted my gaze like a magnet.

" Mr Hart. This is my son, Julian Harrison." My father came to me and put an arm around me like a loving father wasn't. I felt a product being presented to a buyer to be sold.

Mr Hart, Mrs Hart, and his daughter got up to greet me. Mr Hart extended his hand and I reluctantly took it, and we shook hands.

" Nice to finally meet you, Julian. Your father has told us a lot about you," he said with a polite smile on his face. Unfortunately, I couldn't reciprocate his energy.

" Likewise Mr Hart," I replied curly with a stoic expression.

The tension was felt in the room.

" This is my wife, Alice Hart, and here is our lovely daughter, Iris Hart." He emphasized the 'lovely' . How pathetic.

Iris forced a small smile on her face before saying," Nice to meet you, Mr Harrison."

I was quiet for a few seconds after hearing her smooth sweet voice. I gave her a nod and said, "You too, Miss Hart."

Awkward introductions were over, and my father made space for me in the middle of him and Monica. I didn't make a fuss, but Monica's perfume was strong and unbearable. It was like she sprayed the whole bottle of it on her. I was wondering if I was the only one or if no one wanted to point it out, so they just ignored me. I wanted a window open, but I refrained from making a scene. Why was she even here? Beats me.

Iris was made to sit in the middle as well, so we were seated across from each other. The adults talked and the both of us were quiet unless secure to talk. I felt like a child at 27 years of age. Iris avoided my gaze, making sure to look anywhere but me. How did I notice? I was stealing glances at her the whole time.

I had a lot of questions about her. From what I can see, she looked like a sweet girl who knew how to behave, but that could be an act in front of everyone. Who was the real her? What kind of person is she? I somehow wanted to know that. Does that mean I wanted to know her better? No way. I just wanted to know a little bit about the woman I am to start a life with.

Although I didn't like her or love her, I didn't want to be married to a complete stranger. She is beautiful. I couldn't deny that. But the only woman who will ever be beautiful to me is, of course, Meghan, so her beauty doesn't really mean anything to me nor affect me.

" Alright. I think it's time. Let's begin the engagement," my father suddenly announced, pulling me out of my reverie. I was too zoned out to see two small boxes containing the rings on the table. One princess-cut ring with a shiny diamond and one with a silver band with two lines. It was starting to get to me. The anxiety and cold feet. My eyes met with Iris's eyes.

I could see the same emotions I had in her. I guess we are both in the same boat.