Devil's Queen

Chapter 6

“Since things has already happened and you need to stay together for a year to get divorce. Why not use this time? Spend time together for a year, if required apply for divorce then. What do you say?” Grandpa asked. It felt ideal for everyone. He’s basically asking her to agree for the marriage in roundabouts.

“No.” Elisha replied curtly. This marriage is nothing but a hindrance for all her plans. More importantly she doubts she can ever have a normal relationship.

The room went silent.

“Let’s talk.” The tensed atmosphere was broken by a cold voice. Sharon, Ruthur and Leo were quite surprised as it was suggested by Ian.

Elisha wanted to reject, but the look in his eyes made her curious, so she agreed after a moment of contemplation.

“We both don’t accept this marriage. Knowing our mothers, I’m sure they won’t stay still, they will set another trap. I’m tired of her tricks. Let’s pretend we are staying together for a year and think about other things later. For now, let’s go with the flow. We will not fulfill any duties of husband and wife and live the way as we are living now.” Ian began without beating around the bush as they stood in the garden. He’s a man of few words and always straightforward.

Ian was furious hearing his so-called marriage news. He was angry on himself for falling into Sharon’s trap once again. He wanted nothing but to tear apart the marriage certificate and get over with it. All the women Sharon tried to match up with him till now were greedy for attention and money. There were few even stripped in front of him, it only increased his disgust towards women.

But seeing Elisha who was nothing like those women's, his burning rage turned calculative. There was no greed in her eyes except annoyance just like his. So, he decided to take a chance and propose a deal to be free from Sharon’s torture.

It still didn’t settle Elisha’s frenetic mind, but the offer was tempting. Being free for a year was good, but she was hesitant of the things that could happen in a year. Moreover, she couldn’t just trust Ian’s words whom she met only half an hour ago.

“How can I trust your words?” Elisha expressed her thought with a frown.

“I never said to trust me. I don’t trust you either.” Ian replied bluntly.

“Moreover, is there anything else you can do now? I’m just stating a better option. Choice is yours” Ian leaned back onto the wooden bench with hands inserted in his pockets.

Elisha felt as if he was looking down on her. Elisha was always proud of her height she’s slightly taller than average woman and was equal in height with few men but facing Ian who’s a lot taller than her hurt her pride. She felt small in front of his figure.

Well, she can continue to deny the marriage and stay away from Ian. But being a rich businessperson’s daughter will circulate lot of rumours which will only cause trouble to her and her family. Not to mention, it's already certified it won't end with just rumours.

What Ian said was true there was nothing they can do now except accepting the marriage. It might help her to not to get noticed by Allen as well. Everything was well planned. Elisha’s frown deepened in frustration.

“Fine, as long as we stay away from each other.” Gritting her teeth, she agreed.

“But I have a condition.” Elisha continued.

The living room atmosphere was different from few minutes ago. Rona and Sharon couldn’t contain their smile as Elisha and Ian agreed to be married for a year.

“It’s finally happening! I have already instructed Melisa to design all type of wedding dress. I need to start preparing party theme, guest list, book wedding planner, designer and stylists, need to choose cake, send invites. There’s still so many things to do.” Rona clapped her hands in sheer excitement.

“Right, I can’t wait to start things.” Sharon joined as well. Both ladies were immersed in their world.

“There will be no wedding. In fact, we don’t plan on announcing the marriage itself.” Elisha’s words burst their little bubble. This was her condition and Ian accepted gladly.

“What do you mean?” Rona frowned.

“You heard it right. Just like how you didn’t announce our marriage to us, we don’t want to announce the marriage to the world either.” Elisha’s fake bright smile irked Rona.

“Eli, what are you trying to do? Didn’t you agree to be married?” Kyle who was quiet till now expressed his confusion.

“Yes, consider it like a dating period. This marriage is only for a year and we’ll be divorced later, so why bother having an extravagant wedding?” Elisha shrugged.

“Then I shall be your witness.” Ryan spoke grabbing Elisha and Ian’s attention.

“Since you plan not to announce your marriage and plan to divorce later, you’ll need a witness to say your marriage failed after being together. I’ll become the witness and watch both of you closely.” Ryan stood up with a benign smile.

Elisha’s jaw dropped and eyes widened in shock. This is not what she expected. He meant he’ll keep an watch whether they’re actually together or not.

“There’s no way there’s a law like that.” Ian frowned. Their plan of staying away from each other vaporized into thin air.

“There is, my dear son. I’ll send the law books and related documents to you later. And all the best for your married life.”

And just like that Ian and Elisha’s world turned upside down.