Made In Texas

Chapter One

Louise

I felt a knot tighten in my stomach as the weight of reality settled over me – they were arranging a marriage for me. The idea left me with chills, a mixture of fear that something unpleasant will happen and acceptance of the truth clouding my thoughts as the future revealed uncertain and unknown before me.

The conversation that filled the room echoed around me, surrounding me like I was caged and I have to fulfil their expectation towards my built future. His family and mine exchanged words as they talked about a proposal that pleased their sense of devotion to a family. A vacation in Texas, they delivered, an opportunity for their son and daughter to form bonds and spend time together. Or more likely, to force a bond between them. Between him and I. There was nothing worse than the thought that someone I do not even know nor want to invade my body— which I considered divine as much as every woman’s.

As each word lingered heavily in the air, I was unable to disregard the tension settled in my soul. In the middle of the murmurs of discussion and the clinking of teacups, I stole a glance at him, my betrothed. His gaze met mine briefly, a flicker of curiosity mirroring my own, before turning away to focus on the logistics of the impending trip. The distance between us, both physical and emotional, seemed to stretch into infinity, a divide that underscored the enormity of the path that lay ahead.

I found myself grappling with a mixture of emotions - curiosity for the unknown, fear of the unfamiliar, and a glimmer of hope for the possibility of connection. Despite the fact that he is from a successful business, which was the reason for our arrangement, he might have a hidden attitude and character which I might not like, considering the list of standards I created. The fact that soon, we are expected to produce an heir, sent a shiver down my spine. Will he take care of me in that case? Will he meet my needs? He does not look like the guy who would pamper his woman. As a matter of fact, he does not even seem to be interested in the conversation.

As the moments passed in the hushed anticipation of the impending journey, I felt the weight of Nico Rostova's gaze upon me. His eyes, a mesmerizing shade of azure that seemed to hold untold secrets and hidden depths, bore into mine with an intensity that sent a lump in my throat. Though his appearance was striking, with a presence that commanded attention and a charm that held allure, a sense of unease settled within me.

The awareness that Nico was drawn to me in ways that went beyond a responsibility triggered an upsurge of conflicting emotions within me. There is always something a guy gives off when they are attracted to someone. I can say this after the observing how a number of guys, stranger, act before they try to talk to me.

Despite his external appearance of attractiveness and charm, a sensation of unease, an unnerving feeling of ick, took at the edges of my awareness. The magnetic pull he had on me collided with my subconscious anxiety.

As Nico's gaze lingered for a long time, a flash of anticipation crossed my face, an appearance of polite detachment concealing the discomfort that raged within me. I held his sight until he broke it by looking away. The possibility of beginning on a trip with a man whose motives and ambitions remained unknown in mystery left me feeling vulnerable and exposed, a pawn in a game of hidden desires and unspoken truths.

Despite seeming pleasant and understanding, an underlying tension persists beneath the surface of our conversations. The uneasiness I felt toward Nico and the future we'd share in Texas overpowered the possibility for connection and mutual understanding that this trip was supposed to develop.

Nico has the “looks”. I believe someone could fall head-over-heals the moment they saw him. He has an appeal that would make a girl chase him, however, I also sense a feeling that he us the type of person who would not give a d**n about people if he does not want to.

As our families discussed the upcoming trip to Texas and the details of our arranged marriage, a noticeable tension filled the air, reflecting the mix of emotions I was feeling. The plans unfolded like a book where our life was written, perfectly shaped and detailed— a book that we need to follow in order to remain a reputation.

My mind lingered on the intriguing figure of Nico Rostova, the man who is to be my future husband. His presence loomed tremendous in the room, a silent surveillance of fascination and mystery who's character remained undistinguishable.

Though, I will not deny the fact that the marriage gives me a thrill. Frankly, an arranged marriage does not seem like a bad idea. Except for the reality that I will have to disregard the respect I have for my body and soul by surrendering to a stranger.

Our conversations wandered through the plans for the trip - the places to visit, the activities to do, and the moments of closeness we should share under the Texan sun. Each discussion reminding me of how my terribly my life could end up if I made a mistake.

The doubts and worries I had about Nico started to give way to a spark of curiosity and a glimmer of hope. Perhaps, even with the uncertainties of our relationship, we could build a bond of understanding and companionship.