From Duty To Desire

Chapter 3

Ethan slumped into a chair, his eyes fixed on the door Brittany had just stormed through. He couldn't believe she had just stood up to him.

As he sat there, his mind began to wander back to the day his mother had informed him of the arranged marriage. He had been sitting in her office, the same office where she had always called the shots.

"Ethan,dear,we've found a suitable match for you", she had said,her voice dripping with satisfaction."Brittany Thompson is a wonderful girl, from a good family. Her parents have been friends with us for years, and this union will secure a crucial business deal for our company ".

"But mother,I don't even know her", Ethan had protested, feeling a surge of panic."Can't I at least have a say in who I marry?".

"Absolutely not, Ethan", his mother had replied firmly."This is a business arrangement, not a love match".

"I'm not even ready for marriage. I have my whole life ahead of me... and what about love?, what about happiness?".

Ethan's mother scoffed. "Love is a myth and happiness comes from duty and responsibility. You'll learn to love Brittany in time".

"But mother, that's not fair ", Ethan had said. I want to choose my own wife, someone I love and care about".

"It's your dad's decision and we have to agree with him. The wedding is set for June, and I expect you to be there, smiling and happy for the sake of our family's reputation".

Ethan had felt trapped,suffocated by his mother's words. He had always known he was destined for great things, but not like this, not in a loveless marriage. He knew his mother was caught in the middle, trying to balance her love for him with her loyalty to his father. He headed for his garden,a place where he could escape the pressures of his marriage.

After the quarrel with Ethan, Brittany went to the guest room and pulled out a book from her bag, and began to read. As she turned the pages, she felt a sense of comfort and familiarity. She had always loved reading, and her best friend,Dora,had once teased her about her "old-fashioned" love for physical books.

" E-books are so much more convenient. You can carry a whole library with you!".

Brittany had smiled,"That's exactly why I don't want to switch,Dora. I love the feel of physical books. The weight of the pages, the smell of the ink. It's a sensory experience that e-books just can't replicate".

Brittany knew reading was her solace,her happy place. She had brought a few of her favorite novels with her to the mansion. And now,as she read, she felt her mind calm and her heart slow.

Ethan and Brittany didn't talk to each other until the next day. They were finishing up breakfast when Ethan mentioned,"Hey, Gregory is coming over for dinner tonight."

Brittany nodded,her expression neutral. "Okay".

Ethan continued,"He's been wanting to meet you but has been very busy with work lately".

Brittany nodded again,her eyes fixed on her plate.The conversation was brief and simple,a typical conversation about a social engagement.

Gregory is a tall, charming man in his early thirties. He has a chiseled jawline, piercing blue eyes, and a captivating smile that makes him a magnet for women. He works as a successful investment banker, earning a high six figure salary, and is known for his sharp business acumen and ruthless negotiating skills.

Despite his polished exterior, Gregory has a reputation as a womanizer. He is always seen with a stunning woman on his arm, and his conquests are the stuff of office legend. He has a roving eye and a charm that can disarm the most skeptical of women.

Gregory is not married, and he has no intention of settling down anytime soon. He is content with his bachelor lifestyle, enjoying the freedom to do as he pleases, when he pleases. His parents have given up on trying to get him to commit to a relationship, knowing that Gregory's love for women is only rivalled by his love for himself.

Despite his flaws, Gregory is a loyal friend and a trusted confidant. He is the go-to guy for advice on everything from business deals to women, and his sharp wit and sarcasm can always be be counted on to lighten the mood.

Gregory walked into the dining room, his presence commanding attention. He was wearing a tailored navy blue blazer, perfectly fitted to his broad shoulders. His white shirt was unbuttoned at the top, revealing a hint of his chest. A patterned silver tie added a touch of sophistication to his outfit. His dark jeans were fitted perfectly, and his black leather shoes were polished to a high shine. A silver watch glinted on his wrist, completing his stylish ensemble.

He flashed his signature charm,a bright smile spreading across his face.

"Hey,hey,hey!. Look at the happy couple!", he exclaimed, his voice booming.

Ethan stood up, extending a hand for a firm handshake. "Gregory, good to see you man!".

Gregory clapped Ethan on the back, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Ethan, my friend!. How's life treating you?"

He turned to Brittany, his gaze appreciative. "And the lovely Brittany!. You're looking stunning,as always".

Brittany smiled politely,her cheeks flushing slightly."Hi, Gregory. Nice to see you again".

Gregory leaned in, kissing her cheek."Charmed,as always. You know, I've been thinking.............we need to get you out of this house often. Maybe a night on the town, just the three of us?"

Ethan raised an eyebrow, playfully rolling his eyes."Gregory, you're always up to something ".

Gregory chuckled, taking a seat at the table."Hey, someone's got to keep things interesting around here!"

The dinner table was set with a delicious spread of food: grilled salmon, roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, and garlic bread. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, making everyone's mouth water.

As they continued eating and chatting, the atmosphere remained light and enjoyable. The dinner was a resounding success, with empty plates and contented sighs all around.