CHAPTER 12: MY WOMAN
1190 Words
CASSIUS
The drive to the meeting was silent–too silent.
Daphne sat quietly, her fingers entangled, staring out of the window as the car whizzed past buildings and gorgeous city lights.
It was already dusk, making the view even more captivating.
My grip on the wheel was tight as my jaws twitched. Her new appearance still shocked me. I hadn’t expected a trembling girl to transform into a stunning woman in such a short time.
But it was understandable–money could do anything.That was Godfather Marcus's theory.
Her sweet, intoxicating scent filled the car as I shifted in my seat. I stole a glance at her, taking in her appearance once more.
Her red, glossy lips quivered slightly. My eyes dropped to her exposed thighs before I quickly looked away, stopping a reckless thought before it formed.
Suddenly, a red sports car cut into my lane.
“Damn it,” I cursed, slamming my feet hard on the brake.
She gasped, jerking forward.
Without thinking, I reached out, shielding her head with my arm. My knuckles took the hit instead.
I screeched to a stop. Her eyes were wide as she leaned back, her hands trembling.
“Are you fine?” I asked, pulling my hand back.
She nodded slowly and bit her lip. “Thank you.”
The redred car actually signaled, but I was too busy looking at—
I scoffed, started the engine, and drove off.
We arrived at the venue quickly. I parked in the garage and turned off the engine. Daphne fiddled with her nails, nervousness clear in her eyes.
“Just stay calm,” I murmured as I stepped out.
She followed, the slit in her dress revealing her inner thighs—visible only to me. When she straightened fully, my eyes caught the curve of her ass.
I blinked and loosened my tie. The air suddenly felt choking.
I held out my arm. She hesitated, then slipped her hand into mine, and we walked in together.
Inside was buzzing with faint music. Guests chatted happily, obviously talking about business. Paparazzi lights flashed around, documenting the event.
As soon as we fully stepped in, all heads turned to us. I smirked inwardly–I expected this.
Cameras flashed in our faces. I glanced at Daphne. She wore a soft, dazzling smile, but I could tell she was nervous. Her hand trembled slightly on my arm.
Soft gasps rippled through the air, their gaze almost ate us up. But I noticed I wasn't the center of attraction here. It was Daphne–my wife. Wife? Really?
“Gosh! His wife is so elegant.” A lady gushed dramatically, twirling her wine glass.
“She's a goddess, an epitome of beauty,”another said.
“They match. Greek god–goddess.” Several comments flew from all angles but I barely heard. I could feel the perverted stares of men, like they couldn't wait to devour her whole. My fist clenched at my side as a dark smirk curled on my lips.
My hands slipped around her waist, bringing her closer to me. She gasped softly, throwing me a confused stare. I was only trying to remind the perverts that she's taken.
I spotted Marcus on a table, surrounded by his other business associates. We walked over to them.
The paparazzi lights flashed non stop as whispers from the crowd followed behind us.
When we reached the table, Marcus looked up, his usual dark smirk appearing.
“You're here.” He muttered, then his gaze shifted to Daphne.
She smiled at him—and surprisingly, he smiled back. Not his usual dangerous one, but something genuine.
I raised a brow. Is he insane?
“Take a seat,” he said, gesturing to two chairs beside him.
I pulled Daphne’s chair back. She smiled softly. “Thank you.”
I could feel Marcus's intense gaze on us, watching us like we were his prey. If he thinks I'll let my guards down around him and reveal that our marriage is fake. Then, he must be a fool.
He exhaled, glancing around the table. “Let's begin the introduction.” He cleared his throat. “Gentlemen, meet my godson and his wife. Cassius–” He glanced at me. “Meet my top business associates.”
I nodded simply, scanning them each. We exchanged pleasantries, including our names and other business related things.
I nodded, scanning them. We exchanged pleasantries and brief business talk.
One man’s eyes lingered on Daphne. “Nice meeting you. I’m Ethan,” he said, stretching out his hand. Okay, why is he staring at her that way?
“It’s my pleasure,” Daphne replied, smiling as she shook his hand.
They held on longer than necessary.“You’re beautiful,” he said softly, still gripping her hand.
My jaw tightened. Get your hands off her.
Daphne smiled, a faint blush appearing on her cheeks.Perfect, so perfect. She's blushing at his stupid words.
“That’s enough,” I muttered internally.
I grabbed their joined hands and pulled them apart. “How about you keep your hands off my woman?”
The words left my mouth before I could stop them.
Daphne shot me a sharp look, surprise written all over her face.
My woman?
Ethan chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck.“Possessive, huh? I like that.”
I ignored him and looked at Marcus.
His gaze wasn’t on Ethan—it was fixed on Daphne and me. On how tightly I held her hand.
I looked down, realizing I hadn’t let go. I released her slowly and met Marcus’s eyes.
He smirked.
Good. Believe the marriage is real and hand over my inheritance.
The meeting continued. Drinks and food were served as business discussions filled the table.
“Are you okay?” I asked quietly.
“Yes,” she said. “I’ll be in the restroom.”
I nodded as she stood and walked away, her hips swaying with each step. My eyes followed her until she disappeared.
What was that about?
A light tap on my hand pulled me back.
Marcus studied me with a mischievous grin. “Is she okay?”
“Yes,” I replied, sipping my wine.
“Ready for the speech?” he asked.
“Sure,” I said, glancing in the direction she’d gone. Tonight’s business gala featured speeches from several CEOs—and I was one of them.
Minutes passed. Daphne didn’t return.
I checked my watch again and again. Why was she taking so long?
I rose, chairs scraping against the floor.
Marcus’s brows drew together. “Where to? The speeches are about to begin.”
My jaws ticked. “I'll be back.”
I said, then walked away toward the restroom. I stopped at the entrance to the women’s restroom, not wanting to intrude on anyone’s privacy.
“Daphne?” I called out.
Muffled sounds drifted from inside, low and unsettled, like someone struggling to be heard. Curiosity got the better of me, and I stepped in.
The scene stopped me cold. My eyes narrowed, a red-hot rage igniting inside me.
- Writer
