His Reluctant Bride | forced marriage.

The Hayes mansion sparkled like a palace under the warm golden lights that adorned every corner. Chandeliers glistened, and a soft violin melody floated in the air as butlers moved gracefully, attending to the evening’s exclusive dinner event. Tonight was not just any dinner. It was special, though only a few knew just how special it was about to become. --- 🏛️ The Arrival of Guests In the grand living room, Emma Hayes stood with her mother, Laura, adjusting her delicate pearl bracelet. “Emma, darling, smile a little,” Laura whispered. “You look so tense.” Emma chuckled softly, “I’m just hoping Dad doesn’t make one of his dramatic speeches again.” “You know he will,” Sophie Emma's younger sister chimed in, bouncing into the room in a peach dress, her long hair tied with a sparkly clip. “And I’ll record it this time!” Emma rolled her eyes, but smiled. Sophie could lighten even a funeral. Soon, the Knight family arrived. Tall, calm, and immaculately dressed, James Knight walked in with his graceful wife, Helena, and their only son — Ethan Knight. Ethan wore a sharp black tuxedo, his expression as cold and unreadable as ever. His tall frame exuded quiet power, but his eyes — distant and calculating — scanned the room like he’d rather be anywhere else. Sophie ran to hug Helena. “Auntie Helena! I missed you!” “And I missed you, my little sunshine,” Helena laughed, hugging her warmly. Ethan stood beside them, watching with his arms folded. “Hi, ice cube,” Sophie teased him. “Still calling me that?” Ethan replied . He treat Sophie as his sister. Emma walked over, offering a forced smile. “I see the Knight of sarcasm has arrived.” Ethan gave her a lazy smirk. “And the queen of drama, right on cue.” “Children,” Helena sighed softly, “at least pretend you don’t hate each other.” James chuckled. “Some things never change.” --- 😏 Liam Carter Enters Just then, Liam Carter Ethan's best friend strolled in — effortlessly handsome, exuding charm in a navy-blue suit. “Well, well,” Liam grinned, “Did I just walk into a battlefield or a dinner party?” “Depends,” Ethan muttered, sipping his drink. Liam winked at Sophie. “You look like a cupcake today.” Sophie gasped. “Are you calling me fat?” Liam laughed. “No! Cute. Adorable. Eat-able—in a non-weird way.” Sophie laughed loudly, while Ethan narrowed his eyes. Liam instantly straightened his expression and changed the subject. --- 🍽️ Dinner Time The guests gathered around a long, lavish dining table filled with the finest cuisine — Italian, French, Pakistani, everything. At the head sat Michael Hayes Emma's father , proud and glowing with energy. Beside him, Laura held his hand. “Before we dig in,” Michael said, standing with a wine glass, “I want to thank all of you for being here. Friends like you make our family stronger.” Everyone clapped gently. “But tonight isn’t just about friendship…” He turned to Emma with a loving gaze. “It’s also about new beginnings. My dear daughter, Emma, is going to be engaged next weekend…” The room stilled. “…to Aaron Walker.” Gasps. Claps. Surprise. --- 😮 Reactions Emma’s eyes widened in shock, cheeks flushing. She turned to see Aaron Walker entering with his parents — Charles and Elena Walker — all dressed in grace, but dripping with hidden motives. Aaron sat beside her with a warm smile. “Surprise.” Emma whispered, “You knew?” He chuckled. “Maybe a little.” She smiled shyly, “I… didn’t expect this. But I’m happy.” Across the table, Ethan’s smirk faded. His jaw tightened. Liam leaned toward him. “You okay?” Ethan muttered, “He’s a liar.” “What?” “Nothing.” Ethan raised his glass. “Congratulations. At least she’s marrying someone good at pretending.” A beat of silence. Helena nudged his arm. “Ethan—” James watched carefully. Laura and Michael ignored it politely. Elena gave her fake sweet smile. --- 🌹 Private Confrontation Later that evening, Emma found Ethan standing near the hallway window, staring into the garden. “You really had to ruin it?” she said. “I was being honest,” he replied without looking at her. “Jealousy doesn’t suit you, Knight.” He turned toward her, eyes cold. “I’m not jealous, Hayes. I just know fakes when I see one. You think he’s in love with you?” She looked away. “At least he treats me better than you ever have.” “I treat you exactly how you deserve.” “You’re impossible.” “And yet you’re always standing here, arguing with me,” he said flatly, walking away. --- ❤️‍🔥 Meanwhile: Liam & Sophie “Your sister’s really marrying that Walker guy?” Liam asked. Sophie nodded. “I’m so excited! He seems sweet.” Liam tried to smile. “Yeah… sweet.” “You don’t like him?” she asked curiously. Liam shrugged, eyes on her. “Not sure yet. But I’d hate to see your family hurt.” Sophie smiled. “That’s sweet.” He looked like he wanted to say more, but then Ethan called out, “Liam, let’s go.” Liam sighed. “Coming.” --- 🚗 The Walkers’ Ride Home Inside their luxury car, Charles laughed darkly. “One step closer to the Hayes empire.” Elena said, “Emma is soft. Easily controlled. Just like we planned.” Aaron didn’t speak. His phone buzzed. Text from: Mia ❤️ “Don’t do this. I love you.” Aaron typed: “I’m trying. I’ll fix it.” He leaned his head back and closed his eyes. --- 📍End of Chapter 1