Hunter's Pov
"Is everything in place? It’s crucial that everything meets the highest standards," I asked Jax, my gaze steady as I checked my watch for the umpteenth time.
"Relax. Everything is perfect, and it will unfold just as we've planned. The Adams family, your father, the investors, and other distinguished guests are all here," he reassured me with confidence.
"And Isabella? When will she be ready? It's been quite a while since they started dressing her," I inquired, my patience thinning.
"As the bride, she must look stunning,it's her special day. I'm quite sure she’ll be done any moment now."
I exhaled slowly, trying to steady my nerves. "Fine."
The importance of this moment weighed heavily on me. There was so much at stake, with both families investing millions into this "weddi
I turned to look out the expansive windows, absorbing the tranquil night sky lit by stars and the luminous full moon andtook a deep breath, grounding myself amid the anticipation.
A sharp knock at the door broke my focus.
"Come in," I responded, my voice calm.
A short, stout man entered, impeccably dressed in a tuxedo, his black hair slicked back. In a hurried manner, he announced, "Sir, she's ready," and quickly exited.
I knew my presence commanded a quiet respect and It gave me a sense of invisibility and power. Waiting beside the adjacent door, I prepared myself for her emergence.
Minutes ticked by without a sign of "my bride," a term that still felt strange to me. Wasn't I supposed to enter her room first, offer some kind of grand compliment, then escort her out? I hope not
Time pressed on, and I decided to take the first step. I entered her room, and what I saw froze me in place. Isabella stood there nervously, her stunning figure radiating an unspoken grace.
Her brown eyes drew me in, almost softening my resolve. I had never truly looked at her before, not even during the wedding. She was breathtaking, carrying an innocence that seemed almost untouchable.
She raised her perfectly shaped eyebrows in response to my gaze. Her curly, long hair flowed over her shoulders and down her back, a cascade that would look magnificent scattered across my pillow.
The silk fabric at her cleavage hinted at perfection. The firm, full breasts appeared untouched, or perhaps handled delicately by someone who knew her worth.
She was flawless. Staying free of impure thoughts for a year would be challenging, her beauty so mesmerizing.
What was I thinking? Such thoughts only threatened to complicate everything.
"We should get going, our guests are waiting," I said, my voice steady but tinged with unease.
"You look… incredible," she whispered softly, her tone calm and sweet.
Why did her voice sound so different now?
"Shall we?" I asked quickly, redirecting focus and trying to mask my fluctuations.
I gradually loomed over her, and I could sense her nervousness, which kept her from raising her gaze to meet mine. She gave a soft nod and gently placed her hand in mine.
Our entrance was nothing short of spectacular, illuminated by dazzling spotlights that highlighted us as we stepped into the room.
I noticed men turning their eyes toward Isabella with dreamy, admiring gazes, which instinctively caused me to tighten my hold on the small of her back, a protective gesture born from a blend of pride and fierce attachment.
I'm not entirely sure why I did that, perhaps it was instinct. Regardless, it was a reaction I couldn’t control, even if it was an arrangement I still wasn’t willing to share with anyone else.
The centerpiece pillars of cascading crystals added an elegant touch to the ballroom, their shimmering facets perfectly complementing the luxurious decor. Every detail had been meticulously arranged, creating an atmosphere of refined sophistication.
The event proceeded seamlessly as I introduced Isabella to my family and close friends. She remained composed, graciously polite, and I was certain they all appreciated her warmth and charm.
After a lengthy period of entertaining the guests, we were served wine, which Isabella politely declined. Her abstention revealed her saintly restraint, earning my quiet admiration.
Suddenly, I heard a voice call out, "Hunter McGregor," as I turned around.
Robert Kinsely" I responded coldly, embracing my Business Rival.
He nodded toward Isabella with a friendly sly grin. "Won't you introduce me to your beautiful bride?" he asked, taking her delicate hand and planting a gentle kiss on it.
I watched as Isabella's cheeks flushed, a subtle spark flickering in her eyes. She seemed a little nervous, her gaze dropping shyly as Robert studied her with interest.
"Isabella, this is my....Umm Robert Kinsely. Robert, my wife Isabella," I introduced them.
"Nice to meet you," Isabella said softly, offering a small, polite smile.
Robert's eyes remained fixed on her, as if he was seeing a stunning woman for the first time in his life.
"It’s a pleasure to meet you too. You look absolutely perfect tonight," Robert complimented her sincerely.
She blushed deeply at his compliment, prompting an even broader smile from Robert.
"Well, enjoy yourself. I’ve made sure to invite some single, beautiful women for you tonight," I said, gently pulling Isabella closer by her waist and planting a tender kiss on her head.
With the media’s cameras everywhere, we had to maintain our poised and glamorous appearance, but beneath that, Robert had to know that Isabella was mine.
He excused himself with a sly smirk on his face and I already knew he had a sinister plan in his mind. He could fool everyone but both of us knew the lengths he was willing to take to get what he really wanted.
A group of investors approached us and I had to put on a smile as my father's words echoed in the back of my head, 'do not mess this up'
Looking beyond them I could see her, stunning as always dressed in red.