The Unexpected Husband

Chapter 1

I left Charles' office and chose to head towards the garden. I wanted to breathe in the fresh air.

Before I knew it, my tears were falling again. Richard's sudden no-show at the wedding, a dream we once constructed and shared, had deeply wounded me. The pain in my heart was almost unbearable.

Gradually, memories of our happier times started to flood back. The moment we first laid eyes on each other, and when he first professed his love for me.

I never thought I'd be marrying Charles, a man I don't love. I was in such a state when a servant approached me.

''Ma'am, someone is looking for you, a Ms. Dela Vega,'' she said.

Quickly wiping away my tears, I replied, ''Let her in, please.''

''Yes, ma'am."

As soon as the servant left, I found myself anxiously waiting in the garden. The scent of blooming flowers around me was calming, but the anticipation of Ms. Dela Vega's arrival stirred a whirlwind of emotions within me.

Soon, I saw her walking towards me, her elegant silhouette appearing from behind the garden's lush greenery. Her eyes, filled with concern, met mine. "Edna," she began, her voice barely above a whisper. "I heard about Richard. I'm so sorry."

I nodded, struggling to keep my composure. "Thank you, Ms. Dela Vega," I managed to say. We stood there amidst the serene beauty of the garden, an uncomfortable silence hanging in the air. I couldn't help but wonder, what brought her here today?

"I saw on the news that you and Mr. Charles were married. Did you know your wedding is the talk of the town, Edna?" she said.

I released a deep sigh. "Please, take a seat, Tatiana," I offered, motioning towards a sturdy chair made of Narra wood.

Tatiana took a seat, her eyes never leaving mine. "Edna," she began, her voice filled with concern, "I know this might not be what you want to hear right now, but... are you sure about this? Marrying Charles, I mean."

I looked at her, my heart heavy. "It's complicated, Tatiana," I confessed, "But it's a decision I had to make."

Her gaze softened. "I understand, Edna. Just remember, no matter what, you have people who care about you. You're not alone in this."

Her words, though comforting, made me realize the gravity of the situation I was in. Marrying Charles wasn't just about me, it was affecting everyone around me.

"Have you investigated Richard's sudden absence?" she questioned.

"Charles is taking care of it, Tatiana."

"And you, don't you want to make a move?"

"I don't want to undermine Charles, Tatiana."

"That makes sense, after all, Richard is his nephew, so it's natural he'd want to find his own kin."

The mention of Richard's name sent a pang through my heart. He was supposed to be my groom, not Charles. Richard, who made me laugh, who understood me like no one else did. But he was gone, and here I was, married to Charles, a man I didn't love.

"I miss him, Tatiana," I confessed, my voice barely above a whisper. "He was supposed to be standing next to me at the altar, not Charles."

Tatiana reached out and took my hand, giving it a comforting squeeze. "I know, Edna. And I believe he misses you too, wherever he is."

Her words, while meant to comfort, only served to remind me of the gaping hole Richard's absence had left in my life. But I knew I had to stay strong, for myself and for the hope that Richard would return.

In reality, Tatiana's presence brought me some comfort. Her company, if only for a short while, managed to lighten the heavy burden I was bearing in my heart.

As the sun started to set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, Tatiana and I continued to sit in the garden, lost in our own thoughts. The silence between us was comfortable, the kind you only share with a true friend.

"Tatiana," I finally broke the silence, "Thank you. For being here, for listening. It means more than you know."

She gave me a small smile, "That's what friends are for, Edna. And remember, no matter how tough things get, you're stronger than you think."

Her words, filled with sincerity and warmth, gave me a glimmer of hope. Though the future was uncertain, I knew I wouldn't have to face it alone. With friends like Tatiana, I could find the strength to face whatever came my way.

Not long after, Tatiana bid me farewell. After some time, I chose to head back inside the mansion. Upon entering, I unexpectedly crossed paths with Charles.

I was surprised to find him without a shirt on. What was he thinking? Did he not realize I was in the house?

"Why aren't you wearing a shirt?" I couldn't hide the annoyance in my voice. I made a conscious effort not to let my eyes linger on his enticing, flawlessly chiseled abs. I couldn't help but arch an eyebrow when I spotted a few of our maids openly gawking at Charles' allure.

Charles looked at me, seemingly unfazed by my irritation. "I just finished a workout," he explained, a smirk playing on his lips as he noticed the maids' attention.

"I see," I replied curtly, turning my gaze away. "Well, could you please put a shirt on? This is a shared space, after all."

He chuckled at my comment, but nodded in agreement. "Fair enough, Edna. I'll keep that in mind."

As he walked away, I couldn't help but feel a strange mix of annoyance and relief. Living with Charles was proving to be more challenging than I'd anticipated. Yet, I knew I had to navigate this new reality for now.

"Return to your duties!" I commanded the maids, clearly irritated. It was common knowledge that Charles was a notorious playboy. I was indifferent to his antics. He could entertain as many women as he pleased, it didn't bother me. However, if he dared to flaunt it publicly, it would undoubtedly lead to a clash between us. Especially since I was also protecting my reputation as a teacher.

Speaking of my job, I took a week off. But after my leave, I plan to return to work. It's better to keep myself busy so I won't think about Richard too much. I've been losing my appetite for several days now because of thinking about him.

"Having a wife like you is quite enjoyable," Charles remarked, smiling at me. I shot him a piercing look. He had put on a white tank top by now.

"Any updates on the investigation about Richard?" I queried, choosing to ignore his comment.

Charles' smile faltered a bit at the mention of Richard. "The investigation is ongoing," he replied, his tone serious. "We're doing everything we can to find him."

His response, though expected, did little to ease my worry. "I hope so, Charles," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "I hope so."

With that, I excused myself and headed to my room, leaving Charles standing in the hallway. As I closed the door behind me, I couldn't help but feel a pang of longing for Richard, for the life we could have had. But for now, all I could do was wait and hope for his safe return.

I chose to hit the sack, in all honesty, I needed to recharge to be ready for what's to come. As per Charles' words, I was to join him at a glitzy and posh party for a business gathering.

So, I slipped into bed, allowing the day's events to slowly fade away as I drifted off to sleep. I knew I had a long evening ahead. Attending a lavish business event with Charles was not something I was particularly looking forward to, but it was a part of my new life that I had to accept.

When I woke up later, I prepared myself for the event. I chose a simple yet elegant dress, did my hair and makeup, and put on a brave face. As I looked at my reflection, I couldn't help but think about how different my life had become.

The party was as glamorous as Charles had described. Beautiful people, sparkling chandeliers, and the constant hum of conversation filled the grand hall. As I stood by Charles' side, playing the role of the dutiful wife, I couldn't help but wonder about Richard. Where was he? Was he safe?

Despite the glitz and glamour around me, I felt a sense of loneliness. But I knew I had to stay strong, keep up appearances, and hope for better days.

I couldn't ignore the numerous women whose gazes were locked on my partner. Who could resist a second glance at the attractive and appealing Charles? He's charismatic, muscular, and most importantly, rich - a genuine dream for many.

As the evening wore on, I found myself playing the role of the dutiful wife, smiling and making small talk with the guests. Charles was the center of attention, his charisma and charm drawing people in. I watched as women fluttered around him, their eyes filled with admiration and desire.

Despite the jealousy that one might expect, I felt oddly detached. After all, my heart belonged to Richard, not Charles. Instead, I found myself observing the spectacle with a sense of curiosity. It was fascinating to see how people were drawn to wealth and power.

As the night came to a close, I couldn't help but feel relieved. The event had been draining, and I was looking forward to some peace and quiet.

"Are you alright?" Charles murmured into my ear. I involuntarily shuddered as I felt the heat of his breath on my cheek and neck, causing an unexpected warmth to spread across my skin. I discreetly distanced myself from him.

"Just a bit worn out," I responded.