Forever with the billionaire

Audrey’s POV “Welcome ma’am,what would you like to order?” The waitress said to me as I entered the cafe to get some coffee and some snacks that will keep me going for the day. “I would like some muffins and a Latte please.” “Okay ma’am,have your seat over there,I will get back to you”. I replied with a thank you and found my seat around the corner of the shop. As I was waiting for my order,I was looking through my tablet for the clients information I am supposed to meet today and I don’t want any issues to happen like what happened last time. I work as a Legal Representative for my Father’s company. “Your order is ready ma’am”.The waitress informed me. I packed my things and collected the order. As I was about to leave the cafe,everything happened so fast,it felt like minutes were passing for me as I stumbled back on my heels causing me to almost fall on my ass with my bags and breakfast in my hand. Just as I was about to hit the ground,a strong arm grabbed my waist, steadying me. I looked up to thank my rescuer but I was taken back by his piercing blue eyes,chiseled jawline and a messy dark mop hair.His sharp features softened for a moment but it turned griff back. However before I could utter a thank you; “Watch where you’re going clumsy”. The handsome stranger growled at me. I was still shaken by what happened and shot back at him. “And maybe try being more polite to someone you helped.” I sneered back at him. The stranger raised an eyebrow seemingly taken back by my sass,huffed and walked inside the cafe so as not to create a scene. I couldn’t help but mutter a curse underneath.” Stupid ass.” I was sitting in my office doing some work until I got a notification about the gala that’s happening tonight from my father. I rolled my eyes thinking about the torture I will have to go through because I will be on heels and all these gowns that are not comfortable. I made a mental note to myself to get a dress after work this evening. I left the office and went to the department store to get a dress. I saw a dress that I liked, paid for it and left for my parent’s place. My parents won’t let me have my own space not because they’re overprotective but they still think they can control my life. They made sure I got the best education,clothes and anything that I want because they want to keep an image of the society.I know everything is just a facade.I’ve tried to escape so many times but all my escapades were to no avail. I got ready for the gala,put on some minimal make up and wore some pumps. I had my driver outside for this kind of event which happens almost every month. I got to the venue and the grand gala shimmered with crystal chandeliers and elegant guests.My parents called me over to sit with them with my spoiled brat sister, who is their favorite daughter. They organized this event for reasons best known to them and I have no idea what this gala is about. However ,I couldn’t shake off the feeling that I was being watched but I decided to ignore it .As I mingled with people,my father made his way to the stage,a sly smile on his face. “Ladies and gentlemen,esteemed guest,tonight, we celebrate a glorious occasion,my daughter, Audery ,will marry Mr Brooks son,Nicholas,securing a union that will strengthen our families legacies.” The room erupts in applause,however,my world crumbled as people clapped,happy about the marriage. My father made his way to where I was standing with some people whose faces were not familiar. “Audrey,say Hello to them ,you will be getting married to their son in three weeks so start getting ready”.My Father declared to me leaving no room for further talks. “Marriage? What the hell are you saying father? I have to get married in three weeks ? For what? How? Why?,” I lashed at him angrily. Before i could utter any more words,he grabbed my hands and pulled me to the side to threaten me. “Don’t question me and do as you’re told! Don’t cause a scene here,we’ll talk about this much better over lunch tomorrow with your soon to be parent in law and your soon to be husband and play along to avoid drawing attention.” My father scowled at me.He released my hands which were hurting. “I’m so sorry about her behavior Mr Brookes,she doesn’t behave like this,I guess she’s shocked.” He faked a chuckle concealing his annoyance. “It's fine,Mr Rhodes,she must be shocked.” Mr Brookes said while chuckling. How did my life go from darkness to despair? I’ve endured years of emotional abuse,belittling words and cold indifference from my family.The gala is just another facade,a mask that hides our family’s rotten truth. “Hah,Nicholas,there you are,meet my precious daughter, Audrey,she’s the one you’re getting married to.” I turned around to meet the so-called Nicholas. I was rather surprised because he’s the same rude man I met in the morning who almost ruined my day. He looked good in his well tailored suit and his hair was styled to perfection. Our eyes met and I knew he recognized me from this morning. We held each other’s eyes for some minutes until his father interrupted our trance. “This is my son who will be taking over the company after my retirement.” His father proclaimed. “ Good evening,Mr Rhodes,you have a beautiful daughter.” He smirked while offering his hand for a shake towards my father. I looked at him again and he looked unfazed about what’s going and here I am losing my mind even though I looked composed on the outside. I couldn’t particularly name what I’m feeling whether it’s anger,pain, or desperation because I’ve been longing for a way out from my parent’s house and which means my freedom from my parents is near.But I don’t know what will happen in this so-called marriage? Will it be another prison to another prison?