Forever with the billionaire

Episode 2

Nicholas pov

It has been three years already. Three f*****g years of torture since she died with my baby. I’ve been battling with insomnia ever since that incident happened that night which is engraved in my memory.

I still blame myself for her death because If I didn’t insist on her getting that pregnancy test that day because she has been so secretive and has moving funny. I should have trusted her and loved her. She had a terrible accident on our way. I blame myself so badly. What if has been on my mind. What if I hadn’t insisted,she wouldn’t have died.

My father insisted I get married to one of his allies and I will become the managing director of the company if I get married. I dedicated all my life to this company ever since I was done with college.

The grand ballroom was transformed into a lavish wedding wonderland. Crystal chandeliers refracted light onto intricate floral arrangements, and impeccable staff bustled about, ensuring every detail was perfect. My mother, resplendent in silk and pearls, oversaw the preparations with an eagle eye.

"This union will cement our family's legacy," she reminded me, her voice tinged with expectation.

As I watched the seamless orchestration, my thoughts drifted to the woman I would soon call wife. What would our life together be like? Would we find common ground, or would our arranged marriage become a gilded prison? The sound of gentle laughter broke my reverie – my bride-to-be had entered the room.

I still remember the morning our paths crossed at the cozy coffee shop. Her clashing into me and almost falling into n her ass because of her clumsiness.Little did I know our paths will be intertwined.

As I stood across from my soon-to-be wife, I couldn't help but notice the desperation in her eyes. Our earlier encounter at the coffee shop still lingered in my mind – her fiery spirit and sharp tongue had caught me off guard. Who would have thought our heated exchange would be followed by an arranged marriage announcement?

Now, as I gazed at her, I sensed a mix of emotions: fear, determination, and a hint of vulnerability. Her earlier defiance is now replaced with resignation.But I still feel she has something going on with her. I couldn’t particularly read her expression because her face is stone hard.

As I stood there, I couldn't help but think about the weight of responsibility that had been placed on me. My father's impending retirement meant I had to take the reins of our family's company, and this arranged marriage was a crucial part of the transition.

The union would secure a vital business partnership, ensuring our company's stability and growth. I had to put family duty above personal desires, even if it meant sacrificing my own happiness.

I’ve always known this day will come, marrying a stranger,taking over the company. It’s quite overwhelming for me. I ve always imagined this wedding and all the wedding preparations with my ex girlfriend,Rachel. My father interrupted my thoughts which I’m glad about because I don’t want to reminisce about the past.

“ Nicholas,come over here and greet your soon to be father in law,my son”. My father said to me,

I walked over to where my soon to be wife and her parents are standing. I knew she recognized me from the morning because our gaze met each other. I couldn’t exactly read her expression. I don’t know if she’s faking it or being happy with this union. I couldn’t particularly name it.

“Meet my precious daughter,Audery,she’s the one you’re getting married to.” Mr Rhodes said to me while extending a firm hand.

She faked a smile at me which was so obvious and her expression came back to normal and she extended a hand at me.

“Hi,I’m Audery.” I was taken aback by her soft voice which was totally different from the morning when we almost clashed.

“You have a beautiful daughter Mr Rhodes.” I smirked at her which almost caught her off guard but she masked her face.

“Nicholas my boy,” Mr Rhodes said, interrupting our small encounter.” I hope and I trust you understand the gravity of this marriage.”

“I do sir,” I replied , shaking his hands. “ Merging together will strengthen both companies, sir.”

Mr Rhodes nodded, his eyes narrowing.“I’m glad you do,Nicholas” he said while chuckling with my father.

The orchestra began playing a waltz, and Audrey’s hand was thrust into mine. We stepped onto the dance floor, surrounded by the expectant gazes of our families and guests.

"You're quite the compliant bride," I said, my voice low.

Audrey’s eyes flashed; "And you're the perfect groom – cold, calculating, and eager to please your family."

I pulled her closer, our bodies aligning. "You know nothing about me."

"I know enough," she retorted. "You're marrying me for business. Don't pretend it's love."

My grip on her hand tightened. "Love was never an option. Our families saw to that."

Audrey’s gaze dropped, but her voice remained steady. "Yes, they did."

As we twirled across the floor, I asked, "What do you want from this marriage, Audrey?”

Her eyes snapped back to mine, a hint of defiance sparkling. "The same thing you do – power, security...and a way out."

My eyes narrowed. "A way out of what?"

Her smile was a thin line. "You'll find out soon enough “

As the music swelled, our movements became stiff and mechanical. The tension between us was palpable, like an electric charge waiting to spark.

Audrey’s eyes seemed to bore into mine, challenging me. I met her gaze, my expression neutral.

"You're enjoying this, aren't you?" she whispered, her breath tickling my ear.

"Enjoying what?" I replied, my voice low.

"The power dynamic. Controlling me, our families' future."

I spun her around, our steps precise. "This is business, Audrey. Don't make it personal."

Her laughter was a soft, mocking sound. "It's always personal."

Our bodies moved in sync, but our words hung like daggers in the air.