I was 18, and I had no real idea of what that truly meant until my father made a decision that would change my life forever. An arranged marriage, with Isaac Miller, a young billionaire whose name echoes around the world. My father made this decision to restore peace between our families, a peace I didn't even understand. Isaac Miller wasn't just a businessman; he was a living empire. Thousands of companies, investments in sectors that even the biggest corporations wouldn't dare touch. At 25, he was already at the helm of it all, a business genius, relentless, unshakable. And I, I was nothing more than Claudia Richardson, an 18-year-old girl, kind and innocent, who never asked to be a pawn in a game far beyond my understanding. I often wondered how a man like Isaac could commit to such a relationship, one based on a contract, on family benefits rather than real feelings. But my father had his reasons, reasons I didn't have the courage to question. He said it was for stability, to protect our name, our legacy. But that only frightened me more. Why would a man like Isaac, with so much power, agree to marry a girl like me? The marriage was just a formality for him, a way to maintain order and family interests. But what was I in all of this? Just a simple symbol of union between two empires.
The sun streaming through my curtains awakens me, its rays hitting my face just the right way to pull me from my exhausted slumber. I yawn tiredly, the lack of sleep from last night weighing on me, but I drag myself up anyway. My feet hit the cold wooden floor, sending a slight shiver up my spine as I stand up and stretch, my body groaning in protest.
I shuffle toward the bathroom, still half asleep, and glance at myself in the mirror. My brown curly hair is a complete mess, a wild bird's nest of tangled strands. Compared to others like my mother and sisters, my hair is considerably longer. It's one of the things I actually like about myself, even if it requires constant care to tame.
I turn on the warm water from the tap, splashing it over my face. The cold, refreshing splash wakes me up slightly, but the weariness lingers. I quickly turn off the tap and gather my hair, pulling it into a messy bun. It's one of those days where I really couldn't care less about how I look, especially since I'm not going anywhere today.
Walking out of the bathroom, I head straight to my walk-in closet, scanning my wardrobe for something comfortable. I settle on a simple grey crop top and black shorts, the perfect choice for a lazy day at home. I throw on my undergarments and pull the clothes on before heading downstairs, ready to face whatever chaos the house might have in store.
The moment I reach the bottom of the stairs, I hear the familiar sound of shouting.
"Mum, she's always taking my makeup and smudging it all over her face! It's expensive, you know!" Amelia's voice rings out, high-pitched and demanding.
I groan inwardly. This argument again. I know exactly what happened. Amelia, always a drama queen, probably overreacted to something small, like Isabella using her makeup. I brace myself for the inevitable.
"Mum, she wasted perfectly good makeup!" I hear Isabella crying now, her sobs echoing through the house.
Sighing, I know I'll have to intervene. Amelia's tantrums never seem to end, and my mother's patience has a tendency to wear thin with her. I march down the stairs, walking into the living room to find Amelia standing with her arms crossed, frowning at Isabella, who's still wiping tears from her eyes. Mum stands nearby, trying to maintain some semblance of control, but even I can tell her temper is close to snapping.
"Do NOT treat her like this!" Mum suddenly roars, her voice surprisingly loud. "I told you, she's young! If you're so angry about it, I'll buy you new stuff!"
My eyes widen. Mum never shouts. She's always calm and rational, even in the most stressful of situations. Her calm demeanor has a way of calming me down, though sometimes it's so serene it annoys me. But this... this is different. Her voice carries a rare sharpness that's enough to make me stop in my tracks.
"Ugh!" Amelia growls, tossing her head dramatically. "I'm so tired of this! Why does she get away with everything?"
"Because she's little, Amelia," Mum replies, taking a deep breath, trying to regain her composure. "You need to be more understanding."
But before I can say anything, Isabella bursts into louder sobs, her face red with frustration. That's it. I can't stand by and watch any longer.
I march up to Isabella, picking her up from the couch and holding her tightly to my chest. She clings to me, her sobs subsiding as I stroke her hair. I look up at my mother and Amelia.
"Mum, Amelia," I say, my voice steady but firm. "SHUT UP!" I shout, my words echoing through the room.
They both fall silent, turning to stare at me. Amelia's face twists with disbelief, while my mother's expression softens, though a hint of frustration still lingers.
"Amelia," I continue, "not everything is about you. You're not the perfect child. People make mistakes." I look at my mother. "And mum, shouting never solves anything."
Amelia glares at me, her arms still crossed, but now with a touch of something else-maybe respect. She seems to think about what I said before speaking again.
"Mum always sides with you," she mutters under her breath, her scowl deepening.
"Um, no... She really doesn't," I reply, rolling my eyes, trying to diffuse the tension. "She just doesn't tolerate your tantrums, Amelia."
She scoffs, flicking her hair over her shoulder with a practiced movement. "Yeah, yeah. Whatever." She turns, swaying her hips as she exits the room with the same attitude that's both infuriating and somehow fascinating.
My mother walks over to me, taking Isabella from my arms with a soft, apologetic smile. She brushes a strand of hair behind her ear before speaking. "My apologies, Claudia," she says, her tone a little gentler now. "I'm lucky to have a problem solver in the house."
I nod but don't say anything, feeling a little awkward as she hugs Isabella close. Mum always has a way of making everything seem okay, even when it's not. Sometimes it drives me mad. I wish she would just admit that sometimes things aren't perfect in this house.
With a final wink, Mum waddles off to her room, likely to do something equally calm and composed, while I turn my attention back to Amelia's retreating figure.
"Claudia," I hear my father's voice suddenly, cutting through the air.
I look up to see him standing in the doorway, his tall frame casting a shadow across the room. He's dressed in his usual dark suit, a briefcase in hand. He doesn't look angry, but there's something in his expression that tells me this isn't just a casual conversation.
"I need to speak with you," he says, his voice commanding but not unkind.
I nod, setting down the now-quiet Isabella and following him out of the room. My father rarely calls me into his office for anything, so this must be serious. As I step into his office, I feel the familiar tension in my chest rise. The walls are lined with bookshelves, the windows giving a view of the sprawling estate beyond. But despite the luxury and grandeur, the office always feels a little cold to me.
"Take a seat," he says, gesturing to the leather chair in front of his desk. I sit down slowly, the leather creaking slightly beneath me, and lean back as he closes the door behind us. The room is silent for a moment as he gathers his thoughts.
"There is something important I need to discuss with you, Claudia," he finally says, his tone more serious now. "I need your undivided attention."
I nod, my fingers instinctively fiddling with the hem of my shirt. My father's business dealings are often the subject of these "important" discussions, but something about his tone today feels different. More weighty, somehow.
"I'm listening," I reply, my voice steady despite the unease gnawing at my stomach.
Zachary Danvers had everything he could ever want. He was successful, famous, wealthy, and surrounded by women, but there was something he lacked-a family. He'd watched other people with the ones they loved, the sense of belonging that he craved. He longed for the warmth of that connection, the bond that went deeper than anything his status or wealth could provide. Karina Hart, or Kari as her friends called her, was known as the best diagnostician in her field. She was sharp, intelligent, and respected, but behind her professional facade, she carried a heavy burden-a past she'd worked tirelessly to bury. No one truly knew the depths of her history, and she intended to keep it that way. The two found themselves at a lively party, laughter echoing around them as people danced and mingled. The air was thick with joy, and Zach couldn't help but be drawn to Kari's quiet beauty and grace. They spent the evening talking, laughing, and getting to know each other. The chemistry between them was undeniable, an unspoken connection that seemed to pull them together. But just as the night seemed perfect, Kari's phone buzzed, the screen lighting up with a single, cryptic message. Her face drained of color, her hand trembling as she stared at the words. "It's happening again." Zach noticed her sudden shift, the way her smile faltered. He took her hand, squeezing it gently, offering comfort she didn't even realize she needed. "What's wrong, Kari?" She hesitated, but the weight of her past was too heavy to ignore. "I have to go," she murmured, voice barely a whisper, but the panic was clear in her eyes. Zach didn't let go of her hand, his grip firm, determined to help her face whatever had come to haunt her. The night had taken a turn, and as Kari's past resurfaced, it wasn't just her future on the line. Zach knew that with the danger now circling, they were both at risk-her past had found them, and it would stop at nothing to tear them apart.
She was in love, after all this time. Or at least, she told herself that to convince herself. Kayla Summers, with her heart still a little broken, thought she had found in her new boyfriend, the discreet and caring sous-chef, the stability she had been seeking. Their relationship seemed perfect, like a peaceful dream. The idea of marriage was no longer just a formality, but a logical step, the inevitable next chapter of their story. But all of that came crashing down in an instant. The marriage license request, which should have been a simple step toward the future, was rejected without hesitation. "Sorry, ma'am, you're already married." The words echoed in her head like a thunderclap. How could she have forgotten that? How could she have ignored that part of her life? A part of her life she thought she had left behind. Daniel Hunt, the man she had vowed to marry, hadn't been around for too long. During his vacation in Las Vegas, he had married a beautiful woman-her-but after one night, he had left her alone. Since then, he had been absent, and their marriage seemed like a bad dream. But now, he was back, and he had a message to deliver. At her doorstep, Daniel looked at her intensely, his piercing gaze hiding a wealth of emotions. "Six months, Kayla. Six months with me, and then I'll sign the papers. Otherwise, you'll stay my wife, forever." These words hit Kayla like a slap. The choice seemed so simple, but in her heart, the sparks of an unspoken passion were already beginning to burn. She felt torn between the calm man she was about to marry and the billionaire, arrogant and insufferable, who had abandoned her... and who now seemed ready to claim her back.
Sasha Hamilton had always lived a life of luxury, never needing to worry about the intricacies of business or the weight of responsibility. At 24, she reveled in the freedom her father's wealth afforded her-a carefree existence of private jets, designer clothes, and extravagant parties. She had it all, and she didn't mind letting the world know it. However, her perfect world came crashing down the day her father, Garret Hamilton, summoned her into his office. "Christian Matheson," her father's voice was cold, his gaze as unyielding as ever. "You're going to marry him." The shock hit Sasha like a tidal wave. She had heard of Christian-27 years old, heir to a business empire that was now teetering on the edge of bankruptcy. It was the only reason Garret Hamilton had offered to help the Matheson family: an arranged marriage between their children, an alliance that would solidify Garret's hold over the rival company and bring Christian's family under his control. Christian, once known as a carefree playboy, now faced the devastating reality of his father's company crumbling. When Garret's proposal came, it seemed like the only lifeline left. Christian knew he had no choice but to agree, even if it meant marrying a woman who was nothing more than a pawn in his father's desperate game. Thrown together in a marriage neither wanted, Sasha and Christian were forced to navigate the minefield of their families' expectations, their own secrets, and the web of lies that entangled them. What started as a cold, calculated arrangement might turn into something neither of them ever expected.
There stood the most gorgeous man in Erica Ferguson's eyes, her groom, Arnold Binder. Tall, handsome, with a smile that could melt even the coldest heart, he had been the man of her dreams, or so she thought. The wedding had been nothing short of a fairy tale, and the love he had shown her before their vows had made her believe she was the luckiest woman alive. But then, the truth hit her like a tidal wave, shattering her illusions into pieces. Her world crumbled when she discovered that her husband had never loved her like he had claimed. All the sweet words, the tender gestures, were nothing more than a facade. Arnold had married her to please his grandmother, a cold business arrangement that meant nothing to him beyond obligation. The realization tore through Erica's heart like a knife, leaving her breathless, drowning in a sea of disbelief. Since that painful revelation, Erica's life had been nothing but a living hell. She had expected love, care, and partnership, but instead, she faced indifference and loneliness. Her husband, once the center of her world, now felt like a stranger. He never bothered to see her pain, nor did he try to comfort her. She was left to face it all alone. Erica, despite her strength, could feel herself slowly starting to break apart. The weight of betrayal was unbearable, and though she tried to hold onto the pieces of herself, they were slipping through her fingers like sand. She had always been strong, but even the strongest woman had her breaking point.
You are cordially invited to the wedding of two people. This wedding marks the union of two elite Greek-American families, an event as prestigious as it is feared. The eyes of the world will be on this ceremony, where luxury blends with tradition, and where smiles hide untold stories. It meets all the necessary requirements according to tradition. Greek, check. Wealthy, check. Status, check. Love? Eh, not really. The marriage of Christian Matheson and Sasha Hamilton is more than just a union. It is a strategic move, a carefully orchestrated family agreement, meant to preserve the honor and prosperity of both clans. Two opposing worlds collide here, united by blood ties and financial interests, but separated by secrets, grudges, and unspoken desires. Christian, heir to a dwindling fortune, and Sasha, the daughter of a ruthless magnate, never wanted this alliance. But under the pressure of their respective families, they had no choice but to bow to the demands of an age-old tradition. So, come see how two strangers, forced together by their families, handle the situation. How will they navigate this marriage of convenience while slowly discovering each other in a world where appearances reign, and every gesture, every word, can change everything? Will love come from this constraint, or will their story be marked by the weight of expectations? Only time will tell.
I knew it wasn't the case because I heard a deep, possessive voice say, "You're mine, chicken." At first, I wanted to yell at him for trying to steal my chicken, but as I realized who it was, I froze. He was talking to me. My eyes widened, and I almost choked as I stared at Izaiha, my soulmate. Right there, in the middle of our little argument over the last piece of chicken, such a ridiculous moment... and yet so me, I felt the awkwardness wash over me-a piece of chicken in my mouth, a wave of shame, and my eyes locked with his, so intense. But it was him, the son of the alpha wolf kings, my soulmate. Him, the prince of the pack, the one who seemed capable of conquering the world with a single glance. And I, Lainey Knight, daughter of the demon king and queen. This was no ordinary fate. This wasn't just a chance meeting. It was the bond the legends whispered about, the one that would unite the realms of demons and wolves. But I wasn't ready. Not yet. And yet, standing in front of him, I knew everything was about to change. Forever.
Elodie took a deep breath and knocked, the sound echoing in the quiet corridor. A moment of silence passed, broken only by the pounding of her heart. Finally, the door snicked open, revealing a surprised Dashiell. 'Can't you see the Do Not Disturb sign? We don't want-' His initial frown quickly morphed into confusion at the sight of his wife. 'What are you doing here?' he demanded. 'Your girlfriend invited me,' Elodie replied, her voice laced with icy calm. She tried to peer past him, but his broad frame blocked the view. A saccharine voice chimed in from within the room. 'Elodie? Oh dear, we didn't mean for you to find out this way. It's just that-' Elodie cut her short. 'Oh please, Selene. Spare me the fake apologies. You wouldn't have sent me all those texts if you didn't want me to know.' Dashiell shifted uncomfortably, his face a mask of annoyance. 'What texts?' Elodie stepped past him, taking in the luxurious suite with a sardonic smile. The king-sized bed, the scattered rose petals, the lingering scent of sex – it all painted a vivid picture of their betrayal. She looked up at Dashiell, her gaze unwavering. 'I want a divorce.' ****** Dashiell lived a life of luxury, surrounded by the best things money could buy. But when a car accident left him vulnerable, he met Elodie, a seemingly ordinary woman who nursed him back to health. Mistaking her for just another employee, Dashiell entered into a loveless marriage with her solely for convenience. However, fate had a different script in store. Elodie, the 'ordinary nurse,' held a secret more precious than any diamond: she was the sole heiress to Northstar, a vast and powerful enterprise. Unaware of her true identity, Dashiell cast her aside when his ex-girlfriend returned, leaving Elodie humiliated. But Elodie was not one to be easily broken. She shed the facade of the meek nurse, reclaiming her rightful inheritance and stepping into the role of Northstar's CEO. Now, the woman Dashiell discarded was the one holding the reins of power. As Elodie thrives in her new role, Dashiell is consumed by regret. He finally sees Elodie for the extraordinary woman she truly is, realising the depth of his mistake. But will his remorse be enough to win back the heart he so carelessly discarded?
Rachel used to think that her devotion would win Brian over one day, but she was proven wrong when his true love returned. Rachel had endured it all—from standing alone at the altar to dragging herself to the hospital for an emergency treatment. Everyone thought she was crazy to give up so much of herself for someone who didn’t return her feelings. But when Brian received news of Rachel’s terminal illness and realized she didn’t have long to live, he completely broke down. "I forbid you to die!" Rachel just smiled. She no longer needed him. "I will finally be free."
"Miss Brown, I am the butler here at your service," the butler replied. "My master wants to buy the baby in your belly." "What?!" Does that mean the abortion didn't take place? Did they kidnap her from the operating table just to buy the baby? But why her? "You..." Alice was about to ask a question, but the man in front of her calmly continued, as if he had expected her question, "You're pregnant with his child, and he needs a child. That's all I can tell you." Alice was forced to sign a surrogacy contract and eight months later gave birth to two healthy babies. Fortunately, the man was unaware of her daughter's existence. It wasn't until five years later that fate brought them together again...
Kara Martin was known as Miss Perfect. She was a beauty with good personality and successful career. Unfortunately, her life changed at one night. She was accused of adultery, losing her job, and abandoned by her fiance. The arrogant man who slept with her did not want to take responsibility. He even threatened to kill her if they met again. What's worse, Kara was pregnant with twins and she chose to give birth to them. Four and a half years later, Kara returned to work at a large company. As the secretary, she would frequently face their notorious CEO. Kara thought it wouldn't be a problem, but as it turned out ... the CEO was the father of the twins!
"I heard you're going to marry Marcelo. Is this perhaps your revenge against me? It's very laughable, Renee. That man can barely function." Her foster family, her cheating ex, everyone thought Renee was going to live in pure hell after getting married to a disabled and cruel man. She didn't know if anything good would ever come out of it after all, she had always thought it would be hard for anyone to love her but this cruel man with dark secrets is never going to grant her a divorce because she makes him forget how to breathe.
On the day of their wedding anniversary, Joshua's mistress drugged Alicia, and she ended up in a stranger's bed. In one night, Alicia lost her innocence, while Joshua's mistress carried his child in her womb. Heartbroken and humiliated, Alicia demanded a divorce, but Joshua saw it as yet another tantrum. When they finally parted ways, she went on to become a renowned artist, sought out and admired by everyone. Consumed by regret, Joshua darkened her doorstep in hopes of reconciliation, only to find her in the arms of a powerful tycoon. "Say hello to your sister-in-law."