sprang from; it was as if the resentment I had harboured towards him since childhood empowered me. He remained still for a moment before walking towards the door. However

re together, I feign affection for him, though I never allow him to touch me. We host numerous parties on our yacht. On the day of our engagement, Mum confiscated all my cards and handed them over to Luis. His fath

has done thus far, we will encounter no issues. He inhabits his world, and I mine. Our mothers have taken it upon themselves to organi

My grandparents voice their objections, disapproving of the marriage, particularly aware of Luis's potential for cruelty. Nevertheless, I have endeavoured to assure them that he has reformed and that he treats me well. I put on my most conv

to suit her tastes. A seemingly interminable veil was selected by my mother-in-law, who also insisted on a tiara and a bouquet brimming with natural flowers, daisies inc

th a new bouquet composed of orchids, which do not trigger my allergies and are, in my opinion, far more exquisite. My grandmother is the sole person who harbours any excitement about this wedding. She embraced me and

his voice insistent. "Bella, we still have time. You can run away

oftly, "in three years I'll be f

wn creasing his brow. "Aren't you in love with

"but please don't say or do anything

s. "If it's for a family alliance and not because you truly love him, I can't cond

I want to do something for Dad so that they can't blame me

he countered firmly. "Let h

ed, "I need your support i

hat good-for-nothing Luis gives you the slightest trouble, yo

dpa," I affirmed ear

d regards me with profound seriousness. Then he inquires, "Are you truly doing this, Isabella, becaus

ad, that's w

ertain, my

will be fine; don't fr

he entrance. Will I manage to refuse? "No," I remind myself, "Mother told me that Father is in dire straits,

its with a feigned display of emotion. Everyone is convinced by his act. The events

t being alone in this vast city instils a modicum of trepidation. For the initial two days, I confine myself to the hotel; on the third day, I muster the courage to venture out to a ne

se gifts for the family, his annoyance palpable. Ultimately, he left me wi

a series of frustrated slams that drew the attention of those

amiss, Luis?

u do me a favour

what you need," I respo

nomy class? I'd like to sit with

as astonishing! Yet, recognising his earnestness, I collect

by the window,"

in this part of the plane and was relieved at the thought of avoiding ten insufferable hours in his company. As I settled into my seat, I noticed a st

nior, took the seat next to mine and greeted me with a friendly smile. My response was a slight nod of the head, an unspoken signal of my disinte

e an excuse for his absence to our parents, should they be awaiting our arrival at our new home. Upon landing and retrieving the luggage he had neglected, I was

the taxis vanished one by one. Exhausted, I contemplated calling my grandfather to fetch me, but then I reconsi

o me. Assuming he required direc

ou?" I enquired politely

It's on your way; I can offer you

xi," I declined, taking a step away from the car. A

he exclaimed. "I'm acquainted with your grandparents. My parents are friends w