Chapter 3 Your future wife will be visiting us tomorrow

Alton sat brooding in his car long after he arrived home, stewing over the manager's decision to pair him with his enemy, Marina. The thought of having to work closely with her troubled him deeply, casting a shadow over the news of his upcoming promotion to director of his father's company.

Despite his frustration, Alton had always maintained a relatively close relationship with his father, Harrison. Apart from voicing his dissatisfaction over the low-rank position his father had initially assigned him, he had abstained from complaining about his job, even about Marina, with whom he clashed almost daily. He had always looked forward to the day when he would ascend to the role of director and leave behind the struggle of his current position.

However, on this particular evening, Alton couldn't contain his frustration. As he entered his father's luxurious sitting room, where Harrison sat listening to the news, he felt the need to vent.

"Dad! I can't wait to become the director. There are so many things I want to change," Alton exclaimed, his tone tinged with bitterness.

Harrison, ever attentive to his son's concerns, leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Alton. "Tell me, son. What changes do you have in mind?" he inquired, noting the confidence with which Alton spoke, already assuming the mantle of directorship.

Alton hesitated for a moment before speaking, his frustration glaring. "Never mind, Dad. But there's this girl in the office who always gets on my nerves. I can't believe we've been paired together for a project. The manager is out of his mind," he grumbled, unable to meet his father's gaze.

Harrison chuckled lightly, taking a sip of his wine. "Ah, my boy. Don't tell me you're falling in love. Remember, you're getting married soon. Save all that love for your future wife," he advised a hint of amusement in his voice.

"Falling in love with that witch? If only you knew her, Dad. You'd understand. But never mind," Alton retorted, rising from his seat and retreating to his room. Harrison's interest weakened as he returned his focus to the news; his primary concern was Alton's impending marriage and eventual takeover of the family business.

*****

Marina arrived home earlier than usual; her mind was made up about marrying the elderly billionaire to lift her family out of poverty. She had already submitted her resignation letter at the supermarket where she worked her second job, a decision that filled her with both nervousness and determination. Now, as she entered her home, her face glowed with a combination of hope and anxiety.

Her grandmother, Tracy, looked up in surprise at the sound of the door opening. She had been expecting Marina's cousin, Frederick, whose relentless demands for repayment of a loan had cast a shadow over their lives.

"Marina, you're home early today. Is everything alright?" Tracy attempted to rise from the couch, but her legs gave out, nearly causing her to fall. Without hesitation, Marina rushed to her side, helping her grandmother sit upright.

"I'm sorry, grandmother. Soon, we'll be able to afford proper care for your leg. I've decided to marry the old billionaire. It's the best chance to change our lives," Marina declared, her voice saturated with determination as she settled beside Tracy, her hand gently supporting her grandmother's back.

Tracy's eyes widened in alarm. "You're ready for what, Marina? I don't want you to do something you don't want just to please me. Besides, your uncle came by earlier. I told him you weren't interested, and he left angrily, threatening to take drastic measures if we didn't pay him back soon. Frederick seemes to have forgotten that we're family," Tracy explained, her brow furrowed with worry.

"You already told him I'm not interested? Well, it's fine, grandmother. I'll handle it. I'll call him," Marina replied calmly, retrieving her bags from the floor. She rummaged through them, producing a few goodies for Tracy before excusing herself to change her clothes.

In her room, Marina wasted no time in dialing Frederick's number, her heart pounding in her chest as she waited for him to answer.

"Hi, Uncle Frederick. I hope you're doing well," Marina greeted him as soon as he picked up.

"I'm ready to marry the old billionaire you mentioned," she blurted out before Frederick could even respond, her words hanging in the air as she awaited his reaction.

"Oh, my darling Marina, you're making me so proud. I'll make sure to arrange something special for you. Get dressed in something beautiful; we're going to his house tomorrow!" Frederick exclaimed with genuine delight.

Frederick had been Harrison's employee for years, serving as the head of security in his home. Despite his humble position, he had developed a close relationship with Harrison, who treated him more like a friend than an employee.

When Harrison expressed his desire for a wife, Frederick had promised to find him a suitable match, unaware that Harrison intended the bride for his son, Alton. Harrison trusted Frederick implicitly, considering him a loyal and trustworthy member of his staff.

After ending the call with Marina, Frederick wasted no time in dialing Harrison's number.

"Good day, sir," Frederick greeted respectfully, standing at attention as he spoke, even though they were only speaking on the phone.

"Hey, Frederick. How are you? Any good news?" Harrison's voice came through in a friendly tone.

"Yes, sir. I just wanted to inform you that I'll be bringing the lady to visit you tomorrow so you can meet her," Frederick announced.

"Ah, that's wonderful news. Tomorrow's Saturday that works perfectly. Thank you, Frederick," Harrison responded appreciatively before ending the call.

Shortly after, Harrison called out to Alton, who entered the sitting room with a confident stride.

"I'm here, Dad," Alton announced, waiting for his father's instructions.

"Get ready, son. Your future wife will be visiting us tomorrow," Harrison informed him casually. Alton's reaction was alleviated; he didn't particularly care about the identity of the woman he was to marry. His primary concern was fulfilling his father's wishes so he could assume control of the family business.

"Alright, Dad," Alton replied indifferently, mentally preparing himself for the upcoming meeting.