Chapter 4 The Marriage

I sat there, weighing my options, as the silence between us stretched out like an endless canvas, waiting to be filled with the brushstrokes of my decision. Reject the offer, and I'd retain my freedom, but the ache within me would still linger, a constant reminder of the pain my ex and sister had inflicted. Accept the offer, and I'd get to exact my revenge on my sister, to show her that I wasn't the weak, vulnerable person she thought I was.

As I pondered, a slow smile spread across my face. What more could there be to gain from this arrangement? I'd get to live my life on my own terms, to use Dominic's name and resources to establish my business, and to rub it in my sister's face that I'd "upgraded" to a better man, a man she can't even stand close to, but only watch from afar. The thought sent a thrill through me, and I could almost taste the sweetness of victory.

I glanced at Dominic, who sat relaxed in his chair, his eyes fixed on me with an air of confidence. He knew what my answer would be, and I couldn't help but wonder what he saw in me that made him think I'd accept his proposal.

"I accept the offer," I said finally, my voice barely above a whisper.

Dominic's face lit up with a smile, and he pulled out a file from his briefcase. "Great," he said, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "Here's everything you need to know about the marriage. We'll have a court marriage today, and then a church wedding and reception a week from now. You'll meet with the wedding planner and fashion designer tomorrow to discuss the details."

I felt a jolt of surprise. "Today?" I repeated, my voice rising in alarm. "You want to get married today?"

Dominic nodded, his expression unyielding. "Any problem with that? We've already discussed the terms, and I see no reason to delay. You'll move into my house tomorrow, and my assistant will provide you with everything you need."

As he continued to outline the arrangements, I felt like I was losing control, like events were unfolding at a pace that left me breathless. But I pushed aside my doubts and focused on the prize. I was going to marry Dominic Ethan, and I was going to make the most of it.

The court marriage was a blur of activity, with Dominic's efficiency and charm smoothing out every wrinkle. As we signed the documents, I felt a sense of unreality wash over me. Was this really happening? Was I really marrying a stranger?

As we left the courthouse, Dominic turned to me and smiled. "Good day, Mrs. King," he said, his voice low and husky.

I smiled back, feeling a flutter in my chest. "Good day," I replied, trying to sound calm.

As I stepped out of the car and into my apartment, I felt a sense of exhaustion wash over me. It had been a long day, and I couldn't wait to collapse onto my couch.

But my peace was short-lived. As I reached for my phone, I saw my mother's name flashing on the screen, and I knew that my brief moment of tranquility was about to be shattered.

"Come home now, this instant," my mother yelled, her voice piercing through the phone.

I sighed, feeling a sense of dread wash over me. What had my sister lied about this time? And what would my mother say when she found out that I was married to Dominic King?

I hesitated for a moment, wondering if I should answer her call. But something inside me snapped. I wasn't going to let my mother dictate my life anymore. I wasn't going to let my sister's lies control me.

"I'll talk to you later, Mother," I said, my voice firm. "I have things to take care of right now."

As I ended the call, I felt a sense of liberation wash over me. I was taking control of my life, and I was going to make sure that no one ever hurt me again.

I walked over to the couch and collapsed onto it, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. It had been a long day, but it was just the beginning. I was married to Dominic King now, and I was going to make the most of it.

As I lay there, I couldn't help but wonder what the future held. Would I be able to make this marriage work? Would I be able to use Dominic's resources to establish my business and exact my revenge on my sister and ex? I mean what better revenge can you show a person other than getting married to the person your ex is chasing contract with and him finding out knowing you could prevent it from happening.

Only time would tell, but for now, I was content to bask in the glow of my newfound freedom. I was Mrs. King now, and I was going to make sure that everyone knew it.

The thought sent a thrill through me, and I couldn't help but smile. I was ready for whatever came next, armed with Dominic's name and resources. Bring it on, I thought, feeling a sense of determination wash over me.

As I drifted off to sleep, I knew that tomorrow would bring new challenges