Chapter 4 The Cage with Silk Walls

Just like the plan, we got married, but not in a church or in a grand wedding like I had always dreamed. It was simple, quiet. He said nothing-just stared at me with that unsettling, intense gaze that made me uncomfortable.

His parents weren't even there. Did they even care? Their son was getting married, and they weren't present. But that wasn't something I could dwell on. Niccolo wanted me to move into his mansion immediately.

I was even more surprised when I entered the room to find that all my things were gone. But the biggest shock came when I saw Hunter sitting on my bed.

I gasped and immediately started to sob. I opened my arms wide, welcoming him, and he ran into my hug. I smiled as he came toward me.

"Hunter! I missed you so much!" I cried, kissing his furry head. He had grown so big.

He barked at me, trying to hug back. I chuckled and attempted to pick him up, but he was too heavy now.

"Hunter! How are you? Are you okay now? I'm so glad you're back with me at last."

Just looking at him made me happy. His white fur was so clean and soft. Hunter, my four-year-old Siberian Husky, was pure joy and comfort.

I smiled sadly as I looked at him.

"Do you want to come with me? I won't be living here anymore, Hunter. I'll be somewhere else. Come with me so I won't be lonely," I whispered. He barked, as if understanding. I smiled and nodded.

"Good boy." My smile faded when I remembered I needed permission first. I had to ask the owner of the mansion.

"For now, Reed will take care of you. You won't be alone. You'll make friends there, Hunter."

I headed toward Niccolo Vasquez's mansion. I gasped as I looked up at the enormous estate. I exhaled in relief. Surely, we wouldn't see each other often-it was far bigger than our own home.

The household staff greeted me warmly. Their smiles were wide, eager, and polite. I simply smiled and nodded.

"It's nice to see you, Madame! We're happy you're finally here!" they said enthusiastically.

"We are your household staff. We're ready to serve you," another said cheerfully.

"They're so beautiful... no wonder Niccolo loves her so much-"

I lost attention from the two whispering staff when someone appeared in front of me.

"Good to see you, Madame. May we show you to your room?" I nodded.

I thought, maybe it's not so bad here. At least Mom and Dad aren't around to constantly correct me. As for Niccolo... I didn't know. I hoped he didn't care about me and would just ignore me. That would make things easier. After all, we're only married because of business.

As we entered my room, I was astonished. It was huge-more like a master bedroom than a regular guest room.

But then I noticed the design. It screamed masculine. The grey color palette, the scent in the air-it smelled like a man lived here.

I turned to the maid. "Is this really my room? Maybe my room is somewhere else; this doesn't seem like mine."

She shook her head. "No, Madame. This is your room."

"Are you sure? Where is Sir's room?" I asked, still scanning the space. The bed looked very comfortable. I ran my hand over it.

"I'm sure, Madame. Sir's room is here too, with you," she answered.

My eyes widened. "What? This room is his?" She nodded, looking down.

"Yes. That's the order, Madame. Your belongings are neatly arranged in your walk-in closet."

I sighed and turned to her. "This is not my room. I want a different room-you're mistaken-"

"They're not."

I froze and turned to see Niccolo Vasquez entering.

"You will sleep here, in my room. In our room," he said.

I noticed the tiredness in his eyes.

He looked at the maid, who nodded and left the room. My eyes widened. I wanted to stop them. I didn't want to be alone with him. I started to walk out, but he blocked me. He towered over me, so close I could feel his presence pressing down on me.

"Where are you going, huh?"

"To another room," I said. He sighed and shook his head.

"You will sleep here," he said firmly, as if there was no room for discussion.

"But that's uncomfortable," I tried to protest.

"You mean you'll be uncomfortable?" he asked gently. His eyes were soft and tender now, a stark contrast to the man I had met before. But even though his expression was gentle, he was still terrifying-so big, so strong. He could hurt me with ease if he wanted.

I didn't respond. This wasn't my decision to make. This was his property, and I was just a tenant. Complaining would be pointless.

Why did we even have to share a room? I thought I'd have a peaceful stay here. Damn it.

"I'm sure you'll be uncomfortable too," I muttered.

"I won't. I'll be even more comfortable with you than alone in this huge room." My forehead furrowed. This wasn't good.

The small distance between us disappeared. He was now dangerously close. My gaze met his broad chest. My eyes widened as I felt his large hands on my waist, caressing me.

I stiffened at his warm touch. He smelled my hair, leaned close. I tried to push him away, but he was too strong. He trapped me in his arms.

What the heck is wrong with this guy? He's creeping me out.

"Finally," I heard him whisper softly near my ear. Thank goodness someone knocked on the door at that moment. It was my chance to escape. I heard him curse under his breath.

I bolted from the room immediately. He was making me seriously uncomfortable. I glanced at the maids waiting outside.

"Dinner is ready, Madame. Please, have a seat," one said.

"Where's your husband, Madame?" she suddenly asked. I choked on my juice at the words.

Other maids rushed over to serve me, but I raised my hand. "I'm okay. You can leave now."

"Alright, Madame. I'll just call Sir."

I sighed. I never imagined I'd eat with him. I thought I wouldn't have to share a table with him because he's always busy. Everyone said he was a workaholic. Maybe today was the only day he would be here.

Just today.