Arranged To Be His

Heira struggled to understand the words she had just heard. Tears streamed down her face, she shouted at the man standing before her.

"You can't be serious". She had hoped that her father, Charles Arven, was attempting a prank on her, but she knew that he was no man for cracking jokes.

She waited for him to smile, to soften, to explain, but he stood there unmoving, waiting for the weight of it to land.

"You can't just marry me off, I'm not some property to be traded," she yelled at him.

"Heira, this marriage is important to our family, it is the only way of getting back up after the backlash the company faced. Investors are on our necks and we are losing a lot of deals.

"Dante's family has exactly what we need, they are the most influential people in the city." he said calmly.

"This isn't a business deal!" she snapped.

Charles sighed heavily. "You are being selfish Heira, this isn't just about you, it's about our family and our future. You need to understand that".

"I don't care, and I won't be a part of this marriage," She screamed.

"It's already done," Charles said with a cold finality that told her there would be no negotiation . "You are to meet him at the registry office at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow." He turned and walked out without waiting for her response.

The Arven family was going bankrupt. The empire her father built began to fall apart after the company was accused of being involved in a financial fraud scheme.

Heira collapsed onto the soft mattress that had once provided her comfort. Eager to flee the unforgiving truth her father had forced upon her, she hid her face in the pillows.

Thinking back, Charles had always been a good father to Heira. Ever since her mother left, when the world felt colder, he had raised her with love. He was her protector and anchor. But now, he had changed out of desperation, placing the company above his own daughter.

She wiped her tears with the sleeve of the hoodie she had on. Reaching into its pocket, She pulled out her phone and made an attempt to call her best friend.

A snap memory of her and Ethan appeared on the screen, their bodies tilted towards each other with wide smiles on their faces. Her head gently rested on his shoulder while his arm securely wrapped her waist.

It was New Year's Eve, and they had gone out to celebrate under a breathtaking display of fireworks. They spent the evening discussing the upcoming year, talking about the changes they would make and vowing never to let a day go by without expressing how much they mattered.

All of it turned out to be lies, as the man she cherished had ended their relationship to pursue another woman. He didn't state a reason for his action, leaving her broken and devastated.

Remembering this put her in a really difficult place, her heart ached so badly as if she had just been stabbed through her chest.

"I need to get out of here," she whispered to herself as she dialed her phone.

"Come, let's go grab a drink," she said when Bethy answered from the other end of the line.

"Sure. I'll meet you there," Bethy replied with concern in her tone.

When Bethy got there, Heira had downed a bottle of wine. A few glasses were left on the table, and her eyes shone with both alcohol and tears.

"I have ordered a lot of bottles for us. We must finish them all. I need to forget about my worries."

Bethy's eyes widened as she was shocked to see her friend wallowing in tears, "What happened? Are you okay?" she asked, sliding into the seat beside her.

"I am being sold off by my own father," Heira said helplessly.

Bethy gaped. "What do you mean by that?"

Heira explained all that had happened earlier that day to her.

Bethy sympathized deeply with her friend. She had grown up knowing how much Charles adored his daughter. In high school, Heira's peers had even nicknamed her "Daddy's girl" because of his constant indulgence. Yet now, desperation has turned that love into a cruel bargain.

"This is ridiculous. You shouldn't be treated this way. Is your Dad out of his mind?

"You can't let it happen, Heira. We have to do something about it." Bethy said as she grabbed Heira's hands so firmly while staring deep into her eyes.

"Maybe my Dad is right that I should marry him, I've invested all my time and attention into Ethan, I gave him all the love I have to offer, and he still decided to ditch me for another woman."

Bethy shook her head sharply, her grip tightening. "Don't give up on love because of that nuisance. One day, you'll find someone who will value you and love you for who you are. Ethan was never that person.

"I am just really confused as to why your Dad would make such a decision for you."

"He probably thinks he can regain all that he's lost if he marries me off to the almighty billionaire," Heira muttered bitterly.

"And who is that?"

Dante Mo..." She stammers as she struggles to remember his name

"Moretti?" Bethy guessed as she completed the name she thinks her friend might be trying so hard to pronounce.

"Yes, you know him?"

"Of course, who doesn't?" Dante Moretti's name wasn't new to her, he is an accomplished billionaire in the city, which is why everyone knows him. Heira had studied abroad, and this is why she wasn't familiar with his name.

"He is the most influential man in the city," she exclaimed.

Heira appeared to be lost, so Bethy brought out her phone and searched the internet so she could show her friend.

Just then, a news headline pops up "Moretti Group records steady growth for fifth consecutive year". Dante's company is known for their annual outstanding achievements. Several companies in Chicago have tried but couldn't beat him in the game. This explains why he has remained top in the chart of grossing companies of all time.

Heira's eyes glowed. She couldn't help but let out a smile as she saw this, if she's been forced to marry, it might as well be the most influential billionaire.

This sounded like a win to her, although she couldn't help but wonder why he agreed to her father's proposal.

The faint hum of a ceiling fan could be heard as soft sunlight streamed through the floral curtains. Heira woke up, squinting at the brightness in the room, her head throbbing from the wine she had consumed the previous night. It took her a moment to remember where she was.

This wasn't her room.

She sat up slowly, trying to remember what had happened. The last thing she remembered was Bethy supporting her balance as they walked out of the bar.

The smell of fresh espresso lingered in the room, and her stomach gave a weak growl. She got out of the bedroom, still in the dress she wore last night, which smelled of wine.

She found Bethy in the kitchen, pouring two cups of coffee. Bethy looked like she had been up for a while. Her white blouse tucked into soft jeans, her hair brushed back neatly into a ponytail, and her cologne smelled fresh with a warm hint of vanilla.

"You're awake," Bethy said gently, sliding a steaming mug across the counter. "You look like you wrestled in your sleep."

Heira gave a weak laugh, wrapping her hands around the mug for warmth. "Feels like I lost, too."

Bethy had brought Heira to her apartment after she passed out in the cab the previous night. She couldn't risk taking her home where her father might see her drunk and heartbroken. Charles Arven would not have been understanding, and the last thing Heira needed was more conflict.

Before Bethy could respond, Heira's phone buzzed on the table. She stared at the screen and froze at the dozens of missed calls and messages she had received from her father.

Where are you?

Heira, this isn't the time for games.

If you've run off to avoid this marriage, you'll regret it.

Her throat tightened. She had forgotten about the registry office, but Charles, on the other hand, thought she'd eloped. She lifted her gaze to the clock on the wall. It was 9:12 a.m. already.

Bethy leaned over, skimming the notifications. "He thinks you ran."

Heira's chest heaved with a bitter laugh. "Maybe I should have." She sipped the coffee, its bitter taste doing little to settle her racing mind.

"But I didn't. And if I don't show up, I'm scared of what my father might do."

Bethy reached out and squeezed her hand. "Then show up on your terms. Not his."

Heira remembered the decision she made in her drunken state and planned to follow up on it. She didn't need any more time to deliberate.

The registry wasn't far, but time was slipping away, so she quickly got dressed and left.

She clutched the steering wheels as the registry office emerged. The moment she entered, she saw a man standing near the entrance. He looked smartly dressed in a tailored navy suit that fit like it had been made for him alone. He was tall and composed, giving off an aura of brilliance.

His gaze lifted as she walked closer, locking with hers. His eyes flickered from her face to the nervous way she clutched her bag.

"Heira Arven?"

"Yes." she nodded.

For a while, he simply studied her, and the silence stretched until her nerves felt like they might snap. Then, eventually, he let out a small grin.

"I was told you might not show," he said evenly. "Your father seemed... worried."

Despite her chest trembling, she straightened her shoulders. "Well, I'm here now."

Heira was aware that a few young women who were coming out of the registry room newly wedded, were casting glances at him.

It was normal to find a man attractive, but he wasn't an exception in any way. His cool features made him look more elegant and stunning. He's broad-shouldered, and with eyes of the colour of a warm amber.

The weight of the moment pressed down on her as the registry doors opened. And with that, Dante stretched out his hand, gesturing to the open doors. "Shall we?"

The registrar shuffled the stack of documents, adjusting his glasses as they both took their seat. "You'll each read and sign here... and here," he said in a steady voice, pushing the papers forward.

Heira's hand trembled slightly as she picked up the pen to sign.

Dante leaned toward her as he observed, his words came out low so only she could hear. "You don't want to be here."

"You don't either," she mumbled, refusing to look at him directly.

She noticed the tiniest smirk formed on his lips. "True, but at least one of us has something to gain."

Her eyes lifted up quickly startled by his bluntness. "And what do you gain from marrying a stranger forced into this?"

His gaze lingered on her for a while before he answered softly, "Not everything is about love, Heira. Sometimes, it's about power and keeping it, and that is what your father has been trying to make you understand."

The registrar cleared his throat, oblivious to the undertone between them. "Please, Miss Arven, sign here."

Heira swallowed hard as she signed the paper, and Dante didn't hesitate to do the same.

The registrar gathered the documents and stamped them with a loud thud.

Five minutes later, the certificates were issued. "Congratulations. The marriage is now official."

Without hesitation, Dante turned and faced her. "Here's my card key. You can move into the house when you're ready. I have something to attend to, so I will be leaving now," he placed it in her hands and left without waiting for her response.

Heira took a taxi directly to the Arven family's house. At that time, Charles Arven had already gone to work.

She went into her room to pack her belongings. Not long enough did she hear a knock on the door.

"Come in," she called out.

Eliana, their housekeeper, slightly opened the room door, poking her head in, "I figured you might need some help".

"Yes, please," she answered affirmingly.

Eliana has been a mother figure to Heira. She has raised her since she was little. Her loyalty has helped her build trust with the family, and they have given her the responsibility to take charge of the house.

They packed up her suitcases and dropped them in the car.

Just when she was about to leave. Eliana held her hands, lifted her gaze to her, and smiled, "I pray your new home will be good to you," she said, fighting back tears.

Her voice carried grief, gratitude, and love all at once. This is the farthest Heira would ever be from home, except when she traveled for studies, and she was surely going to miss her.

***

Heira took a deep breath as she arrived at the Moretti villa. She used the card key Dante gave her earlier that day to gain access into the building.

A woman dressed in a blue uniform with an apron welcomed her as she made her way inside. The woman looked like she was in her mid-forties, her expression softened when her eyes landed on Heira.

"You must be Mrs. Moretti," she said warmly. "Welcome. I'm Mrs. Collins, the housekeeper."

The title felt new to her. And the realisation that she had just gotten married became crystal clear.

She was greeted respectfully by two other household staff that came behind Mrs. Collins.

Heira gave a small nod, replying as politely as she could. "It's nice to meet you all."

Mrs. Collins's smile grew kind. "Mr. Moretti made mention of your arrival. Please come with me so I can show you to your room."

The sound of that didn't settle well with Heira, she had expected to share a room with Dante, just as most couples do.

"Our room, you mean," she corrected softly. Mrs. Collins smiled, avoiding the answer to the question as she reached for Heira's suitcase.

Heira's eyes wandered through the huge house as they walked through the hallways.

The spacious living room was decorated in shades of gray and dark wood, with soft sofas and a fireplace that seemed more for style than for warmth. The whole space looks extremely beautiful, but it definitely needed the warmth of a feminine touch to make it a home.

Mrs. Collins noticed Heira casting glances around the house. "That's Mr. Moretti. He likes everything in order." Then, lowering her voice, she added, "But don't worry, dear. A home should feel lived in. Give it time."

Her kindness took some of the edge off Heira's chest.

When they arrived at the bedroom, Heira paused at the entrance, and was drawn to the large, immaculately made bed. She was clearly exhausted after a hard day.

Mrs. Collins set her suitcase down gently. "You must be tired after today. I'll have something light prepared for you in the kitchen. Would you like tea?"

"Yes, please," Heira replied softly.

Mrs. Collins nodded affirmingly and left her to settle in. Heira then realized that she hadn't responded to any of Bethy's messages. A few minutes before, she had contacted her to know how the registration went.

She picked up her phone and dialed her best friend's number.

"Hi bestie, how did it go?" Bethy's voice sounded from the other end of the line.

Heira informed her about everything that went on, including the registry's office, and that she had already moved into Dante's house.

"Wow, so just like that, you are married to Dante. Who would have thought! You, my friend, are indeed lucky."

Just then, Mrs. Collins came into the room holding a cup of tea and some muffins. She placed it on her bedside table and left the room quietly.

"I can't believe you snitched on me after we both promised to get married at the same time," she said lowly.

"Come on, my dear friend, we both know that wouldn't be possible with the kind of guys you keep dating." Heira chuckled.

"So now you're throwing shades at me."

"No dear, just stating the obvious truth," she said, defending herself.

Don't worry, I have decided to take relationships seriously now. I just met someone on Date n' Love, he is such a handsome guy with the hottest body. I look forward to our date together, and I know he is the man for me."

A round of laughter followed a short silence that was formed after Bethy spoke. The two girls laughed so hard as they struggled to catch their breath.

Bethy had always claimed that for every relationship she's been in, but they never seemed to last due to her lack of tolerance.

Her last relationship ended after the guy kept forgetting little details about her, such as her birthdays and their anniversaries.

Nonetheless, Bethy never seems bothered as she believes in living life to the fullest. Her standards are set high, and she wouldn't budge for anyone.

"Yes, I know I say that for every man I've dated, but you have to trust me on this one." Bethy managed to speak through broken laughter.

"Okay, my friend, I believe you," Heira gave a sarcastic response.

After the phone call ended, Heira munched on her meal to satisfy her growling stomach. Not long did, she became drowsy and lay on the bed to take a nap.

By the time she woke up from her sleep, Dante had gotten back from work. She overheard some staff talking about his arrival.

Her legs weakened for a while as she stepped outside her room. Then, she began to wander around the house so she could get familiar with it.

She took a trip along the hallways. Captivated by the paintings lined on the wall, she made a stop as her eyes lingered on the Brushstrokes, noticing how each line seemed alive, as though the painter had left behind pieces of their heartbeat on the canvas.

The mesmerizing art made her wonder if Dante had chosen it himself or if some interior designer had filled these walls without his say.

As she moved further, she noticed one of the rooms was left open. Heira curiously stepped in as she made her discovery.

Inside was a king-sized bed with neatly spread sheets that stood in the center. There were a few framed photographs that hinted that it was Dante's room.

But he was nowhere to be found. As she began to look through the room, her eyes spotted a novel sitted on a shelf. Intrigued by it, she started to flip through the pages.

"Why are you here?" a baritone voice came from behind her.

Dante had just stepped out of the shower, undressed. However, he had a towel loosely knotted around his waist, droplets from his damp hair slid down his sharply defined chin, all the way down to his chest, tracing the lines across his torso.

Dazed by the sight, her gaze slowly moved downward, following the motion of the droplets.

It was anticipated that he had a nice build, but she did not expect such an amazing physique.

His chest was broad, firm, the kind of chest that looked like it could shield her from all troubles in the world. The ridges of his stomach were so clearly defined, with each catching the light as water slid over them.

"And why are you staring?" his voice suddenly rang in her ears.

She gathered herself as she glanced at the man, who looked rather pissed, waiting for the answers to his questions.

"Huh... I stumbled here. I didn't know this was your room."

"You didn't know or didn't care?" he asked with a brow arched.

Heira was perplexed at his reaction, does he always throw questions at people?

"Well, I care enough to know we should be sharing a room since we are married," Heira replied, a little defensively.

Even though she didn't choose to be with him, she believed she had the right to be by his side always, now that she's his other half.

Dante took slow steps towards her, his eyes locked with hers, his perfectly built body still on display as he didn't bother to reach for a shirt. The walk felt appealing to her rather than intimidating.

Heira could feel her heart thudding with each step he took. He stopped right in front of her, close enough that she could smell the musk scent of his soap, and the warmth of his body brushed against her skin.

Feeling her heart race with nervousness. A light flutter stirred in her belly; there was no denying the effect he had on her.

His voice came low and steady. "You really want to share a room with me, Heira?" His eyes didn't leave hers.

She managed to blink while holding his gaze. "Isn't that what married couples do?"

For a while longer, they both looked into each other's eyes like they were searching for the answers to their questions.

He placed his hand on her face, his fingers slowly moving unto her lips as he moved closer to her so much that they could both smell each others breath.

Her heart began to flutter as every inch of her leaned closer without her realizing. "That is what loving couples do, not us." He said pulling away from her.

"Do not feel entitled to anything here. You are only here to pay the price your family owes me. Get that into your head and leave!" He said, pointing to the door.

Heira flared up at his arrogance. What sort of a cruel man is he? She couldn't stand the thought of being talked down to, let alone being owned by a man.

Slam! She slammed the door shut behind her with annoyance.

"What a spoilt brat!" Dante snapped.

Heira's mind pondered all through the night. Her father hadn't informed her about the price Dante mentioned.

"Will I become one of his staff?" She thought to herself

Despite his rudeness, Dante was still a decent gentleman. His charismatic appearance swayed her, and she knew there was more to him than the cold front he showed. She could feel it in the way his eyes lingered on her when he thought she wouldn't notice.

So she made up her mind to warm her way into his heart even if it wouldn't come easy.

Nevertheless, her mind did not seem capable of recovering from how he spoke to her.

***

As the morning revealed itself. Dante was about to leave for work when Heira quickly appeared from her room with her bag.

"Dante, can you give me a lift? I'm heading to work as well," she said as she tried to catch up with him.

"You can take another car in the driveway," He replied, paying very little attention to her.

"Please hubby, if it's too much trouble, you can just drop me off at the subway station instead." She hooked her arm with his, wanting every opportunity to get closer to him.

Dante refused her, but she wouldn't let go of his arm. However, he eventually nodded upon considering how adamant she is. Also, time was slipping away, and he didn't want to get to work late.

The ride seemed longer than usual because of the loud silence between them. Dante's face was fierce as he avoided any form of conversation. Heira attempted to break the silence, but every word she rehearsed in her head sounded clumsy. So she just sat there, stealing quick looks at him.

She continued to enjoy the peaceful ride until the car came to a halt at the subway station. Dante had told the driver to stop while she was lost in her thoughts.

"Off you go," he said, facing her.

She became speechless, not expecting him to take her word for it, the barest minimum he could've done was drop her off at the office.

"Thanks hubby," she said, forcing a smile on her face. She knew Dante didn't like to be called that, he had frowned at her moments back for calling him hubby, but she didn't plan to stop.

The second she stepped out, the car sped away before she could say something else.

While suppressing her disappointment, she was happy to have succeeded at getting a ride from him.

"It only gets better," she murmured.

Fifteen minutes later, she arrived at the company. Since returning from her studies abroad, she had been working as an executive director in the Arven company.

However, she had barely settled into her office when Sebastian, the senior human relations officer, came in with a folder in his hand, and an expression that instantly made her feel tense.

"I thought you should hear this from me before the official memo goes out," he placed the folder on her desk as he continued.

"The board has decided to reassign your position in the company to someone else."

Heira's throat clenched at what she just heard.

"Why?" she questioned unbelievably.

"I'm sorry, I don't know their reason for doing this."

"Did my father agree to this?"

"He gave the order," Sebastian said, giving a sympathetic nod.