Beyond Riches

"Oh my God, I'm having a headache,"

We still have a lot of work to do before the fashion show next week.

"Ma'am, I spoke with Mr. Derrick, and he promised to deliver everything on time."

Matilda, my secretary, glanced at me, and I could see drops of sweat running down her cheeks. Not one of us slept well that night. I feel sorry for myself and everyone. I become so stressed out by sleepless nights that there are moments when I want to purchase a cabin in a village and become a cowboy.

Mr. Derrick is the best; therefore, that's why I hired him. What is he doing today, though? On schedule? This is the ideal moment. What's the matter with him?" I attempted to massage my temples, but the headache persisted. Despite coming from a wealthy family, I started this business at such a young age and built it entirely on my own. I was therefore never able to enjoy what other girls did. I just worked and became anxious.

I may have dated a few men, but I was never in love. I had no doubt that I would live out my days with a cat by my side.

"Oh ma'am, today your dad contacted me and said he has a problem in his business and would like it if you could help."

"I have no idea how to handle issues pertaining to hotels. I'm already busy with my own stuff; doesn't he realize that?" I pointed to the piles of documents arranged on my desk.

"But-" Why is everyone these days trying to make me angry?

Before her babbling gave me further headaches, I stopped her with my raised hand.

She served as both my secretary and a close friend. She put in a lot of work and liked everything to be immaculate. Though I really appreciate it, it occasionally bothers me.

"Okay, okay, I'll give him a call." I gave up in surrender.

What? Dad, nah! Why would I marry a stranger?" I was furious at the moment.

"I should have told you about this sooner. The Dante group and the director board hope to have a bright future together. I'm aware that I'm making you perform this task. Still, you are aware of the risk. The AAJ group is currently unstable. Simply act if your spouse isn't there and focus on your own task."

I laughed cynically, "Wow, I can't believe you just said that." "And you are in charge of the AAJ group, dad. But why does the director board continuously put pressure on you? I am aware that you did not choose this. One day, you'll have to confront them."

I'm aware. I know." Dad let out a deep sigh. However, I'm also acting in your best interest. This is going to be advantageous to you alone. "The director and I" As his voice became stronger, I was interrupted.

"Furthermore, you were aware that this would occur eventually. From the day you joined the company, you were aware that the AAJ would arrange your marriage. It might be any day of the week or today. That is the cost incurred by each and every AAJ member.

"That's because AAJ is the only group in the States with an ancient mindset." I gave an eye roll.

"Valencia" sounded like he was frustrated, and I could tell. "You've said yes to this multiple times in the last few days, but you act as though you've never heard of it. Why not?

Okay, give up. And I'll wed him. You don't have to annoy me by saying the same thing repeatedly."

"And every time, you manage to forget it. You can file for divorce from him once the AAJ group settles down more. Simply give it a try." My father seemed to be telling me to try on a dress and swap it out when I got bored.

"Anyway, I'm too busy, and I'm busy right now, so even if I marry him, I won't worry about his existence. I ended the phone before he could respond, so bye.

I turned to face Matilda as she shouted out to me, "Ma'am". "We have invited the Montero family, the AAJ group, and the Dante group to the fashion show. They'll invest in our new product; I'm sure of it." But wait, the Dante group? It implied that I would shortly meet my future husband. If he has bad intentions, this is a fantastic opportunity to let him know that I don't give a damn. He was all I needed to fight the poisonous AAJ organization. That concluded it.

I was nervously massaging my hands. I've participated in a lot of fashion shows before, but this one stood out. Our plan to launch a global chain of new stores is expected to draw interest from potential investors.

I wore a white jumpsuit without a back, big hoops for earrings, and little makeup for the occasion. My 5'8" height has always suited my physique, and it looks great on me now.

"Ma'am, you ought to go speak with the guests right now. Cindy will be delivering the welcome address shortly.

Alright. My palms are perspiring, ugh. "How can I give a handshake?"

Matilda giggled at my nervousness. "Kiss them" and "I'll fire you" were my words as I laughed and moved forward.

"Oh my, look at you! Accompany me.

I saw my dad and Mr. Philip among the individuals my mom had dragged me to. Adorably, there was a man standing next to Mr. Philip. I was staring at his toned form beneath the white dress shirt when my mouth began to water. His captivating emerald eyes gleamed from under his towering dark hair. I caught a glimpse of my model, observing him from the corner of my eye. I squinted, and they seemed scared and swiftly turned away.

"Mr. Philip, here is my daughter, Valencia."

"Valencia, this is Mr. Philip, head of the Dante group, and this is his son, Kelvin Philip."

My father squinted his eyes and told me not to laugh.

Thus, I acted. I grimaced.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed my mother making a face. Kelvin averted his gaze and squinted. Fortunately, Mr. Philip was unaware of my impolite gesture.

This will be Kelvin's future bride. Isn't she adorable and gorgeous? Since she's my daughter-in-law, I already like her. So competent. "Observe this runway show; it serves as live evidence," Kelvin said, feigning a smile at his father. "I need to attend to a call," he said, quickly getting up to leave.

I turned to go find my investors after watching him leave in order to distract myself from this marriage.

As I was speaking with a group of individuals, my mom looked like a chicken on fire as she ran to me.

"The wedding is next week!" She gave a happy squeak.

"What the fuck!"

You are an unappreciative kid. I'm overjoyed. Mr. Philip expressed his admiration for you today and expressed his desire to start working with us sooner. Thus, we both agreed to get married next week."

"Well done, mama. I'm glad you two are getting married. Mom scowled and gave me a backsmack before turning to leave. Poor dad.

I laughed and looked toward the stage, where Cindy was catching everyone's attention with a throat clearing. "Gentlemen and ladies. Would you kindly sit down?" Please accept my gratitude for being here. The event will begin shortly, but first our chief designer, Mr. Tim Adam, would like to provide a little introduction. The fashion show began with music from the 1960s, following Mr. Adam's address. The 1960s hippy look was the theme for today, and Rex Industries never let me down. The first models inside were the women, dressed in boots, bandanas, and flared jeans. The male models were equally attractive, if not more so.

I sensed that someone was looking at me. I turned to face his opposite and noticed my so-called future spouse frowning as he stared at me.

I rolled my eyes and went back to watching the show.

When it was all over, Matilda gave me the best news she had heard in a long time. "Madam, a huge number of people have already purchased stock in our business. We will have twice as much wealth. She was jumping around, and I was crying and yelling with her.

" I'll buy everything for you."

"That's so sweet, but a raise in the salary would be enough." Before someone arrived and destroyed the moment, we were both laughing.

"Sister!" My brother hopped over to me. "Your man looks hot, but not as hot as me." He was joking.

Even though he was two years older than me, he was twenty-six and acting so juvenile. When my mother informed me that Kelvin and Andrew were the same age, I prayed to God that he wasn't, since I am unable to wed a child. Despite his lively and humorous nature, Andrew was a highly serious and responsible man in the business world. He and my dad co-run the AAJ group. If only his brain contained more neurons, he would have been a sibling I could be proud of.

"Go away!" I mocked.

"You know that he's been shooting daggers at you with his eyes."

"Yes, I did observe," Matilda said, glaring at Andrew before turning to face me. "Madam, Kelvin Philip mentioned wanting to speak with you."

"So?"

"He wanted you to come outside"

I sneered. "How absurd is that? Instruct him to come talk to me if he wants to." My brother gave me the thumbs up, laughed, and turned to leave. I lost all control over my rage since I was so mad at this forced union. For business purposes, the majority of the CEOs employed by the conglomerate AAJ were coerced into these unions. Despite the fact that we were all members of the favored class in society, we lacked free will. As a result, I was more upset with the director board than with Kelvin, who was desperate to be at the top of my list of people I detested right now.

I looked around and saw an enraged Kelvin riding in my direction. I thought his face would break in two because of how firmly he was gritting his teeth.

"Oh my goodness, you are so annoying." He growled.

"Did you just come here to say that to me?"

"No, I came here to tell you not to get attached to me because I will never love you or anything like that, even though I am getting married to you." All you are in my life is a disruption. After you marry me, take care of yourself.

If it's feasible, let's avoid talking at all."

Was I supposed to be ill with love or something?

"Are you stupid? How on earth could I become attached to you? I have no time to pet a wild dog because I'm so busy. "Goodbye!"

I waved at him as I turned to leave, winking.

I looked over, and I saw that he was looking astonished. I guess he doesn't get turned down all that frequently.

He has no idea what he's about to embark on. I'm a rolling stone that can't be stopped.

My hand wrapped around my dad's as I walked down the aisle in my bridal gown. The day I had been dreading came to pass. My eyes were blinded by the flashing lights as the reporters captured my horrible reality on camera.

Not even the media, my friends, or my business partners realized that this was a forced marriage. The only person I knew was my best friend, who was now touring the globe, and I wanted her to join me at all times.

I was one of the numerous people whom the AAJ coerced into business unions. I foolishly believed that being a member of the main family would grant me immunity from their fury, but I was unable to do so. The Kenneth family would no longer be the dominant family if I gave in.

I'm a businesswoman in addition to being a woman, I understood the significance of this marriage to both the Kenneth's and to me. So even though I detested it, I had to do this.

I went with my head lowered, trying to come up with reasons why this marriage should be justified.

My father cleared his throat, signaling for me to raise my gaze to my beloved future spouse.

With his broad shoulders, black hair, and green eyes, he appeared angelic as he stood there dressed in a black suit. It was immediately apparent that the guy had a fantastic body. Not that it piqued my curiosity.

After my father handed Kelvin my hand, I ascended the stairs to address the priest. He spoke endlessly, but I ignored everything he said. I was itching to leave this place. Earlier, I wasn't a fan of this marriage. However, as it was happening, I was experiencing greater anxiety than before. Angrily, Kelvin cleared his throat and squinted. I turned to discover that I had everyone's attention.

"Valencia Kenneth, do you take this man to be your husband?" The priest inquired once more. "Uhh, I do"

I then sensed a hand being touched.

When I looked down and saw it was Kelvin, I scowled. He raised my hand, and, as if he were repulsed at the idea of touching me, he hurriedly placed a diamond ring on my finger.

Taking his band from the ring bearer, I rolled my eyes and jammed it into his finger. Joyful?

I sneered at the priest, and Kelvin followed suit, saying, "Now you may kiss the bride." He groaned and closed his eyes, then turned back to face me.

Instead of embarrassing me on our wedding day by ignoring what the priest said, he leaned in and kissed my lips. For a split second, I was stunned to hear applause and cheers from everyone in the vicinity.

We strolled to the car to go to the reception following the ceremony. I felt like I could hear my heart pumping blood into my veins for the whole awkward and silent drive.

When we arrived at the reception, I was relieved, but Kelvin left the car without helping me with the dress.

Fantastic.

Numerous reporters stood outside the door, extending their cameras to capture additional images to supplement their collection. A few people were asking pointed questions about our connection, to which I had no desire to respond.

Kelvin also recognized that things would get chaotic if he left me behind. With a frown on his face, he took a few back steps and extended out his hand.

I hurried out and put on a smile, standing next to him with my arm around his.

I murmured to Kelvin, "You are so ugly when you frown," and he grew even more scowling in response.

He glared at me from one side to the other and pulled me inside, nearly tripping and falling multiple times.

He let go of my hand as we reached inside and thrust his into his coat pockets.

Oh, my God. I shook my head and turned to face forward, only to be mesmerized by what I saw.

There was a massive water fountain in the center of the garden that was shooting water at a heart-pounding pace out of its head. Light pink rose petals adorned the cobblestone surrounding the fountain, and vibrant bouquets of roses were affixed to the sides of tables covered in silk attire. The greenery hanging from the ceiling was adorned with a dazzling brightness thanks to the lit candles placed around the tables.

Kelvin, please come. Dad hurried over to us and pulled Kelvin over to my relatives, who were gathered around the buffet. "Meet my siblings."

"A good dad." I seem foolish standing here right now.

The minutes flew by as I spoke with a few of my business associates and noticed someone heading out of the building.

Looking closer, I narrowed my eyes and saw it was none other than Kelvin Philip. I hurried up to him after apologizing.

"Are you leaving?" Ignored by him.

"The nuptials have not ended. I cried out in terror, "Don't you dare leave me here to be embarrassed."

However, a mellow tune began to play in the background before he could flee. My aunt waved her hand and said, "You two come here," at which point everyone turned to face us predictably.

She called out in a rushed tone, "Come and dance."

With a sigh, Kelvin pulled me onto the dance floor.

He waited for me to keep my hand on his shoulder while maintaining another grimace on his face.

We didn't look at each other as we moved to the beat. He was clearly frustrated, as I could tell. Who said I wasn't, then? I wish to leave this place immediately.

"Very irritating," he muttered.

I shot back, getting a glare in return. "I know the feeling."

We spent a few hours with the guests after the dance before leaving for the car.

Given that we were strangers and that we would soon be going on a business trip with Montero's, we decided against having a honeymoon. This would be the first time in action because the marriage was arranged in advance to oppose competing parties in future economic transactions.

I spent the entire car ride staring out the window since it was once again perfectly silent. Kelvin didn't even look up from where he was staring at his phone. After a lengthy drive, we eventually boarded the Dante family's private jet. Kelvin sat in the far corner as I lost myself in the TV's pointless programming.

He repeatedly gave me irritated glances, and every time he met my gaze, his lips curled into a frown.

We were both aware that since our business competitors would also be staying at the hotel, we would have to share a room.

"Miss, get up." The aircraft has touched down." The air hostess gave me a few shakes.

I wiped my eyes and took a leisurely glance around. My eyebrows knitted in confusion because Kelvin had vanished from view.

"Where is Kelvin?"

"He left?" "Has Mr. Philip already left?"

"Yes, ma'am. I can't believe that. Another car will be arriving to take you up. It was worse than I had imagined.

I changed out of my bridal gown and into slacks and a red tank top before I got off the jet.

I arrived at a massive hotel with a view of the sea via the car. The hotel's walls were illuminated with a golden glow by tiny yellow light bulbs that flickered at the sides of the palm trees that lined the entryway.

Your bags will be delivered to your room, Miss. Please accompany me. I'll lead the way to your room. Mr. Philip has already begun to wait."

I went to my room after the hotel personnel. When I opened it, I saw Mr. Rude seated at the table, working on his laptop. I let out a sigh and took one of my already-arrived bags to the restroom.

I took a deep breath in front of the mirror, readying myself for the future I would be living in.

"Okay, let's get started. Phew. What he says and does doesn't really matter.

Never speak with him again. Let's get started!"

I satisfied myself with a nod of the head and changed into relaxed slacks and a t-shirt. With my chin raised, I sauntered out of the room to see Mr. Rude typing on his phone while laying in bed.

"Who said that you could sleep on the bed?" I suppose there was no longer any choice but to stop talking.

"Who said I couldn't?"

"Where the hell am I supposed to sleep if you sleep on the bed?"

It's an issue with you. I'm not bothered.

He spoke without once taking his eyes off his phone.

I shifted my gaze from the bed to the couch. I would never sleep on a couch. My priceless backbone

"I'm not going to sleep on the couch, never. Don't be that guy!"

He gave me room to sleep, rolling his eyelids and moving.

I crawled under the sheets and wrapped myself up. I was so exhausted that I nodded off right away.

The sound of a phone ringing startled me. My eyes were too heavy, and I was too bored to open them. The bed was quite cozy. I was curious as to how they got the bed to feel so warm that it seemed to be radiating heat in front of me. I concluded that the pillow I was embracing was most likely the cause. But why does it seem like I'm getting a hug back from the pillow? So strange.

The phone began to ring once again.

Someone moaned in annoyance, "Uh". Specifically, a voice that is manly. That was who? I was positive I didn't sound like a choking horse. When I opened my eyes, I saw a dashing face just in front of me, partially obscured by the setting sun.

I was giving Kelvin a waist-hugging hug in return. I couldn't get out of the sheets entangled around our legs unless he moved.

My eyes seemed to be bursting from their sockets. Kelvin opened his eyes simultaneously, mimicking my response.

We scooted to the two ends of the bed in an instant. The phone started ringing again, and I appreciated it for taking my attention away from the events of a few seconds ago.

His eyebrows shot up as he turned to face the ringing phone. My phone had been buzzing all along until I turned to look at what he was staring at.

When I swiftly snatched it up, I saw that my bothersome brother had called me at the crack of dawn.

"Hello Andrew, why are you calling me so early in the morning?" I muttered to my sibling.

"Why?" Do you have hip pain?

"WHAT?"

His laughter could be heard on

the other end.

"Well, I called to tell you a surprise."

"Your ex is here, Jason."

I hastily changed into my clothes and headed downstairs to wait for Kelvin. Andrew was waiting for me on the third floor as I descended.

"Why is that jerk in this place?" With clenched teeth, I let out a hiss.

"The Montero's accompanied him." But I thought he left for England to work in his father's company, the person said, recalling that Mr. Dickson Montero is his uncle.

"His mother came back to Montero's after divorcing Mr. Matteo."

"They split up." Have you been hiding from the world?" Andrew piqued his face.

Is it a hereditary trait to palm our faces? How in the hell does everyone continue to do that? My least favorite ex was Jason. He was a worthless trash can that was undeserving of anyone's affection.

When I was dating him, my friends and family had warned me multiple times, but I was gullible enough to believe them.

I begged God multiple times to keep Jason from making a scene here.

"Hey guys!" As soon as the elevator opened, Jason greeted us. Seeing him with his untidy blonde hair standing in front of us made me feel depressed. I would say that he was attractive, but right now I find him repulsive.

"Treat him nicely. The contract with Montero's is required. Andrew leaned closer to whisper.

"Treat him nicely? Are you crazy? Again, I whispered.

With a tentative "Uhmm-let's go get breakfast." Jason noticed our eye roll and gave us an uncomfortable smile. We walked past him into the dining hall without exchanging any more words.

Jason's mother, Monica Montero, was seated with Chris Montero, the son of Mr. Dickson Montero, and his sister, Daniella. The Davis' family was placed across from the Montero family, consisting of Clark Davis and his spouse Clara.

My brother and I took a seat close to Clara, while Jason, disappointed, took a seat next to Andrew.

"Dear, good morning! We apologize for Dickson's absence. He's participating in an online conference and will be joining us later in the evening. Monica grinned broadly, almost completely.

"Valencia, where is your husband?" Daniella gave a wink.

"Who?"

When Andrew kicked me from under the table, I screamed in agony, drawing stares from others nearby.

Actually, I completely forgot about him. "Uhm, he was tired, so I didn't want to bother him." He was an impostor husband, and my father made it very obvious that I could file a divorce from him whenever our group stabilized. I therefore had no reason to advance our relationship.

"Well, Kelvin, good morning. Chris glanced over my shoulder and beckoned Kelvin, who had a frown that was making his face split, to come have some food.

As I saw him, my eyes grew wide.

Kelvin is hot, for real. An Adonis is pure.

He had on beige jeans and a white shirt. His unkempt hair nearly obscured his intense emerald eyes. I studied him for a while, staring, until he gave me a glance that annoyed me. Thankfully, he didn't notice that my cheeks had turned red.

When breakfast was served, he took the lead at the table. "Hey Kelvin, you look the same as when I saw you last. "The last time was amazing," Daniella said, and Kelvin grinned back.

How come? He grinned? With her? It was unexpected.

What the hell does that mean, because last time was great? Did they succeed? I didn't want someone like Daniella to cling to him, even though this was all a lie. My mind was racing with questions, and I could feel my knuckles getting more tightly wound around the silver cutlery.

"Hey, babe, you want more salad?" Jason gestured toward the salad by his side.

If he had called me baby, I would have been furious, but given the situation, I smiled broadly.

"Yes, thank you," Kelvin said, glancing briefly at Jason before lowering his head to convey his lack of concern.

I called Matilda from our room's balcony after breakfast to find out how things were going in the company. That was obviously a mistake, though, because all she could do was inquire about my marriage, which, given that Kelvin knew Daniella, wasn't going too well. I don't mind if he's friendly with another girl; after all, I detest infidelity. But that's a big, fat no-this is Daniella.

I caught a glimpse of Kelvin entering through the corner of my eye, wearing a pout on his face.

I said to Matilda, "I have to go now. Bye."

"Bye, ma'am, and tell me more about your Mr. Hottie later." Knowing that I wouldn't agree with the word "your," she laughed. "I adore you, ma'am," I grinned. "I also love you. "Goodbye." I turned to see Kelvin giving me a disdainful look. With a dejected shake of his head, he took out his laptop and sat on the bed.

Did he really-I snorted? Did he truly believe that I was unfaithful to him?

I returned to the room after tucking the phone into my jeans. Kelvin gave me a hateful expression as he gazed up at me. "What you do with your soldiers is irrelevant to me. But make sure nobody else finds out so you don't ruin my reputation. "My God," I laughed cynically. Kevin's lips curled into a frown. "Well, husband, I hate to break it to you, but the world doesn't revolve around you." I stepped up against the bed and crossed my arms. "Tell me, have I done something to you?"

Kelvin remained silent.

I grinned. That's my initial thought. You're merely taking my frustrations as your own. Find someone else to do it, please. Better work is ahead of me. "I'm leaving now; good bye." I waved to him before leaving through the door.

I went for a stroll on the beach and enjoyed the quiet.

"Hey!" I was wandering along the beach in solitude when Jason had to interrupt and spoil the scene.

"Jason, what are you doing here?"

Here? I came to see you," he said, giving me a look that made it clear. "No, I mean here as on this business trip," I stated, making it quite evident that I was irritated by the eye roll.

Well, I've made the decision to become a Montero. "My father and I never got along; therefore, it's likely that he will give my cousin his business."

"Hmm," I said, keeping my head down so as not to carry on the conversation with him.

"So how are you doing?"

Whoa, Jason I will not do that. After you cheated on me, how are you doing?" I rolled my eyes at the situation.

"You know I was inebriated at the party," he said, appearing to feel guilty as he glanced down at his feet. But I had more sense. I was aware that he dated me in order to prove to his father that he was competent at managing the business. I reasoned that I could ignore those feelings and work on improving him as a person to genuinely love me and not view me as a commercial venture. But regrettably, he had an affair with me before that.

"Now that I'm married, it doesn't matter if you apologize or not." I raised my hand and gave him a ring finger.

How on earth are you able to love that piece of wood? Is he even speaking?

Indeed, he does! "Valencia, now mind your own business," he said, grabbing my arm.

"Hello! Release me!" I shouted, trying to get my arm free.

"Just listen, I still want you, okay?"

"Give me up!" I pulled back on my arm.

"Valencia," he said, squeezing my wrist and causing bruises. He extended his force, and I whimpered in agony.

From the corner of my eye, I noticed Kelvin approaching and said, "Let go of her." My cheeks heated with embarrassment-not from being harassed, but from Kelvin, whom I had just laughed at-coming to my aid.

"Kelvin, what? You're not even interested in her. It's really clear." It doesn't imply that she isn't my spouse. Please remove your bloody hand from her now. Kelvin had a grim expression.

When he released his grip on my arm, Kelvin grabbed my hand and pulled me back into the room.

With a clang, he shut the door and turned to face me, his eyes flashing with terrible hatred.

"I told you not to act recklessly and ruin everything." I avoided going to see Jason. He approached me: "In an attempt to support my argument, I crossed my arms in front of my chest.

Whatever you do, don't make a disturbance and think I'll come to your rescue. Come with me to supper. After removing his phone from the table, Kelvin left.

And before you leave, take care of your wrist. He said, "Don't make me look bad," and walked away, leaving me in agony.

With a pout of frustration, I threw on some white slacks and covered my wounded wrists with a long-sleeve floral top.

Together with him, I entered the elevator. We didn't speak at all while eating supper together. Andrew was seated on my left, and Kelvin on my right. I sat down in front of Jason. He was staring at me, but I decided to ignore him.

As he glanced between us, Andrew sensed the tension.

He murmured in my ear, "Explain to me later." I nodded to him slowly. Following our meal, we returned to our room. I brought my pillow to the couch after changing since I didn't want to face Kelvin.

After giving me a long okay, Kelvin fell asleep on the bed.

"I want to divorce him, oh my."