CAPTURING THE WRONG HUSBAND

News *NOVA'S POV*

"Nora..." My mother's voice trembled slightly as she spoke. "Nova, there's something we need to tell you."

I frowned, confusion knitting my brow. "What do you mean? What's going on?"

"Dad" I called turning to look at him.

"What's mom talking about?"

My father reached across the table, taking my hand in his. "Nova, Nora... Nora's gone. She passed away."

***

*Earlier that day*

The airport was bustling with life, a sea of travelers moving in every direction. I navigated through the crowd, joy and excitement bubbling within me as I made my way to the baggage claim.

It had been too long since I was in London. I hadn't seen my family for years since I traveled out to study. I missed them so much, especially my twin sister Nora.

"I wonder how she would react to my coming back," I muttered to myself.

We hadn't spoken properly for three-plus years now. Nora had been distant too--distant, and it wasn't like her. She'd ignored my calls, responded to texts with one-word answers, and hadn't posted anything on social media for a long while. The last time we spoke she was angry that I couldn't make it to her wedding. I tried reaching out to her after that but she wouldn't respond and when I tried getting my parents, Albert and Lacy to intervene, they asked that I leave her be till she comes around herself. And she never did. It was as though she was cutting me out of her life. I was back now and I planned to make it up to her.

She was the only sibling I'd got, and I wasn't going to let my absence ruin our relationship. "I have to ask for her forgiveness," I thought to myself.

I spotted my suitcase and yanked it off the carousel, almost bouncing with anticipation as I headed outside. The air was thick with humidity, typical for this time of year, but even that couldn't dampen my spirits. I pulled out my phone and called for a cab, eager to get home as quickly as possible.

The ride home felt both familiar and strange. Buildings and streets I knew by heart, yet hadn't seen in years, passed by the window. My thoughts drifted to the times Nora and I spent on these very streets, back when everything seemed simpler. I couldn't wait to pick up where we'd left off, to laugh and talk like we used to.

When the cab finally pulled up in front of my parent's house, I practically jumped out, my suitcase dragging behind me as I made my way up the front steps. The house looked different. It had been remodeled, almost unrecognizable. It looked beautiful, but something felt wrong. It was almost as if the air was heavier, weighed down by something I couldn't quite place.

I pushed the door open to see my mom running around with the maid trying to prepare something to eat. She was stopped in her tracks at the sight of me.

"Nova!" She called, her eyes teary.

"Mom."

"My love, why didn't you call when you arrived at the airport?" She asked while hugging me.

"Your dad would have come pick you up," she added.

"you don't have to worry about that mom, I'm here now, plus I wanted my arrival to be a surprise."

"My lovely daughter I've missed you so so much," she said giving me another tight squeeze.

"I've missed you too Mom," and I hugged her back.

"Mom you're going to suffocate me," I said chuckling.

"Alright," she smiled.

"What about Dad, where is he?"

"He just stepped out to get something from the grocery store, he'll be back any moment now."

"Okay"

"Go freshen up, I've prepared a feast just for you my dear,"

"Run along, we wouldn't want the food going cold," She said heading for the kitchen.

I stood wondering if my room was in the same direction. My mom who guessed why I stood still asked the maid to direct me to my room.

No expense was spared in the new interior decoration of the house. Last I remembered, we were struggling financially, so I was surprised to see all these changes.

"Is there something they aren't telling me?" I muttered to myself.

I got into my room, which followed the same level of prestige as the rest of the house. As much as I was shocked I wasn't complaining. I couldn't deny the beauty of the place.

I dropped my luggage and took a shower. I threw on my change of clothes and put my long black hair in a ponytail.

Looking at the mirror I wondered if my sister and I still shared the same Petite body size, or if being married had changed her. But no matter how much she changed, the birthmark we both had behind our ears would forever be there.

I headed out for the dining area when I heard my dad's voice.

"Lacy dear," he called my mom.

"Where is my pumpkin pie?"

"Dear you're always loud," she said chuckling.

"She's just upstairs freshening up, she'll be down when she's done," she added.

I was happy at the sight of my parent's excitement.

"Dad."

"Pumpkin pie" he called with a wide smile.

He hugged me tightly. "Dad you and mom are acting like you'll never see me again," I said chuckling.

"No, why would you say that," my dad said nervously.

"Weird," I thought

"Your mom and I just missed you dearly, you were so busy with school and we didn't want to distract you from your studies." He said.

"you know the family business is depending on you," he added, giving me a wink.

"Dad don't say that there's Nora too."

"Let's go eat," he said smiling weirdly.

We made our way to the dining room, where the table was already set with an array of delicious dishes.

" I made sure to make your favorite dish."

"Thanks, Mom, I've missed a good home-cooked meal," I said smiling.

We chatted about my trip, the latest family news, and all the little things I had missed while I was away. It felt good, normal, and I found myself slipping easily into the rhythm of home life.

I noticed Nora's name wasn't mentioned in any of our conversations so I waited until the conversation hit a lull before bringing it up.

"So, where's Nora?" I asked, trying to keep my tone light. "I can't wait to see her. It's been way too long."

The moment the words left my mouth, I noticed a shift in the atmosphere. My mother's smile faltered, and my father set his fork down with a sigh. My heart skipped a beat, a cold sense of dread creeping in.

*Back To Present Time*

I felt a lump form in my heart as his words fled his lips. The words hung in the air, heavy and incomprehensible. For a moment, I couldn't process what he was saying.

Gone? How could she be gone? I had just been thinking about surprising her, about all the things we would do together now that I was home.

"Mom, please tell me what dad is saying isn't true," I said with tears falling from my eyes.

"Hunny, I wish he was lying too." Her eyes were red and puffy.

"It happened suddenly," my mother said, her voice breaking as she spoke. "We didn't know how to tell you."

I shook my head, refusing to believe it. "No... no, this can't be real. when did this happen? And why did no one tell me about it?"

"We didn't know how," my father repeated, his voice thick with emotion. "It's been three years," he said clenching his fists.

"was so sudden, Nova. None of us saw it coming."

"Three... three years and you both didn't bother to mention it"

"She just came visiting with some of her things, which was out of the blue and unlike her. She stayed for a couple of weeks and that was the last we heard from her." My mother said crying.

"She died in the hospital after her visit."

"We didn't want to distract you from your studies that's why we didn't say a thing," my father added.

"So my books were more important than my own sister, your daughter," I said raising my voice.

"I've lost my appetite."

"We are sorry Nova," my mother said with pleading eyes.

"Where are her things?" I asked hoping they would bring me closer to her.

"They're in the room beside yours."

I stormed off headed for Nora's room. I was going through her boxed things when I came across her diary. Only to be shocked that her death wasn't just because of her illness, but someone had a hand in it.

The Diary

*NOVA'S POV*

I sat on the edge of my bed, the soft light from the bedside lamp casting long shadows across the room. My fingers traced the cover of Nora's diary, worn and weathered from years of use. This was her most private world, a place where she could express everything that no one else could see, especially me. It was a world I was about to invade.

I opened the diary, flipping through the pages, feeling a strange mixture of grief and curiosity. But as I read, my breath caught in my throat. The last few entries were dark, filled with words and thoughts that were disturbing, and unsettling. There was something here, something I hadn't known, something that had been tearing her apart.

Her words painted a picture of her daily life, the mundane details of work, home, and social events. But beneath the surface, there was an undercurrent of sadness, a deep sense of loneliness. I had never imagined the extent of her unhappiness.

June 15th, 2011

Today was Nova's big day. She won the science fair-again. Mom and Dad were so proud, their faces glowing with pride as they showed her off to everyone. And me? I just stood there, in the background, like I always do. I don't blame Nova. It's not her fault she's the perfect daughter, the one who always makes them proud. But I can't help feeling invisible next to her. I tried to talk to them about my painting, but they were too busy celebrating Nova to even notice.

I wish I could be happy for her. I really do. But it's hard when I feel like I'm just a shadow, following her around, never really seen. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like if I were the only child.

September 1st, 2016

Nova got the scholarship to study abroad today. Dad was so proud of her, more than I've ever seen him. He practically beamed when he talked about how she'd take over Dwight-Materials one day. I'm happy for her, I really am, but it stings. What about me? It's like there's no room for me in his plans like I'm just another face in the crowd. No matter what I do, I'll never be as smart as Nova. I'll never be good enough for him.

January 10th, 2019

I got a job at Row-Construction today. It was supposed to be a big deal-my first real job after university, my first step into the real world. But when I told Mom and Dad, they barely said anything. Just a simple "congratulations" and that was it. Nova called me later, though. She was excited for me and wished she was around so we could grab dinner to celebrate. It was sweet of her, but it didn't make the emptiness I felt any less real.

July 5th, 2019

I met someone today. His name is Ron, and he works at Row-Construction too. It was like love at first sight-I know that sounds cliché, but it's true. He's tall, probably above 6ft, with blonde hair that's a little messy in the most attractive way. His eyes, though... they're this deep green, and when he looks at you, it's like he's stealing your soul. And his smile-it's the kind that makes your heart skip a beat. I can't believe I'm writing this, after bumping into him just once, but I haven't felt like this in... well, forever. I know it's just a crush, but a girl can dream, right?

October 17th, 2019

Dad called me into his office today. He looked so serious, and for a moment, I thought I was in trouble or something. But no, it was worse. He told me about an arranged marriage he had set up for me. An arranged marriage! I couldn't believe it. I've always known Dad was traditional, but this? It's like he doesn't care about what I want, who I am, or what my dreams are. He claimed it was beneficial to the family business.

October 20th, 2019

I found out who I'm supposed to marry today.

Who would have thought that the Rowland family heir my dad arranged for me to marry would be my super hot crush? Maybe this is fate? Maybe we're meant to be? I'm so confused. I don't know what to think or feel. But I'm excited.

February 4th, 2020

I called Nova today, hoping she was making preparations to come back for my wedding. But instead, she told me she wouldn't be able to attend. She's too busy with her studies abroad, too far away to make it back in time. I know she's doing important things, making our parents proud, especially Dad.

We argued. I couldn't help it. I told her how much it hurt that she wouldn't be there. My wedding is supposed to be the best day of my life. And an important day. I was finally going to make Dad proud and also marry the man I love. And I wanted Nova to see that too.

May 16th, 2020

I'm married now, and it's nothing like I imagined or hoped. Ron isn't the man I thought he was. He's cold, distant, and barely speaks to me unless it's necessary. And his mother-she's worse. She treats me like an intruder like I don't belong in this family. Only his Father treats me like a human. I try so hard to make things work, to make Ron see me, but it's like I'm invisible.

I can't go back home either. I don't want Dad to think I'm useless. I feel so alone.

November 19th, 2020

It's been months since the wedding, and I feel like I'm fading away, piece by piece. My illness has gotten a lot worse. I don't think I've got much time. I just wish Ron would show me some compassion. He barely acknowledges me at home. The silence between us is suffocating, and every day, I feel more like a stranger in my own house.

I found out where he spends most of his nights now. The Brass Lantern bar downtown. He doesn't know that I know, but I've heard the whispers. The bar is one of those upscale places, the kind that caters to the rich and powerful, a hidden spot where men go to unwind, away from their wives and their responsibilities.

He wouldn't even touch me. All he cares about is his childhood sweetheart. Her... why did it have to be her? She has yet again taken all the attention.

January 29th, 2021

I've been back home for a week. I don't know what possessed me to come back to this house. Maybe I thought being here would fix something inside me, and make me feel whole again. I don't think Mom and Dad even noticed I was ill.

Dad's been working late again, as always. He asked about Ron, but I could tell he wasn't really listening when I said things weren't good. And Mom is sick, I doubt she'll pay my problems any attention. All they care about is Nova.

If only Ron had loved me back, then maybe just maybe things might have been different.

January 29th was her last entry. I could see tear marks on the pages. "How could I not have noticed she felt this way?" I said clenching my chest. "And Ron... RON! I'll make sure you pay for every tear my sister shed because of you."

The Condition

*ASHER'S POV*

My morning was a whirlwind of back-to-back meetings with department heads. Each discussion was a battlefield where I dissected reports, challenged budgets, and made decisions that could mar or make the company. My office quickly turned into a war zone of papers, and phone calls, and I thrived in the middle of it all. My focus unwavering. Just as I was gearing up for another round of negotiations, Trevor knocked on my door. I looked up from my paperwork in his direction.

"Mr. Asher," he said, his voice steady. "Your father is on his way. He asked to see you immediately."

I frowned. "My father? What could be so important that he couldn't say on the phone?"

"He didn't specify, just that it was urgent."

"Alright, Trevor. Let him in when he arrives."

***

*An Hour Later*

"Asher," I heard my dad's voice call, breaking my focus.

"Dad, what brings you here on such short notice?"

"Can't I come to see how my son is faring?" He questioned.

"Of course you can," I said smiling at him. "But we both know that isn't why you're here," I added, giving a light laugh.

"You know me too well Asher," he chuckled.

"well I've come to talk to you about my decision on who my next successor would be," he added with a straight face.

"Being a responsible married man is a commendable thing, " he lectured, his tone carrying the weight of experience. He paced back and forth in my office, his hands clasped behind his back.

" I was younger than you when I married your mom and you've just turned twenty-eight," he added.

"But dad how does that have anything to do with running the business?" I challenged, frustration seeping through my voice.

" I've been doing just fine all these years. Where is all this coming from?"

"Asher," he called his voice firm, cutting through my protests. " you seem to take what I'm saying lightly"

"I'll have you know that I will only name you my heir when you're married."

"But Dad."

"The company is like a family and not just a business, and till you've grasped what it means to run a home you won't be fit to be my successor," he said, his voice unwavering.

"I love both you and your stepbrother. And I know you have proven yourself capable but that is not the only reason I'm considering you as my first choice" he added, his tone softer but no less resolute.

"So what other reason is there?" I asked

"Your mom Asher, we started this together and I promised her I would take good care of you before she died."

"Your stepbrother, Scott also has his eyes on your position, so just heed my advice, so when I name you as my heir no one will question my decision."

"Dad," I muttered.

"Even if you're opposed to my decision, do it for your mom," he said, his voice tinged with a plea before he left my office.

I sat alone in my office, my father's recent words echoing in my mind. He had left only moments ago, the door closing behind him. But his words hung heavy in the air. However, what stood out the most in all he said was when he brought Scott's name up.

"That sly fox and his mother" I muttered gritting my teeth in frustration.

"It would be over my dead body if I let those two get their way."

I needed to find a bride as soon as possible. "Trevor!" I called out for my assistant.

The door to my office opened, and Trevor walked in. His expression was carefully neutral, but I could tell he sensed the gravity of the situation as he stepped inside.

"Mr Asher."

"Have a seat," I said, gesturing to the chair across from my desk.

"I need you to handle a very important task for me, I have a lot riding on it and it needs to be accomplished as soon as possible."

Trevor's eyebrows arched in curiosity. "What exactly do you need me to do?"

I leaned forward, resting my elbows on the desk. "My father has made it clear that marriage is a condition for me to take over as his successor."

Trevor's eyebrows raised slightly. "You're serious?"

"Dead serious," I confirmed. "That's why I've called you here. I need you to find me a wife." my voice steady. "Not just any woman. I need someone who fits the image and can handle the responsibilities without causing any issues."

Trevor leaned back, his eyes narrowing slightly. "How am I supposed to do that? Women don't grow on trees."

"I don't know figure it out. Pay someone or something. What do you think I pay you for," I snapped.

And that's when it hit me. "What about Discreet Duos? Don't they offer services like this?"

"Yes but how sure are you they will deliver in such a short space of time?" He asked with a look of uncertainty.

"It's either that or nothing," I said sternly. "Just reach out to them and spare no expense."

Trevor made a call to the agency immediately our conversation was over, making sure to relay to them the kind of woman I was looking for.

After a few minutes, Trevor concluded his call with Discreet Duos. He looked up from his phone, a hint of relief in his eyes.

"So when would she be available?" I asked.

"They said you can meet her next week on Thursday, by 3 o'clock at the Royal Crest. All that needs to be done now is to draft the contract, and once she signs it, you both can proceed to sign the marriage certificate."

"Great. Trevor, I want you to handle everything. I don't have time for these matters."

My mind shifted to another pressing issue. "I want my focus to be solely on gaining the contract for the Grand Horizons Hotel. I can't have our competitor, Row-Construction beat us to the huge deal," I said sternly.

"Alright sir" he responded, taking note of my instructions.

"Inform me immediately she signs the contract, and we'll go get the marriage certificate right after," I added.

As Trevor left my office, I was left with the weight of the tasks ahead.

I had to bag the huge hotel contract and a wife to marry.