Country Bumpkin Marries Mister CEO

Chapter 1

The airport hummed with the gentle chatter of travelers, the occasional announcement echoing through the speakers, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting from the café. Riley Garrett rushed out of the bathroom, her long, dark hair bouncing behind her. She checked her watch for what felt like the hundredth time, worried she'd miss her driver.

As she hastened through the crowded terminal, her eyes fixed on the exit, she collided with a tall, imposing figure. Scalding hot coffee splattered everywhere, including the stranger's tailored suit.

"Oh no, I'm so sorry!" Riley exclaimed, mortified.

The stranger's piercing blue eyes narrowed, his chiseled features twisted in annoyance. "You should watch where you're going," he said curtly, his deep voice dripping with disdain.

Riley's cheeks flushed, but she refused to back down. "You could've watched where you were going too, you know. It's not all my fault."

The stranger's gaze lingered on her, his expression unreadable. For a moment, they simply stared at each other, the air thick with tension.

"Whatever," Riley muttered, turning to leave.

"Excuse me," the stranger called after her, his voice firm but controlled. "If I ever see you again, I'll make sure you regret your actions."

Riley spun around, her eyes flashing, but the stranger had already turned away, disappearing into the crowd.

Meanwhile, Atlas Norton watched Riley disappear into the crowd, his eyes lingering on the spot where she'd vanished. A scowl etched on his face, he muttered under his breath.

Later that day, Atlas sat in his office, discussing business with his best friend, Hunter Lund.

"I'm telling you, Atlas, you need to take a break," Hunter said, his voice laced with concern. "You've been working non-stop for months."

Atlas raised an eyebrow. "Someone has to keep Norton Industries afloat."

Just then, the door opened, and Jaxon Dale, Atlas's personal assistant, walked in.

"Atlas, I have some news," Jaxon said, his expression neutral. "Grace Lang has returned to the city."

Atlas's eyes narrowed. "What does she want?"

Jaxon hesitated before speaking. "She's requested that you pick her up from the airport. Charlotte Norton's instructions."

Atlas's jaw clenched. He had no desire to reconnect with his ex-girlfriend, especially after the way things ended between them.

"Jaxon, you pick her up instead," Atlas instructed, his voice firm.

Jaxon nodded and turned to leave.

"Jaxon?" Atlas called out.

"Yes, sir?"

"Make sure Grace understands that I'm not interested in rekindling anything."

Jaxon's expression remained neutral. "I'll make sure to pass on the message, sir."

As Jaxon left, Hunter spoke up.

"You know, Atlas, you can't avoid Grace forever."

Atlas's eyes flashed with annoyance. "I'm not avoiding her, Hunter. I just don't want to deal with her drama."

Hunter raised an eyebrow. "Drama?"

Atlas's expression turned grim. "You don't know the half of it, Hunter."

Riley, meanwhile, had arrived at her new apartment, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. She had just moved to the city, eager to start fresh after a painful past.

As she settled in, her best friend, Hazel Stewart, helped her unpack.

"Riley, I'm so glad you're back," Hazel said, her eyes shining with tears. "I've missed you so much."

Riley smiled, feeling a warmth in her heart. "I've missed you too, Hazel."

As they chatted and laughed, Riley began to feel a sense of belonging, like she was finally home.

But little did she know, her life was about to take a dramatic turn.

Her phone vibrated causing her conversation with Hazel to pause.

The long lasting bright light indicated an incoming call. The name Ethan was clear.

She was hesitant to answer but eventually did. His loving voice was so good that you would think he actually loved her. But Riley was no fool.

The same man who threw her out of the mansion five years ago couldn't possibly love her all of a sudden.

"Riley. My dear. Don't you miss your family? You didn't even come to the mansion when you returned."

Riley remained silent.

Ethan became clear on the fact that Riley understood his motive. He clearly wanted something.

"You are free to come over for dinner, aren't you?"

At first, Riley was uncomfortable with going back to the house which would bring back several hurtful memories. But on second thought, she wanted to know what exactly he wanted.

Though, she knew it was not going to please her.

"I'll be there."

Ethan's joy new no bounds when he heard this.

That evening, Riley arrived at the Garrett mansion, feeling a mix of nerves and apprehension.

She walked slowly to the front door made of sandal wood. Hurtful memories swerving in her head like the wind.

As Riley stepped into the Garrett mansion, memories of her mother's death flooded her mind. She remembered the day Evelyn Garrett fell from the stairs, the weight of her father's blame settled heavy in her chest. And The next day, the shameless man brought in his other family. They looked down on her every single day she became an outsider.

The dim yellow lights in the hallway cast an eerie glow, transporting Riley back to the night she was banished from her home. The memories came rushing back. The sound of her father's angry voice, the feel of the cold night air as she stood alone outside. Riley's mind recoiled at the memory of Zoey's desperate attempt to take her own life. The pain and guilt still lingered, a raw wound that Riley thought had long since healed.

As she entered the grand dining room, her eyes scanned the table, taking in the familiar faces. Her father, Ethan, beamed with pride, while her sister, Zoey, chatted with Isaac Farrell, Riley's ex-boyfriend.

Riley's heart skipped a beat as she took in the scene. Memories of that fateful night, five years ago, came flooding back. Valentine's Day, her and Isaac's one-year anniversary, and she'd caught him cheating on her with Zoey. The crying moans which escaped Zoey's lips and the heavy grunts from Isaac disgusted her.

The pain and betrayal still lingered, but Riley pushed the emotions aside, determined not to let it ruin her evening.

"Who are you?" Zoey Garrett was not able to recognize her younger sister. Confusion written all over her face.

Riley smirked, shaking her head negatively. Did she really not remember her?

Five years ago, Zoey always said that her appearance was unforgettable. All because she was fat and was easily bullied by others including her.

"Riley Garrett."

They were all stunned. This couldn't be Riley. Riley Garrett is an ugly fat girl. How can this be Riley?

The shock was palpable. Zoey tried to hide the shock on her face.

"Ha ha ha! You're either ridiculously confident or utterly delusional. Which one is it?" Isaac Farrell's tone was filled with intense mockery.

"Riley! My dear child! Come to your father." Ethan Garrett's voice was loud. It made the other two turn around in shock.

This is really Riley. How is this possible? She was impeccable without flaws. Her fair skin was so shiny and her curves were well defined. The long wavy blonde hair on her head sparkled like gemstones. It made her look like a doll. This Riley Garrett was slim and tall. She didn't look like someone from the countryside at all.

Zoey's eyes narrowed, her face twisting in a scowl as jealousy flared within her. She could feel her blood getting hotter. Meanwhile, Isaac Farrell's eyes widened in shock as he stared at Riley's transformed appearance. This beautiful doll-like woman standing in front of him was indeed his girlfriend, Riley. Suddenly, he started to feel a gush of regret.

Riley walked up to Ethan who had his arms wide open for a hug which she only reciprocated out of courtesy.

"It is good that you came. Let us have dinner then we can discuss." Ethan couldn't wait to drop the bombshell.

As they sat down to eat, Ethan cleared his throat, commanding everyone's attention. "Riley, sweetheart, I have some news to share," he said, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "You're going to be married."

Riley's jaw dropped. "What?!"

Ethan smiled. "Oliver Norton, the senior of the Norton family, has proposed an arrangement. Atlas will marry into our family, and you're the chosen one." Oliver Norton had approached him two days ago with this marriage proposal. Ethan was shocked to see the senior Norton in his own office. He had agreed to support GGC financially if his youngest daughter, Riley Garrett married his grandson. Ethan would never miss this opportunity. He quickly sent for the daughter he had abandoned for five years.

Riley's breath caught in her throat, her stomach twisting into a knot as his words slammed into her ears. "You can't be serious."

Yes, she did know Oliver Norton. She had once saved his life when she still lived in the countryside. Could it be that he was asking her hand because of this?

But Ethan's expression was dead serious. "I'm afraid it's already been arranged, Riley. You'll be meeting Atlas tomorrow to discuss the details."

Riley's world was spinning out of control. She was being forced into a marriage with a stranger, all to further her family's interests.

When Ethan called her to come back to Northdesh, he had said that their family company was going bankrupt. She now understood that Ethan was using her to save himself.

"I will not be getting married to a stranger, Ethan Garrett!"

Ethan Garrett's wife, Ruby Garrett had been keeping silent this whole time. But Riley's outburst only tempted her to speak. "Do you want your family to suffer then?! Think about your mother! She also worked hard to build GGC!"

Her words hit Riley Garrett like thunder.

But Riley could not stand these people for another second. She stormed out of the Garretts' mansion.

Chapter 2:

Riley stormed out of the Garrett mansion, the grand entrance doors slamming shut behind her. She didn't notice the figure following closely behind until she reached her car.

"Riley, wait!" Isaac called out, his voice laced with desperation.

Riley spun around, her eyes narrowing as she took in Isaac's pleading expression. "What do you want, Isaac?" she spat, her voice venomous.

Isaac took a step closer, his hands extended in a conciliatory gesture. "I want you back, Riley. I was stupid to let you go."

Riley's laughter was harsh and mocking. "You think I'd ever take you back after what you did?" She shook her head, her eyes blazing with anger. "You're unbelievable."

Isaac's face contorted in confusion. "What are you talking about?"

Riley's smile was cold and calculated. "Don't play dumb, Isaac. I saw you and Zoey that night. I saw you making love to my sister."

Isaac's eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, he seemed to forget how to breathe. Then, his face darkened, and he took a step closer to Riley. "That's not true," he lied, his voice low and menacing.

Riley didn't flinch. Instead, she let out a contemptuous snort. "Don't lie to me, Isaac. I saw you."

Isaac's face twisted in anger, and he grabbed Riley's left hand, his grip tightening like a vice. But Riley was prepared. With a swift motion, she landed a heavy slap on Isaac's face, the sound echoing through the night air.

Isaac stumbled backward, his grip on Riley's hand loosening. Riley took advantage of the momentary distraction to wrench her hand free. She turned and got into her car, locking the doors behind her.

As she started the engine and pulled away from the curb, Riley caught a glimpse of Zoey watching from the shadows, her eyes blazing with hatred. Riley shivered, despite the warmth of the summer evening.

She drove away from the mansion, leaving the darkness and the secrets behind. But she knew she couldn't outrun her past forever.

At the same time, Atlas, Hunter, and Jaxon stepped into the club, the pulsating music and dim lighting enveloping them. Hunter and Jaxon were immediately drawn to the seductive women dancing on stage, their eyes scanning the room with interest. Atlas, however, remained unimpressed, his gaze sweeping over the crowd with a mixture of disinterest and disdain.

This was their usual Friday night haunt, a place to unwind and forget the stresses of the week. Hunter, ever the playboy, didn't waste any time, inviting a stunning woman to his private room. Jaxon and Atlas exchanged a knowing look, shaking their heads at their friend's antics.

Unbeknownst to Atlas, a woman had been watching him from across the room, her eyes fixed on him with a calculating intensity. Grace Lang, his ex-girlfriend, had been waiting for the perfect moment to strike. She slipped a powder into Atlas's wine glass, her hands moving swiftly and unnoticed.

Seven years ago, Grace had broken up with Atlas, hoping to manipulate him into chasing after her. But Atlas had discovered her darkest secret: she had deliberately harmed herself to guilt-trip his mother, Charlotte Norton, into forcing Atlas to stay with her. Atlas had never loved Grace, and her desperate attempts to win him back only repulsed him.

Now, as Atlas downed his wine in frustration, he had no idea that he was playing right into Grace's hands. His mind was preoccupied with the arranged marriage his grandfather, Oliver Norton, had orchestrated. Atlas was convinced that his future wife, Riley Garrett, was just another scheming woman, manipulating his family for her own gain.

Riley, that same night, sat alone in a quiet corner, nursing her drink and refusing to dance with the numerous men who approached her. She saw right through their charming smiles and suggestive glances – they only wanted one thing. Riley wasn't interested. She had come to the club to escape the drama of her family and the shameless actions of her father.

Ethan's request for her to return to Northdesh still lingered in her mind, stirring up a mix of emotions. He expected her to marry a stranger, just to secure financial support from the man's family. The thought of losing her mother's legacy, GGC, was unbearable. It was her mother's sweat and blood, and Riley felt a deep sense of responsibility to protect it.

But, she couldn't shake off the feeling that she would be sacrificing her own freedom by giving in to her father's demands. She didn't want to be a slave to her father's whims and her stepfamily's expectations. The dilemma tore her apart.

As she pondered her next move, Riley downed her champagne, unaware that it had been laced with Viagra. Within minutes, she began to feel uneasy, hot, and disoriented. She looked around for the bathroom, desperate for some air.

Riley stumbled out of the crowded bar and into the quiet hallway, searching for a way out. Suddenly, someone grabbed her from behind, covering her mouth to stifle her screams. Isaac Farrell's sinister grin spread across his face as he thought he had finally succeeded in getting the woman he desired.

Atlas Norton stood alone, nursing his drink as Jaxon retreated to his private room. But Atlas's relaxation was short-lived. He began to feel a creeping sense of unease, his body temperature rising. He loosened his tie, desperate for air, but it brought no relief. His throat parched, his vision blurred.

Grace Lang watched from the shadows, a wicked smile spreading across her face. "Atlas, you're mine," she whispered to herself.

Atlas stumbled towards the balcony, seeking fresh air. Instead, he was met with a disturbing sight: two people making out in the darkness. "Do these people have no shame left?" he muttered, disgust etched on his face.

But as he turned to leave, he noticed the woman struggling to free herself.

Atlas's eyes narrowed, and his jaw clenched as he watched Riley struggle against Isaac. For a moment, he seemed to consider not getting involved. But then, with a swift motion, he strode towards the couple and flung Isaac away.

Isaac groaned, his body broken and battered.

Riley stumbled backward, gasping for breath. Atlas caught her by the elbow, steadying her and scooping her up over his shoulder. As he walked away, he sensed someone watching him. His vigilance on high alert, he quickened his pace.

Grace Lang trembled behind the curtain, recognizing the intensity in Atlas's gaze. She knew she had to hide, at least for now. Atlas had caught her scent, but he chose to ignore it, his focus on the woman he had just rescued.

Chapter 3

Atlas ushered the mysterious woman into his private room, uncertainty etched on his face. He tossed her onto the bed, intending to shower and clear his head. But as he turned to leave, the woman grasped his waist from behind, her hands sending shivers down his spine.

"I feel so hot," she whispered, her breath tickling his ear. "Mmm... You're cool. I need cool."

Atlas spun around, confusion written across his face. The woman's flushed cheeks and lust-filled eyes told him she was under the influence of something. He realized he was too – the room spun, and his senses blurred.

Despite his haze, Atlas retained a shred of sanity. He spoke softly, trying to calm her down. "Don't worry, I'll let you take a shower."

Riley's skin burned hotter at the sound of his deep, soothing voice. She lost all control, her body responding to his presence. As Atlas turned to leave again, Riley wrapped her leg around his waist, pressing her soft bosom against his bare back.

This time, Atlas's restraint snapped. He spun around, ripped her shirt apart, and slammed his lips against hers. The room dissolved into chaos as they succumbed to a night of senseless passion. Her Moans filled the air, fueling Atlas's desire.

In the heat of the moment, neither Atlas nor Riley recognized each other. The drugs had erased their memories, leaving only primal instincts.

Grace's hand trembled as she reached for the door handle. She hesitated, wondering if she should intrude on Atlas's private moment. But her curiosity got the better of her, and she slowly turned the handle.

As the door creaked open, Grace's eyes widened in shock. Atlas was fiercely passionate, his movements intense as he continuously slammed into the woman beneath him. Tears pricked at the corners of Grace's eyes, but she couldn't look away.

The woman's face was obscured, but Grace knew she wasn't her. A pang of jealousy shot through her chest, followed by regret. Why had she come here? Why had she thought she could just barge in on Atlas's life?

Grace slowly backed away, shutting the door with a soft click. She turned and fled, hot tears streaming down her face. She couldn't bear the thought of Atlas with someone else.

As she disappeared into the night, Grace couldn't shake off the feeling that she'd made a grave mistake.

In the morning, as the phone rang loudly, Riley's eyes snapped open. She felt a heavy weight on her back and tried to sit up, only to realize that someone was lying on top of her. Memories of the previous night flooded her mind, and her face burned with embarrassment.

Riley quickly grabbed a pillow and buried her face in it. Atlas stirred, opening his eyes. He thought her behavior was strange – she had seduced him, and now she was hiding her face?

Jaxon's voice came through the phone, "Mister Atlas, the senior Norton requests your presence at the villa." Atlas responded curtly, "Okay."

Riley's eyes widened as she realized who Atlas was. She had slept with her soon-to-be husband. She wished the ground would swallow her whole.

As she sprang to her feet, a sharp pain shot through her legs, and she yelped. Atlas turned her around, shock written on his face as he recognized the rude woman from the airport.

Riley shut her eyes, expecting a scolding, but instead, Atlas handed her a pack of pain relievers. She took a pill, and soon the pain subsided.

The brave Riley was now speechless. Atlas ignored her, walking into the bathroom to take a shower. When he emerged, Riley was dressing. His gaze lingered on her waistline, remembering how he had held onto it the night before.

Riley was about to leave when Atlas's stern voice stopped her. "Be careful next time." She was taken aback, but her anger quickly resurfaced. She left, slamming the door shut.

As she stormed out, she bumped into Hunter, who smiled knowingly. Riley thought to herself that losing her virginity to Atlas wasn't a significant loss, considering their impending marriage.

Riley stepped out of the club, her phone buzzing with an incoming message. She hesitated, her eyes scanning the screen. It was an invitation from Mr. Chiu, a lawyer, requesting her presence at the Norton Villa. Her mind racing, Riley recalled Atlas's earlier phone call. Wasn't this the same villa he had been summoned to? The thought sent a shiver down her spine. If she attended, Atlas would undoubtedly recognize her as his prospective bride. Still reeling from their embarrassing encounter, Riley opted to decline. She typed out a hasty response, citing illness as her excuse, before hurrying home.

Meanwhile, Hunter sauntered into Atlas's private room, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Your woman is indeed a fairy," he said, his tone laced with sarcasm. "Did you pay her?" Atlas's anger simmered just below the surface, but he kept his emotions in check. Something about Hunter's insinuation didn't sit right with him. The woman hadn't seemed like a prostitute... but what else could she have been doing in a place like that? His thoughts only fueled his growing irritation. "I'll pay later," he growled. Hunter nodded, but his next comment sent Atlas's anger boiling over. "For a first-timer, it's normal to crave more." Atlas's disgust was palpable. "Get out!" he barked. Hunter fled, laughing to himself as he exited the room.

Atlas arrived at the Norton family villa at noon, the grandeur of the estate a stark contrast to his turbulent mood. His mother, Charlotte, promptly accosted him, her voice shrill with hysteria.

"Son, you have to decline the marriage! Those people only want your money," she exclaimed, her grip on his arm tightening.

Atlas's irritation grew as he gently extricated his arm from her grasp. "If Grandfather wants this, why do you object?" he asked, his expression stern.

Charlotte's objections stemmed from her snobbish disdain for the Garrett family. Everyone knew the Garretts' younger daughter was ugly and fat – a fat, ugly country bumpkin. Charlotte couldn't bear the thought of presenting such a daughter-in-law to her social circle.

Dismissing his mother's tantrums, Atlas headed straight to Oliver Norton's study. The room was adorned with expensive artwork and lavish furnishings, the air thick with the scent of old books and leather. Oliver sat behind a massive desk crafted from rich, dark mahogany, its surface polished to a high sheen.

A document lay on the desk, awaiting Atlas's signature. He stared at the papers, needing no explanation. He was only doing this for his grandfather; otherwise, nothing could have persuaded him to accept this marriage proposal. With a flourish, he signed the documents, officially sealing his marriage to Riley Garrett.

"Where is she?" Atlas asked Mr. Chiu, noting the woman's absence.

Mr. Chiu swallowed hard, feeling pressured under Atlas's glare. "She's unwell."

Atlas scoffed. Surely, she wouldn't deign to attend. Such an ill-mannered woman! He thought, his disgust for Riley Garrett growing.

"I'm leaving," he declared, turning to depart.

Oliver Norton nodded, casting a warm smile at his grandson, which Atlas ignored. Oliver thought Atlas was simply upset for no reason, unaware that his grandson had never met Riley Garrett.