From Duty To Desire

The grand ballroom of the luxurious Majestic Hotel was a sight to behold. Crystal Chandeliers, their facets glinting like diamonds,hung from the ceiling, casting a kaleidoscope of colours across the room. Lavish drapery,in a rich ivory hue, adorned the walls, and intricate floral arrangements, featuring rare and exotic blooms, decorated the tables.

The atmosphere was opulent,yet tense. Brittany, resplendent in a lace gown that seemed to shimmer in the light,stood at the altar,her eyes fixed on the floor. Her hair,a rich chestnut hue,cascaded down her back like a waterfall, and her makeup was flawless, accentuating her porcelain skin. Ethan, dashing in a black tuxedo, stood beside her, his jaw clenched and his dark blue eyes narrowed resentfully under his brows.

Their parents, beaming with pride,sat in the front row, unaware of the unease between their children. They had been the brain behind this ARRANGED MARRIAGE,as Brittany had always called it. They hadn't thought about the aftermath of everything, they hadn't for once stop to think about their feelings,her outraged mind cried.

Gregory, Ethan's best friend watched with a somber expression. He had been his childhood friend and their bond waxed stronger as they grew. He knew his friend was not ready for marriage but there was nothing he could do to salvage him from the situation he found himself.

Dora watched with a mixture of excitement and concern. She was Brittany's maid of honor and was her personal assistant in her office. They shared secrets and soon became best of friends.

The priest chants, the ritual unfold, and they exchange vows. But Brittany's heart isn't in it. She's going through the motions, trapped in a union that feels like a prison sentence.

As they exchange the sacred garland, Ethan's fingers brush against hers. It's a fleeting touch, but it sends a shiver down her spine. She feels a sense of dread,a sense of uncertainty. What does the future hold for them?

The reception that followed was a lavish affair, with champagne flowing like water, and a live band playing a selection of classical and contemporary music. The guests,a mix of friends, family, and acquaintances,mingled and chatted, their faces a blur of smiles and polite conversation.

Brittany and Ethan barely spoke, their communications limited to forced smiles and fake laughters. They danced a waltz, their movements stiff and awkward, their eyes fixed on some point beyond the crowd.

As the ceremony ends, their parents embrace them, beaming with pride.

"Congratulations, Brittany!" Brittany's mother exclaims, tears in her eyes. "You're now part of an amazing family".

Ethan's father claps him on the back ."My son, you've made me proud. Brittany, welcome to our family".

Brittany forced a smile, feeling like a puppet on strings. They took photos, exchanged gifts and went through the motions of a wedding celebration. But Brittany's heart was heavy,her mind racing with thoughts of rebellion. Ethan's heart seemed to bore into hers with contempt. Brittany glared back,her anger simmering.

The limousine ride to Ethan's house was a silent one. Brittany stared out the window,her mind a million miles away, while Ethan fidgeted with his tie. As they turned into the driveway, Brittany's heart sank. The building was grand and imposing,a testament to Ethan's wealth and status.

The limousine stopped in front of the house, and Ethan got out and mounted the stairs. The first thing Brittany noticed as she got down was the garden. The meticulously manicured lawn, with each blade of grass precision-cut to create a velvety expanse of emerald green.

Roses of every hue - from soft pastel shades to bold and bright - bloomed in perfect harmony, their delicate petals swaying gently in the breeze. Sunflowers towered above, while delicate orchids and exotic blooms added an extra layer of sophistication. Ethan's love for flowers and beauty was evident in every detail, creating a truly breathtaking oasis that was a joy to behold.

As she entered the house, Brittany was struck by its opulence. The foyer was marble-tiled with a chandelier that seemed to sparkle like diamonds. The walls were adorned with intricate frescoes, and the floor was covered with a plush Persian rug.

Amanda, the housekeeper, stood discreetly to the side,her eyes fixed on Brittany with a mixture of curiosity and concern. She was a middle-aged woman, with a kind face and warm smile

"Welcome,Mrs Brittany",she said,her voice low and soothing."I hope you'll be happy here".

Brittany forced a smile, her heart sinking."Thanks...... Brittany is fine".

Amanda led her to the living room , which was equally impressive. The walls were designed with expensive artwork, and the furniture was designer-made. Ethan was seated,his eyes fixed on the coffee table. It was made of polished mahogany, and it seemed to shine in the light.

Amanda brought in a tray of refreshments, including champagne and canapes. Brittany declined,her stomach churning with anxiety. Ethan poured himself a glass of champagne, his eyes fixed on Brittany."So Brittany",he said, his voice cold and detached."Amanda will show you the guest room. I've had it prepared for you".

Brittany smiled,a hint of satisfaction in her eyes."I expected as much, Ethan. I know you didn't want me in your bed".

Ethan raised an eyebrow, taken aback by her calm demeanor "You expected it?"

Brittany nodded,her smile growing wider."Yes,I did. I know we're not meant to be together, Ethan".

"Get this straight", Ethan frowned"I know we're married, Brittany. But let's be real, it's just a facade. A show for our families and friends. I don't love you, and I never will".

"Same here", Brittany retorted."I only married you to please my family, and to secure the business deal between our parents. You're nothing to me, Ethan".

As she walked towards the guest room, she turned back to Ethan and smiled again,a smile that sent shivers down his spine."Don't worry, Ethan. I'll make sure to put on a good show for our families and friends".

With that, she walked into the guest room, leaving Ethan alone in the living room, wondering what she had just unleashed.

The next morning, Brittany woke up to the sound of silence in the grand bedroom that was now her prison. The room was a stunning example of luxury, with walls adorned in gold and cream. The bed was a massive four-poster affair, with intricately carved posts and a canopy that seemed to stretch up to the ceiling. The bedding was crisp and white, with delicate lace trim that added a touch of femininity to the room.

As she sat, she noticed that the room was dimly lit, with heavy curtains blocking out most of the sunlight. She felt a sense of unease,as if she was trapped in a gilded cage. The room was decorated with exquisite taste, but it was also cold and impersonal,a reminder that she was living in a stranger's home.

Her night had been restless, with dreams of Ethan's scowling face and her own feelings of anger and resentment. She had tossed and turned, unable to shake off the feeling of being trapped in a loveless marriage. She had finally fallen asleep, only to wake up feeling exhausted and anxious.

As she threw off the covers, she noticed that her luggage was still unpacked. But the reality was that this was now her home,at least for the foreseeable future. The thought made her shudder. There was a door that led to a private balcony,where she could see the stunning gardens below. But even the beauty of the gardens couldn't lift her spirits. She felt like a prisoner, trapped in a marriage she didn't want, with a man who hated her.

As she got out of bed, she noticed a note on the bedside table. It was from Amanda, the housekeeper, informing her that breakfast would be served in the dining room at 8am. Brittany sighed and began to get ready, wondering what other horrors the day might bring.

She began to get dressed, choosing a pair of dark wash jeans and a crisp white blouse. She paired the outfit with a pair of comfortable loafers, deciding that high heels were not necessary for a day spent around the house.

The dining room was a grand space with a long,formal table that seated at least twenty people. Brittany took her seat at the far end of the table, trying to put as much distance between herself and Ethan as possible.

Amanda began to serve breakfast, and the tension in the room was palpable. Brittany and Ethan didn't speak, their hatred for each other hanging in the air like a thick fog. The food was a lavish spread of eggs,bacon, sausage, pancakes,and fruit. Brittany picked at her plate,her appetite suppressed by the tension.

Ethan,on the other hand,ate with gusto, his eyes fixed on his plate as if trying to avoid eye contact with Brittany. As they ate, the silence was oppressive,punctuated only by the sound of silverware scraping against plates.

Brittany fidgeted,her nerves stretched taut. She couldn't wait to get out of there,to escape the toxic atmosphere that seemed to suffocate her. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, breakfast was over. Ethan pushed back his chair and stood up, his eyes flicking towards Brittany with a look of disdain.

"I have work to attend to",he said gruffly, his tone implying that he couldn't bear to spend another moment in her company.

Brittany nodded,a sense of relief washing over her. She watched as Ethan strode out of the room, his broad shoulders and powerful build radiating an aura of menace. She pushed back her chair and stood up,her eyes scanning the room as if searching for an escape route.

Amanda appeared at her side,a gentle smile on her face."Would you like a tour of the mansion, Brittany?"she asked,her voice soft.

Brittany followed Amanda,her eyes taking in the grandeur of her new surroundings. She felt like a small fish in a big pond, overwhelmed by the sheer scale and luxury of the mansion. As they walked, Amanda pointed out various features of the house, from the formal ballroom to the informal living room. Brittany nodded and smiled, trying to take it all in.

"Amanda, this is all so overwhelming", Brittany said,her eyes wide with wonder."I've never seen anything like it".

"I know it's a lot to take in", Amanda replied, smiling."But you'll get used to it. Mr Ethan spared no expense when he built this place".

"I can see that", Brittany said, running her hand over the intricate carvings on the banister."It's like a work of art".

"Yes it is", Amanda agreed."But it's also a bit of a maze. You'll need to be careful not to get lost".

"I'll try to remember everything you're showing me", Brittany said,her brow furrowed in concentration.

"Don't worry if you don't", Amanda said with a laugh." It takes time to get used to the layout. Just ask for help if you need it".

Just then, the sound of footsteps echoed through the hallway, growing louder with each passing moment. Amanda's eyes flickered towards the door, and Brittany sensed a sudden tension in the air. Ethan strode into the room, his eyes fixed intently on Amanda.

"What's going on here?"he demanded, his voice low and menacing.

Amanda's eyes darted nervously towards Brittany."I was just showing her around the mansion,sir", she replied,her voice trembling slightly.

Ethan's gaze narrowed."I wasn't aware that a tour has been scheduled",he growled, his eyes boring into Amanda's."Did I not make it clear that Brittany........"

Amanda's face went pale."I thought it would be helpful,sir", she interrupted.

"You thought?", Ethan repeated, his voice dripping with disdain." You are not paid to think, Amanda.You are paid to follow instructions".

Brittany's temper flared,her patience wearing thin."Ethan, stop bullying Amanda",she said,her voice firm.

Ethan's gaze snapped towards Brittany, his eyes flashing with anger"And you",he snarled, his voice rising."You dare to question me? in my own home?"

Brittany stood her ground,her heart racing with fear."I won't let you bully Amanda or me", she said,her voice steady.

"How dare you!", Ethan thundered, his voice echoing off the walls."You'll do as I say!, you'll respect me and my rules!".

"I'm not your property, Ethan. I'm a person, with thoughts,and feelings and rights".

"You have no rights, Brittany. Only the rights I give you. And right now, you're trying my patience", Ethan's expression was cold.

With a fierce cry, Brittany stormed out of the room, leaving Ethan standing alone, his face purple with rage.

Ethan slumped into a chair, his eyes fixed on the door Brittany had just stormed through. He couldn't believe she had just stood up to him.

As he sat there, his mind began to wander back to the day his mother had informed him of the arranged marriage. He had been sitting in her office, the same office where she had always called the shots.

"Ethan,dear,we've found a suitable match for you", she had said,her voice dripping with satisfaction."Brittany Thompson is a wonderful girl, from a good family. Her parents have been friends with us for years, and this union will secure a crucial business deal for our company ".

"But mother,I don't even know her", Ethan had protested, feeling a surge of panic."Can't I at least have a say in who I marry?".

"Absolutely not, Ethan", his mother had replied firmly."This is a business arrangement, not a love match".

"I'm not even ready for marriage. I have my whole life ahead of me... and what about love?, what about happiness?".

Ethan's mother scoffed. "Love is a myth and happiness comes from duty and responsibility. You'll learn to love Brittany in time".

"But mother, that's not fair ", Ethan had said. I want to choose my own wife, someone I love and care about".

"It's your dad's decision and we have to agree with him. The wedding is set for June, and I expect you to be there, smiling and happy for the sake of our family's reputation".

Ethan had felt trapped,suffocated by his mother's words. He had always known he was destined for great things, but not like this, not in a loveless marriage. He knew his mother was caught in the middle, trying to balance her love for him with her loyalty to his father. He headed for his garden,a place where he could escape the pressures of his marriage.

After the quarrel with Ethan, Brittany went to the guest room and pulled out a book from her bag, and began to read. As she turned the pages, she felt a sense of comfort and familiarity. She had always loved reading, and her best friend,Dora,had once teased her about her "old-fashioned" love for physical books.

" E-books are so much more convenient. You can carry a whole library with you!".

Brittany had smiled,"That's exactly why I don't want to switch,Dora. I love the feel of physical books. The weight of the pages, the smell of the ink. It's a sensory experience that e-books just can't replicate".

Brittany knew reading was her solace,her happy place. She had brought a few of her favorite novels with her to the mansion. And now,as she read, she felt her mind calm and her heart slow.

Ethan and Brittany didn't talk to each other until the next day. They were finishing up breakfast when Ethan mentioned,"Hey, Gregory is coming over for dinner tonight."

Brittany nodded,her expression neutral. "Okay".

Ethan continued,"He's been wanting to meet you but has been very busy with work lately".

Brittany nodded again,her eyes fixed on her plate.The conversation was brief and simple,a typical conversation about a social engagement.

Gregory is a tall, charming man in his early thirties. He has a chiseled jawline, piercing blue eyes, and a captivating smile that makes him a magnet for women. He works as a successful investment banker, earning a high six figure salary, and is known for his sharp business acumen and ruthless negotiating skills.

Despite his polished exterior, Gregory has a reputation as a womanizer. He is always seen with a stunning woman on his arm, and his conquests are the stuff of office legend. He has a roving eye and a charm that can disarm the most skeptical of women.

Gregory is not married, and he has no intention of settling down anytime soon. He is content with his bachelor lifestyle, enjoying the freedom to do as he pleases, when he pleases. His parents have given up on trying to get him to commit to a relationship, knowing that Gregory's love for women is only rivalled by his love for himself.

Despite his flaws, Gregory is a loyal friend and a trusted confidant. He is the go-to guy for advice on everything from business deals to women, and his sharp wit and sarcasm can always be be counted on to lighten the mood.

Gregory walked into the dining room, his presence commanding attention. He was wearing a tailored navy blue blazer, perfectly fitted to his broad shoulders. His white shirt was unbuttoned at the top, revealing a hint of his chest. A patterned silver tie added a touch of sophistication to his outfit. His dark jeans were fitted perfectly, and his black leather shoes were polished to a high shine. A silver watch glinted on his wrist, completing his stylish ensemble.

He flashed his signature charm,a bright smile spreading across his face.

"Hey,hey,hey!. Look at the happy couple!", he exclaimed, his voice booming.

Ethan stood up, extending a hand for a firm handshake. "Gregory, good to see you man!".

Gregory clapped Ethan on the back, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Ethan, my friend!. How's life treating you?"

He turned to Brittany, his gaze appreciative. "And the lovely Brittany!. You're looking stunning,as always".

Brittany smiled politely,her cheeks flushing slightly."Hi, Gregory. Nice to see you again".

Gregory leaned in, kissing her cheek."Charmed,as always. You know, I've been thinking.............we need to get you out of this house often. Maybe a night on the town, just the three of us?"

Ethan raised an eyebrow, playfully rolling his eyes."Gregory, you're always up to something ".

Gregory chuckled, taking a seat at the table."Hey, someone's got to keep things interesting around here!"

The dinner table was set with a delicious spread of food: grilled salmon, roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, and garlic bread. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, making everyone's mouth water.

As they continued eating and chatting, the atmosphere remained light and enjoyable. The dinner was a resounding success, with empty plates and contented sighs all around.