His Despised Bride

6:am, Greenville

Collins Pov

"What! No! No way"!

"This is a joke, right...? You... don't mean this." I screamed unbelievably into the phone receiver. The voice at the other end of the receiver came through.

"Yes Collins. I'm sorry it has to end this way" and then the call ended.

The shock was too much for me to bear. I burst into hysterical laughter, feeling a deep stab in my heart.

"Oh no!, I started .

"Haha... that was a...that was the greatest joke I've heard in my life....", I broke off and suddenly felt an itch to scream.

Hitting the mirror in which I stood in front, I rubbed my hair in my hands and impulsively threw a fist at the pitiful image in front of me. The mirror came shattering all over in front of me and I watched blood triple down my battered hands.

I heard a hurried advancement and knew instantly that it was my mum rushing up. She let out a gasp the moment she stepped in and echoed "What have you done, Collins?" She gazed at me, her expression clearly worried.

I tried to respond but couldn't find the proper words, it was as if someone had just tied my tongue and I searched around for something to say. My legs wobbled as I leaned over her shoulders for support, crying out my eyes.

"Anne is joking, right, mum?" I blurted.

Dumbfounded, she disentangled the hug and stared with a demanding face. "What do you mean?"

I felt weak in my knees and suddenly felt helpless. "She has no damn right to do that mum". I banged my swollen hands on the bedside table, making the items on it clatter.

"Get it together boy!" I heard a thunderous voice and my face stood blank. I directed my gaze towards the figure by the door and felt a new surge of anger. How long has this wicked man been standing at the door, observing me with his scrutinizing eyes. I hate to admit that I look so much like him that I often see a younger version of himself in me and my older version in him.

Tightening my fist, my face turned hard.

If only this man wasn't my father, I would throw a fist at his handsome face, I swore.

I completely ignored him and focused on my mum who was cleaning my wound with a tissue.

Then I heard him say "What has come over you? You have to get ready to go pick up your wedding suit with Fred, but he said you'd take a rest, only for you to tear the whole house down. What's the madness about?"

From the corner of my eyes, I saw him tighten his grip on the door handle and I immediately felt disgusted by his presence.

"I won't be needing it" I replied, standing up from my already scattered bed.

What I had just said created an effect, as I saw him squeeze his face in confusion.

"What did you just say?" he demanded, looking doubtfully at me.

I chuckled, enjoying the look on his face. Didn't I look puzzled as well when he suddenly called me years ago and arranged a fiancée for me? I guess it was his turn to dance in shock of what was coming.

I marched towards him and stood directly in front of him with him just a few inches from my face. "Anne just called, and guess what?"

I paused and saw him arch his brows further. "She called off the wedding."

It was like a dropped bombshell, neither of my parents expected it.

"What!" They both screamed, and their eyes popped out as though they'd carefully rehearsed. I was enjoying this as I saw my mum grabbed the bedside for support. I couldn't seem to read my father's face, but I imagined the thoughts running through his dirty mind.

"Unbelievable, right?" I asked, smirking at him.

"Exactly...", I countered, barely above a whisper.

"Exactly how I screamed out of my bed moments ago" I continued, raising my voice. "I was about to lose my mind dad, when I received that goddamn call, canceling our wedding. I never wanted this dad. All I wanted was a chance to choose who I love, but I was never given one".

By now, I was already drenched in my own tears. The tears sprang out without restraint.

"Collins!" Mum called gently, and I thought I heard her sniffle. I glanced at her and averted my gaze quickly to prevent her knowing eyes. She was trying to stop me from this outburst, but hell no, I'm not done yet!

"For your own selfish interest, you forced me into getting closer to Anne, you ensured that I skipped work just so I could be with her. You made me profess love to her even when I didn't mean it, dad, so that you can gain more fame and opportunities through her father's influence. We're one of the top billionaire families with a great reputation, but you never contend with it..."

"Enough Collins, I won't have you speak to me that way" he thundered. His face had grown red and hot as he flinched away the book he was holding.

"But it's the truth dad" I shot back.

I ran my hands through my hair, as all the events came flashing before me. I dashed back and forth in rage, not minding the shattered glasses.

"Anyway, thanks to you Dad," I continued.

"Whether for your own selfish interest or not, you've made me grow fond of Anne, and I've come to love her genuinely, so Dad, you have to fix this else your reputation is down the drain", I swore, stamping my right foot in emphasis.

"I can't withstand this" I blurted and stormed out.

"Young sir, where are you heading?" Fred, my personal assistant, inquired as soon as I descended into the compound. I ignored him completely and marched towards the car. Fred tried to stop me, but I pushed him away roughly and was sorry immediately. I didn't mean to push him though. I was going to see Anne, and would have to deal with anyone who stops me.

The gate opened, and I drove out at full speed, noticing Fred, who drove closely behind me. My dad must have sent him to discover where I was heading. I inhaled hard and said nothing.

I was going crazy, I knew, but I wanted to find Anne and ask for her reasons.

Am I not handsome enough? I pondered and immediately dismissed it. That was a ridiculous thought. I've always been everywhere with my good looks and often hear girls whisper to one another about how hot I look.

Have I done anything wrong to her? Did I say anything wrong the last time we met?

Why would...

I trailed off and closed my eyes for a moment. I opened them and immediately muttered "Holy shit" and swerved away from the road as swiftly as possible. The car screeched as I managed to put it in control.

What the heck was that? I frowned and saw a lady struggling to pick up her scattered belongings.

"God! I almost hit her" I muttered, hurriedly stepping out of the car.

"Hey young lady, sorry for my misdoing. Are you alright...?"

Vivian's pov

I had just stepped into the living room to pick up my phone which I had left on the couch, when Cynthia stormed in, dropped the bag she was carrying and walked angrily into her room. I watched her in curiosity and wondered what could have caused her reaction. Picking up the bag she dropped, I peeped into the contents and seemed satisfied.

This is the exact medicine the doctor asked me to get for mum, I thought, and smiled. I'll have to drop by at the hospital later in the day, but for now, I have to check on my younger sister.

I turned and saw her approaching, in a changed dress.

"What's wrong with you?" I demanded and added, "You dropped your bag carelessly and stormed off".

I stared at her intensely as she scoffed and folded her arms.

Though with a frown, I still acknowledged Cynthia's beauty, which, of course, is a replica of myself. We look so much alike that people do make mistakes in identifying us.

Cynthia turned her gaze at me, her lips pouted. "I ran into a jerk today" she said.

"No, I'd rather say a jerk ran into me today" she corrected.

I laughed at her correction and chipped "Take it easy girl, you're always too harsh anyway."

"Are you sure you're not the jerk that ran into someone?" I asked playfully, knowing fully well that Cynthia wouldn't have that.

"Oh please, Vivian" she replied, widening her eyes, and I let out a little laugh.

"Can you imagine that I almost got hit while rushing home with the medicine? She dropped.

"You really don't mean it," I said, raising an eyebrow.

I watched Cynthia's face for anything that could hint at a joke but found none. Her face remained stern and cold.

When she didn't answer me, I asked "How did it happen?"

That did it. Cynthia exploded and narrated the whole incident while I listened intensely.

"Hell! You need to see him looking like a spoiled rich brat who thinks he can get away with anything", Cynthia blurted.

I sighed. Cynthia's temper is one I never looked forward to and anyone who gets her angry is sure to be in trouble.

"Wait" I said and added "I thought you said he asked if you were alright and offered to pack your things."

"If I had got hit, would he have packed my injured self instead? He drove as if he was crazy, and it took all the energy in me to jump away from his way!"

"Yeah, I know you're an athlete, alright" I laughed, throwing a punch at her.

"All I know is that, I gave him an earful and told him to go to hell. He shouldn't get himself drunk early in the morning next time," Cynthia replied, and made to leave the living room.

I shrugged and shouted after her "He might be going through a hell of problems, you can never tell."

Cynthia turned, looking at me as if I was crazy, and mumbled away.

I hesitated. What if something had truly happened to Cynthia? I tried to put myself in her shoes and I can see why she was so angry. I wouldn't be able to stay alive if something happened to her. Aside from mum who is critically sick and hospitalized, Cynthia is all I've got, and her energy has kept me moving.

Whoever that jerk was, I thought, he was really crazy for almost knocking my sister down.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves and searched the bag for the medicine.

Standing up, I glanced at the wall clock. It says 8:15am.

I jumped up immediately. I have to get to work, Evelyn ma'am would be expecting me already.

*** *** ***

Happy Restaurant.

As I stepped out of the taxi, a wave of breeze swept past me, making my long hair dance in rhythm. I clutched my bag and watched as the taxi left. Glancing across the road, I could see that the restaurant was already buzzing with customers.

Oh, I'm so late for work, I mumbled as I crossed to the other side of the road.

Just when I was about to step in, the door opened and Evelyn ma'am appeared carrying two dispensing bags.

"Vivian, you should have been here earlier" She scolded and raised her brows.

I rushed to collect the bags from her. "I'm sorry, Evelyn ma'am". I apologized.

I had to wait for Cynthia to return with the medicines so that I could drop by at the hospital".

As if remembering something, she turned, with a concerned look on her face.

"Oh yeah. Have you taken it to the hospital? "

"Sure," I replied, adding "The doctor sent his regards"

She smiled and nodded. I placed the bags carefully, making them lean against the wall. The waste collector would be here to collect them soon, I thought as I swayed inside merrily to begin the day's work.

Stepping in, I received various comments from customers whom I've grown accustomed to.

"Oh Vivian, you look great."

"What a lovely dress you have on. It fits perfectly".

Thank goodness you're here Vivian, can I place my orders now?

I put on my apron quickly, and I began to attend to the customers, smiling and muttering Thank you as I went about. Evelyn ma'am glanced at me and I blew her a kiss. She seemed very satisfied and smiled graciously.

*** *** ***

Johnson's pov.

I sat in the open space in the large compound of my mansion, bathing in the warm embrace of the cool morning breeze. I was expecting feedback from my men.

Earlier, I had summoned them and ordered that they find a replacement bride for Collins.

I couldn't afford to tarnish my image. The wedding preparations had begun, and I am not going to back down no matter what, I thought, as my phone vibrated.

"Fred, what's the update?" I asked eagerly.

His voice came through the receiver "Sir, we've found someone who seems suitable for the replacement.".

"Perfect! Bring her into the house now!"

Fifteen minutes earlier

Fred's pov.

As the gate opened, and I drove in, I seemed very pleased with myself. I peeped at the lady in the back and smiled. Mr Johnson would be delighted at the Angel I just found, I thought.

I let my mind drift to the event that happened earlier. I adjusted my collar as I stepped out of the car and stood before a magnificent building. The Johnson family is damn rich, I thought as I scanned the company, watching the people around me go in and out with files.

I walked in and the secretary immediately stood up to acknowledge me.

"Assemble the ladies working in the company," I ordered.

He arched his brow while I looked away. Soon, the ladies were marched before me and I moved from one lady to the other. Mr Johnson wouldn't settle for less, so I had to select carefully, I thought.

Then the door swung open. I turned and gasped at the damsel advancing.

She wore an off-white top on a black skirt which hung just below her knees, revealing perfectly long toned legs. Her hips danced so well with every step and her hair bounced up and down.

I was momentarily taken aback and muttered "Oh gracious Lord. This is just the perfect replacement".

The moment she got to where I was standing, she stopped and glanced around in confusion.

"She's perfect" one of the guards I had taken along with me whispered and I nodded.

"What's your name, young lady" I inquired, fixing my gaze on her.

"Well, I'm Lynda, can anyone tell what's going on here?" She replied, brushing parts of the hair on her back.

"The chairman would love to see you" I said.

All the workers gasped. I watched in amazement as Lydia's eyes almost popped out.

"What have I done wrong please?" She asked fearfully.

"Nothing, Lynda. Please come along with us", I assured her, and led her into the car.

"Fred!" I heard my name and jerked to consciousness. I've been lost in thought.

"Yes boss" I replied with a slight bow.

Mr Johnson descended the stairs heavily, sipping a drink.

"Goo...goo...good day sir" Lynda stammered as soon as Mr Johnson showed up.

He cast a brief glance at me and I nodded knowingly.

"She isn't bad," he muttered.

"Tell me where you found her" he said quietly, looking keenly at the figure before him.

"She works for the company, sir," I answered dutifully.

"She what!" Mr Johnson screamed, sending shivers down my spine.

From the corner of my eyes, I could see Mrs Catherine watching the scene from upstairs. I heard her heave then left.

Mr Johnson must have realized the awkward situation because he quickly added "I mean, of course she's perfect" and laughed.

I could see through the laughter. It wasn't real, and I know that I'm done for.

What's wrong with her anyway? I asked myself, wishing I hadn't brought her.

Mr Johnson told one of the maids to serve Lynda a drink and ordered me to meet him outside.

My feet felt heavy as I followed him sluggishly.

Outside, in the compound, he pulled my ear and I let out a grunt.

"Are you such an idiot?" He thundered.

"How can you be so stupid to bring in a worker from the company!"

"She might one day prove to be smart and make stupid moves. Why didn't you think of that?"

Not everyone can be like you, I replied inwardly as I muttered "I'm sorry sir, I'll look for someone else."

He yelled and threw fists at the empty air.

"You better do. Get that girl out of my house and find a convincing reason for bringing her into the house. My name mustn't be dragged into this, understood!?"

"Understood sir" I fumed with rage.

*** *** ***

Happy Restaurant.

Vivian's pov

"I'm telling you" one of the customers pouted at others who did not seem to believe what he was saying.

I moved round the tables, packing the used plates and cups.

He leaned over and continued "These so-called billionaire families have no shame. I heard the bride canceled the wedding, and they sent their guards searching for a young suitable bride".

With a developed interest in the little gossip, I returned to the counter.

I scanned the group and my eyes went to Evelyn ma'am. She was obviously engrossed in the conversation. I saw them laugh at something I couldn't hear well.

I strained my ears and heard him say "My cousin works for Mr Johnson."

The others, including Evelyn ma'am let out a gasp.

A smile flickered over his face. He's obviously enjoying this audience, I thought, and heard him add "The rich man dares not step a foot out without my cousin", he boasted, and the rest laughed.

I rolled my eyes dryly. Where is this conversation going, I thought, suddenly losing interest.

My eyes went to a refuse bag lying in a corner. I seized that opportunity to step out.

It was barely a minute later when I stepped out that I heard a loud splash!!!

"Ouch" I screamed and stared unbelievably at my ruined dress.

What the hell just happened? Oh Gosh! What was that?

"You're a psychopath!" I shouted after the car that raced past me.

I frowned deeply and cursed under my breath. Whoever that idiot is, he or she is surely a crazy fellow to have ruined my dress.

He didn't even stop to apologize. I thought angrily and wished I had rained stones after him.

I fumed with anger as I went into the restaurant.

The man was still talking, and I glanced at him angrily.

Couldn't he just shut the hell up and leave? I thought angrily as I brushed dirt off my dress.

From where I sat, I saw Lauren walking in and felt relieved.

Lauren is my co-worker at the restaurant, and we shift morning and afternoon turns at work.

"Hey Lauren" I beamed at her, waving at the same time.

Lauren smiled back and gave me a light pat as she reached me.

"Thank God you're here" I said, quickly pulling her over.

"Awww, you look awful". She said, squeezing her face.

"Thanks for the compliment, I'll always remember that! I commented playfully and she laughed.

Picking up my bag, I strolled down to where Evelyn ma'am and the customers were gathered to bade her goodbye.

I was dumbfounded when they all stared at me with a knowing look on their faces.

Suddenly, Evelyn ma'am beamed "We've got the right replacement"

Looking at me she added "And she's right here!"

I stood dazed. What's she talking about?