The Billionaire's Bride.

"Your grace, someone is calling you from the Philippines."

I looked up from my papers and stared at the woman bowing in front of me. My brow furrowed at her words as I took off my glasses and leaned back in my chair. I blinked, trying to process what I just heard.

Someone calling me from the Philippines?

A smile tugged at my lips, and I chuckled softly, glancing at Aria, my butler.

"What did he say?" I asked her.

It's a miracle he called me. I know he must have something to say or ask. Knowing that old hag, he wouldn't call without a reason. What could he need now, after ten years of silence since I decided to cut ties with his clan? I've built my name in the business industry here in Europe, standing on my own without asking for their help, not even a single peso.

"He wants you to go back to the Philippines, your grace," she calmly reported.

I couldn't help but raise my left eyebrow. Why? Why does he need my presence now, hmmm? Besides not knowing my current life in Europe, they think I'm just getting by. They underestimate me without knowing I've become more powerful than them. I have no plans to tell them my success; they'd just try to undermine me. That family is insecure. I shook my head and swiveled my chair to face the glass wall, looking out at the city.

"Really? Did he give you a reason why I need to go back to the Philippines?" I asked, still turned away.

Staring at the city calms me, reminding me of my journey to this pinnacle and my self-made title. I can't deny the struggle, especially since I'm not pure royalty. It was incredibly tough, but here I am, standing strong.

"No reason, your grace," she replied.

I signaled her to leave. After hearing the door open and close, I smiled. How about visiting them unannounced? They want me to go back home, after all.

HOME. My ass. That place is not my home. I'll never call it that. How could I, when they treated me like a slave?

"Well, let's see why he needs my presence," I whispered into the air.

***

"Don't forget to report to me if anything happens and update me on everything, Aria," I instructed Aria, who was bowing before me, with the rest of my staff behind her.

Today, I'm leaving for the Philippines. I'm still unsure why they need me. I know they must have a plan. They wouldn't notice me otherwise, right? After almost ten years of living far from them, my life has been peaceful. I can do what I want. I'm free like a bird. Over time, I've learned to stand alone and discovered who I truly am.

I now understand why God let me live in this cruel world: to know my worth and survive among devils in disguise. It's not easy, but I must survive.

Taking a deep breath, I looked around. From my large mansion, two big fountains, and extensive gardens to my staff ready to follow my orders, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment for what I've built here in Europe. This is my kingdom, and I rule it with an iron will.

As I boarded the private jet to the Philippines, I couldn't shake the apprehension. Returning to a place I left, filled with memories of struggle and pain, was not something I had anticipated. But curiosity burned inside me. What could be so important that they needed me now?

The flight was long, and I spent it lost in thought, reminiscing about my journey from a powerless girl to a formidable woman. I had learned to navigate the treacherous waters of high society and had become a force to be reckoned with in the business world. No one would dare underestimate me again.

As the plane touched down in the Philippines, I felt a mixture of dread, anger, and a strange sense of nostalgia. I had come a long way, and I was determined not to let anyone, especially my family, diminish my accomplishments.

With firm resolve, I stepped off the plane and into the unknown, ready to face whatever awaited me in the land I once called home. But returning to the place I called home, I never knew it would turn into a reckless and unpredictable journey, one that would challenge me in ways I had never imagined.

Because I, Katharina Esmeralda Grimaldi, Duchess of Monaco and part of Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), found myself in an arranged marriage with a dangerously beautiful beast and cold-hearted billionaire, Rome Benjamin Azcárraga, CEO of Azcárraga Oceanic Shipping Lines Inc., one of the most prominent and largest shipping companies in Asia.

I was eighteen when I escaped from them-those who were part of my chaotic past. It was exhausting and difficult, yet I managed to flee. It wasn't easy, especially since they didn't want to let me leave their place, a land filled with painful memories.

I used to be an obedient woman, too innocent back then, letting them control me. I was too kind, thinking it was part of my identity, but I was wrong. I was an illegitimate child, not accepted by my father's family because they believed I tarnished their reputation. So, they hid me as a servant and gave me a different surname. I felt sad at that time for not bearing my father's surname, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It was one of the reasons why my papers were processed quickly, allowing me to carry my mother's surname and change my name. This marked the beginning of significant changes in my life.

I closed my eyes and felt the familiar breeze I thought I'd never experience again. I secretly smiled, opened my eyes, and looked ahead where three bodyguards were waiting next to two cars. I adjusted the black coat draped over my left arm and put on my black sunglasses.

I slowly descended from the jet, my hair dancing in the wind. When I stopped in front of the three bodyguards, they all bowed to me, and I nodded in acknowledgment.

"Welcome, your grace," they greeted.

I dropped my single suitcase, which one of the bodyguards immediately picked up and loaded into a car. Another led me to a different car and guided me inside.

As I settled into the plush leather seat of the car, the familiar sights and sounds of the Philippines began to flood my senses. The air was thick with humidity, and the scent of street food and tropical flowers wafted in through the open window. It was as if I had never left, and yet, I had changed so much.

"Let's surprise the Serrano family," I told the driver while keeping my gaze out the window.

I could imagine their reactions in my head, especially my half-siblings. I'm sure they will be happy to see me back in their mansion. What have they been up to? Do they have their own businesses now? From what I remember, they had lofty dreams, wanting to show me I could never match them. They hated me so much that they'd be happy to see me die in front of them.

I shook my head at the thought and saw a faint image in the window reflection. I took a deep breath when I recognized her. Even though my memory of them, especially her, was blurry, I could never forget her. The person who made my life worse than that of a servant, who made my life a living hell. It was my biological father's wife.

Since I was an illegitimate child, she poured all her anger on me. It wasn't my fault her husband was unfaithful, but she still hurt me, and my so-called father let it happen because he didn't care about me.

"Yes, your grace. By the way, butler Aria notified us that she booked a hotel for you if you want to stay there."

I nodded, considering Aria's suggestion.

"Thank you. Please take me to the Serrano mansion first. I want to see their faces and the mansion if there's any improvement," I replied to the driver, who promptly followed my instructions.

I took my phone from my black coat pocket and quickly searched for Aria's email to see if she had sent any updates, especially regarding the tasks I gave her. I smiled when I saw she had sent me something.

I leaned back in the passenger seat and opened the email to read it. My left eyebrow raised when I discovered that my past name still existed. The last update of my past name's activity was the date when I flew to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). There were no further records, just what I had written as my occupation-a domestic worker, which was indeed my starting point in Spain.

And now, my name is Katharina Esmeralda Grimaldi, daughter of Princess Katharina of Monaco. A duchess and part of a prestigious organization like Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), my journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

As part of Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), I am known not only in Monaco but also in various parts of Europe. Not as royalty, but as a successful businesswoman. I am one of the businesswomen behind the success of Monaco's world-famous Place du Casino. I own a hotel in Monte Carlo and a luxury real estate business in Monaco. I also have a penthouse to relax in The Odeon Tower.

I continued reading the information about my past self and saw that nothing had changed. It was a stark contrast to my life now. Who I am today is vastly different, but I also cherish my past because without experiencing its bitterness, I might not have fought so hard to achieve my dreams. My goal was simple-to rise out of poverty-but I received much more. I smiled faintly and typed a new update in the biography of my former name before opening the Google app. I decided to read at least one news article about my father's family to avoid being too surprised upon entering their territory.

Serrano Family

Searching...

The signal is still weak here in the Philippines. That's one thing that hasn't changed, at least for now. After a few minutes, Google provided some websites. From their accomplishments to their family events, I scanned through the search results, finding articles and images that portrayed a seemingly happy and successful Serrano family.

It appeared that my half-siblings had indeed achieved their dreams and more. They were prominent figures in various fields, from business to politics.

As I scrolled through images of lavish parties and extravagant vacations, a strange mix of emotions washed over me. I felt a twinge of bitterness, knowing that they had thrived while I had struggled. What if people knew their true colors? Business to politics? They are truly money-hungry. Who in the Serrano family is running for office? I put my phone back in my pocket and looked out the window again.

The drive through the bustling streets of Manila was a stark contrast to the orderly elegance of Europe. I watched the chaos outside, the street vendors, the honking cars, and the colorful billboards advertising everything from fast food to luxury cars. It was a reminder of the world I had left behind, a world that had once held me captive.

"Your grace, we've arrived at the Serrano mansion," the driver's voice interrupted my thoughts.

I blinked twice and saw the imposing gates of the Serrano mansion. It was as grand as I remembered, with its sprawling gardens and opulent architecture. The memories of my time there, both good and bad, flooded back.

With a deep breath, I stepped out of the car and approached the gates. The guards recognized me immediately and allowed me entry. I could see the surprise and confusion in their eyes as they saw me standing proudly at the entrance.

I stood two meters from the mansion's entrance, observing it before taking a deep breath and walking towards it. My heels clicked on the marble pathway. The heavy wooden doors swung open, revealing a lavish foyer filled with opulent furniture and priceless art. I was greeted by a happy family in the living room with their guests.

Seeing their reactions, I felt all the emotions I'd experienced over the past years surge in my heart. I approached them with deliberate steps, every click of my heels capturing their attention. Before I even reached the center of the foyer, they turned to look in my direction.

For a brief moment, I saw shock on their faces, their jaws dropping, and their eyes widening. I heard gasps and confusion about who I was.

"Margaret?" I heard one of them say, the first word spoken, echoing with a puzzled look.

I continued my stride, making my way to where the family was gathered. They still couldn't believe it, and the disbelief was almost palpable in their gazes.

I didn't accompany my arrival with any greetings or claims. Instead, I just scrutinized them with a serious look. In their eyes, I saw the secrets they had left behind. And now, standing before them, I was excited to see what would happen next, especially since our kind father had called me back.

I stopped a few meters from them, removed my sunglasses, and greeted them.

"Good morning!"

Serrano Family

Once, I treasured them the most, knowing they were my family despite their toxic behavior towards me. The Serrano name, once a source of pride and belonging, now carried a heavy burden of memories and pain.

I looked at them, and it was impossible not to be flooded with memories. I glanced at the grand staircase where I used to sit and watch the lavish parties my half-siblings would attend. I remembered how I longed to be a part of their world, to be acknowledged and accepted.

But the Serranos had never truly accepted me, believing that I was the product of a scandalous affair, an embarrassment to their prestigious name. They had hidden me away, forced me into a life of servitude, and treated me as if I were invisible. I had grown up amidst opulence, yet I was denied the most basic of human rights-love and acceptance.

As I stood there, memories of the past washed over me like a torrential rainstorm. I remembered the countless times I had witnessed their grand celebrations from the shadows, longing to be a part of their world. But their disdain for me had always been evident, as if I were a stain on their perfect image.

Now, I was back, no longer the timid and obedient girl they had known. I had transformed into someone they could never have imagined, and I was determined to confront the demons of my past.

But, I had no plan to reveal and boast about who I am now because, from the beginning-what do they care about my life? Who are they to know what I am right now? Just a waste of time. I am here because there is one person I want to see, and I don't know what his plan is.

The Serrano family, still in a state of shock, exchanged glances and hushed whispers. It was clear that they were not prepared for my return, especially not in my current form.

"Margaret, is that you?" one of my half-siblings finally managed to utter, disbelief etched across their face.

I couldn't help but hide a smirk at their reaction.

"Yes, it's me," I replied with a hint of satisfaction in my voice. "Or should I say, it's Katharina Esmeralda Grimaldi now?"

But of course, I didn't say the last part. As far as I know, I am also famous here in the Philippines. Some businessmen want to negotiate with me, and I have no plan to meet one of those greedy people. It ruins the day.

Minutes of silence passed until my excellent half-sister broke it. She is a year younger than me. She laughed as if she had seen a clown, followed by her excellent mother, who sat like a queen on a single sofa wearing an elegant black dress. She also wore accessories on her neck, wrists, ears, and rings on her fingers.

"Oh my! Dad, she's too early. Maybe she's excited to see us after she escaped from us," she said mockingly to her father, her gaze sharp as it landed on me.

I ignored her and secretly searched for the one person who had been my ally in this mansion. I couldn't find him, so I looked at my father, who stood straight and stared at me with his piercing gaze. I didn't look away and met his eyes.

He needs something from me, so he needs to be obedient also. It would be embarrassing for them if I were the one without a voice here.

"You didn't acknowledge your arrival. Is that what you learned as an OFW in Spain? What kind of agency do you have? Well, since you are here, follow me to the office. You have something to do for us," he said seriously.

I furrowed my brows but was not surprised by what I heard.

Do something for them? That's their greeting for me. No "How are you?" or "Do you want drinks?"

This family!

"Who is she, Eleanor?"

I turned to a lady who was staring at me with a frown. Her face was familiar to me, but I didn't know where I had seen her. Well, she seemed like a family friend. If she doesn't know me, it means my identity is still hidden.

I met the gaze of the elegant woman and decided to maintain my silence, allowing the Serrano patriarch to respond. It was essential for me to keep my new identity hidden for now, especially from those who were not directly involved in the matter at hand.

But, they avoided the topic. I'm not surprised.

I ignored them and focused my attention on my impatient father. My biological father, Antonio Serrano, gestured for me to follow him. I walked slowly toward the staircase. Even though they were noisy, I could still hear the sound of my heels. I passed by them and ignored their stares as I ascended the stairs.

I followed my father up the grand staircase, my heels echoing through the opulent mansion. Memories of this place flooded back, both good and bad, as I ascended the steps. It was surreal to be back in the Serrano mansion after all these years, and the tension in the air was palpable. As we reached the top of the staircase, my father led me down a long corridor adorned with expensive artworks and antique furniture. The silence between us was heavy, but I had no intention of breaking it. I was here for a purpose, and I needed to know what he wanted from me.

We finally arrived at a set of double doors, and my father pushed them open to reveal a luxurious office. It was a room I remembered well, as it was where I had often seen him conduct his business affairs when I was growing up. He gestured for me to take a seat in front of his imposing mahogany desk, and I obliged, sitting down gracefully. He remained standing, his expression unreadable as he looked at me.

"Margaret," he began, using the name I had long discarded. "I'm sure you're wondering why I called you back to the Philippines."

I crossed my legs and leaned back in the plush chair, maintaining a composed demeanor. "Indeed, Father. I am curious as to your reasons."

He studied my movements before continuing.

"It was your grandmother's last will."

I adjusted my posture. Last will? Did Grandma have a last will? Why? What happened to her? I became anxious, and my hands turned cold. My mind figured it out, but I couldn't accept it. How?

"What do you mean?" I asked calmly.

He took a deep breath and sat down in his chair, clasping his hands on the table. He stared at me intently before looking away.

"She died last month, and we discovered that she had a last will. I thought I could immediately inherit her assets, but I couldn't. Instead, your name is in her last will," he said sharply, glaring at me.

I continued to listen to my father's words, the news of my grandmother's passing weighing heavily on me. Grandma had been a source of comfort during my difficult years in this mansion, the only one who had shown me any form of kindness. Her presence had been a small solace in an otherwise painful existence.

Why didn't they tell me about this? Why didn't they inform me? And now that they need me because they found out they couldn't get Grandma's inheritance, they called me. But having my name in her last will was something I hadn't expected.

"What did Grandma specify in her will?" I asked, my voice steady despite the storm of emotions inside me.

My father hesitated for a moment before answering, "She bequeathed to you the sugarcane land in Negros, including her charitable foundation, the Lacson-Serrano Foundation."

His face contorted with frustration as he spoke of Grandma's bequest. I ignored him and thought about the sugarcane farm in Negros. Grandma's farm was one of the largest sugarcane areas in the Negros Island Region, and inheriting it came with immense responsibilities and challenges. The Lacson-Serrano Foundation, too, was a well-established charitable organization that played a crucial role in the community.

"Why me?" I finally spoke, my voice tinged with both surprise and uncertainty. "Why did Grandma choose me for this?"

My father's expression hardened. "Ask yourself. What did you do that even Mom's land was given to you? I can accept the Foundation but the Lacson GoldenCane Farm? No! However, you can't have the farm without being married to an Azcárraga."

"Wait, what?" I asked in shock at his last statement.

He glared at me.

"I want you to marry an Azcárraga because he is also a good catch for your brother Atlas, who is running for Governor of Negros. And if you want to marry him, I'll take Mom's land by any means necessary. You don't deserve this, Margaret."

My world seemed to stop at what I heard. I ignored his last statement because I was tired of hearing it here in the Philippines. But, why? This was certainly not what I had expected when I returned to the Philippines. It seemed that Grandma's bequest came with a heavy price, one that involved my future and my family's political ambitions.

Since when did they have an interest in politics? Arranged marriage with an Azcárraga? The name was familiar, but I didn't know them. What was Grandma's connection to the Azcárraga family? And why did she choose that family? What got into her to meddle with my love life? I can take over the Foundation and the Lacson GoldenCane Farm without an arranged marriage. I can even handle it on my own, but why?

The question is, did the Azcárraga family agree?

"And who is this Azcárraga that I'm supposed to marry?" I asked calmly but firmly.

My father's stern expression remained unyielding.

"You don't need to know until now, and Azcárraga is a prominent name not only in Negros politics but in the whole country. You never knew them because you are not part of an elite society, and you have lived in Spain for ten years. There are many things you don't know about this country, so follow one of your grandmother's wishes. Marrying into that family will solidify our connections and ensure your brother's success in the upcoming elections."

I looked down and stared at the table to hide my reaction from him. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. If I had known this was what awaited me in the Philippines, I wouldn't have come back. I even came back early to surprise them, but I ended up being the one surprised.

I couldn't ignore this, especially since it involved my grandmother's farm and foundation. I didn't know my father's plans for the land in Negros, but I suspected he would use it for his purposes. Whatever they were, I wouldn't allow it.

"And what if I refuse?" I challenged, unwilling to accept this fate without a fight.

My father leaned forward, his eyes locking onto mine.

"Simple, I will burn that Foundation, especially since it's wasting Serrano's money, and I can't have the donations. I have no interest in that useless charity. They're hopeless and wasted. Why would I support that Foundation when your mother has her own? No one supports your grandmother's foundation anymore, so it's no surprise if many children are starving."

I wanted to slap him. I wanted to punch him. Why did I have him as a father? Huh! That wicked witch? Really? No wonder she couldn't wait for Grandma to die, acting like the lady of the Serrano household while Grandma was still alive.

"Why? Did the Azcárragas agree to Grandma's wish?" I challenged him.

I saw him smile-that smile that indicated a plan was in place or had already been executed. No doubt, he's a devil in disguise. Disgusting!

"Of course! They should be. I'll notify you of the meeting with the Azcárraga clan because they have conditions for marrying you."

I stared at him intently. Conditions. Then, I'll make mine too.

"I'll marry an Azcárraga, and I want you to not touch the foundation and the farm. But this doesn't mean I'll follow your plans; it will be on my terms, not yours."

We stared at each other, a silent war passing between us. He thought he could manipulate me, but he was wrong. But I needed to lie low, especially since his mind worked differently.

"Then, let's see each other then, Father," I said before standing up and adjusting my black coat, still bowing slightly to him.

"You've grown strong, Margaret. But, you are still the weak, fragile, and manipulable Margaret in my eyes," he said, a hint of a smirk on his face.

I looked at him with determination. "We'll see about that," I replied firmly before turning and walking out of the office.