As she sat in the dimly lit confines of her car, the dashboard clock glowed 9:47 PM, casting an eerie blue hue on her tense features.
She was getting so nervous. It's been a year since she's seen her ex boyfriend after she was drugged and he saw them. He had stormed away angrily, breaking up with her the next day. Now he just called her saying he wants to discuss with her.
He told her to meet him at a restaurant by night. She had arrived ten minutes ago but she was shivering slightly, wondering what on earth he would want from her now.
Her phone, forgotten on the passenger seat, suddenly buzzed to life, shrill in the stillness.
The name on the display made her stomach twist into knots: Dominic.
A year had passed since their messy breakup, a year since he caught her drunk with someone else leaving him shattered. She begged, saying it was an accident but he left her.
Finally after what seemed like hours, she stepped out of the car, her stomach tightening into knots. The restaurant was exquisite and beautiful. She was ushered into a room by a waiter.
Dominic sat there in a table, sipping a cold wine. Tessa's heart thumped maddeningly, for no reason.
"Hi," she mumbled a greeting, still rooted to the spot.
Dominic looked up slowly but didn't say anything. His silence was palpable, heavy with unspoken emotions. His gaze was cold, almost evil. This isn't the same softhearted Dominic she knew a year ago. Her knees felt wobbly.
Then, Dominic's low, familiar tone sent shivers down her spine. "Hey, it's been a while. I hope you had no difficulty getting here?"
Tessa shook her head, gulping. The only difficulty she's experiencing right now was her irregular heartbeats.
"Still looking beautiful, Tessa." He smiled sweetly, his eyes raking the sexy blue dress she wore – his favorite color. She was still dashing and he smiled secretly, wickedly.
He damn despised her after everything but he sure as hell is in deep shit and she's the only one that could help him out.
"Thank you.." she replied uneasily, taking a seat opposite him.
She didn't know why she was breathless. Shit! She was dating and yet she's finding him attractive again. What the hell??? Her eyes couldn't stop staring at the perfectly sculpted man in front of her. Oh goodness....
"Let's get to business. I need a fake wife for a month. And you'll fit just perfectly.* He didn't mince words.
Tessa felt her heart stop at that moment.
Fake marriage????? What the hell???
"Are you nuts???" She screamed out, tossing her purse angrily that it crashed on the wall. It hit a beautifully decorated vase which was sent crashing into the floor.
"Chill, hothead. I'm running out of time Tess and you're the only one I could think of!!" Dominic said tersely, getting up slowly.
That was the criteria. He had to marry before his dad gave him the companies. And he had to visit his dad with his wife. The worst part is that he already told him he was newly wed, although it was a court marriage. He had no choice but to go to her.
"I'm not marrying you!!" She growled.
"I don't wanna marry you either that's why it's fake! Until I get what I need from my Dad, you're my pretend bride. Is that comprehensible enough?" He shot with a dark look.
Then calming down a bit, he said," I know of your mom's surgery."
Tessa swallowed nothing, staring at him angrily. Her mom was dying and even her boyfriend has assisted in many ways but it still wasn't enough. She's had five surgeries already and he's the one taking care of the bills. Now five months later, she needs another because she has a frail system. And they're all in need of funds. Her boyfriend had traveled and for three months, she hasn't heard from him. Fúck!
"She has few days to live right? Agree and sign the contract and I'll pay for it. Everything." Dominic drawled softly.
His dad was a manipulator! Very sneaky man that's how he's thrived in his"business ". Dominic couldn't find anyone that fit perfectly and he was running out of time!
"Fine, I agree." Tessa frowned, tightening her fists. She was incredibly helpless about it. They're middle class, a shattering amount of the surgery was something that would destroy them. We're talking about millions here!
"There are a few rules though." Dominic brought up and she frowned bitterly. Just when she thought it'd be easy.
"What is it?" She snapped, still boiling in raw anger. All her apprehensions and nervousness melted under his unexpected request.
"We will consummate our "marriage ". That is– we're gonna fúck."
Tessa's throat dried up and her face turned white as if she just saw a ghost wave at her.
"I'm not having sex with you! Rot in hell!!" She shouted defiantly, mad.
"What? You think playing pretend is going to cover up your mom's surgery?" He laughed viciously. "If you refuse, Tessa you'll loose her. I'm trying to help a one time girlfriend here."
"I have a boyfriend, he just traveled. " She said gritting.
"We'll be done before you know it. Besides if you're afraid of cheating on him, don't be, you're a cheater already, aren't you?" Dominic gave a twisted smile making Tessa quiver slightly.
He didn't know the truth. She tried explaining but refused to believe her.
"Now soon-to-be wifey, let's practice our kissing in front of my Dad. Even if we don't kiss now. On our wedding photos we will. I never knew you had such a sexy body until today. The hips are killing," Dominic winked, getting up, walking closer to her.
"Don't...don't touch me.." her voice got stuck in her throat as he wrapped his arm around her waist.
"I never stopped loving you, Tess." he smirked and she felt her heart explode. With excitement
"What??" She gasped, barely concealing her shock. She knew it wasn't true, they had separated for so long, but her heart was pounding crazily, leaving her clueless.
There was a mistake somewhere. All her anger and hatred just melted just by hearing him say this to her. She couldn't believe her damn self. It's as if she's suddenly a twelve-year-old schoolgirl who's prom crush just asked her out!
She was jolted out of her misery when she felt his breath feather her face.
Dominic's eyes trailed down her soft features, inhaling the sweet smell of her hair. Maybe this wouldn't be a bad idea. She's very tempting with innocent brown eyes. Her brown eyes were the most extraordinary things he liked about her.
"How about a preview of what's to come?? How about we enjoy ourselves," he muttered, his breath fanning her ears.
"You're kidding, right?" Tessa scoffed, unable to believe his guts.
"It's crazy how you think I'm joking right now. I want you, Tess. Always did." He smiled slowly.
Tessa's breath faltered as he stood inches from her. His mere presence was making her stomach churn unpleasantly. She wanted to shrink to the tiniest fragment and disappear from his unwavering gaze.
She was trying to seem disgusted to the core as she imagined him touching her, but she wasn't. She still couldn't believe she was going to be a fake wife. The idea was distinctly unappealing, but in a way, exciting.
Dominic's eyes locked onto Tessa's, the air thickening between them. He stepped closer, his voice low and husky.
"Tessa."
Her name was a gentle summons, drawing her in.
Tessa's heart skipped a beat as Dominic's hands cradled her face. His thumbs traced her cheekbones, sending shivers down her spine.
Before she knew it, he kissed her hotly. Tessa felt her entire wall crash and burn, and for goodness' sake, she couldn't tear her mouth away from him.
He was so rough, biting her lips savagely that she moaned in pain.... and a lil pleasure. Fuck...what was she doing??? Why's she not resisting?
This man was definitely someone, even her emotions could not trifle with. He was dangerous and cruel, but she wanted the kiss, despite how rough it was.
Gosh, how her body works.
Finally, he disengaged for a second, staring at her. Then kissed again.
Their lips met in a soft, exploratory kiss. Tessa's eyes fluttered closed, her senses surrendering.
Dominic's mouth moved slowly, savoring the taste of her. Tessa's hands rose, her fingers tangling in his hair.
The world melted away, leaving only the gentle pressure of their lips.
Dominic deepened the kiss, his tongue dancing with hers. Tessa's pulse quickened, her breath catching.
Time suspended, they lost themselves in the sweetness of the moment.
Their tongues colliding inside each other's mouth, Dominic's eyes were filled with insane cravings and longings, desperate passion to have her.
Although he's not a person who falls in love, she's sweet, and he's going to enjoy her for as long as the fake marriage stands.
Tessa whined softly each time he deepened the kiss, growing wild on his lips.
His taste was so addicting that she couldn't help it but go insane.
Gosh, why couldn't she disengage and probably punch him in the face??
Her breaths increased every second, with every single touch from him, her heart was doing too much as the racing doubled.
He was still kissing her, and then his hand trailed to her shirt.
Tessa felt shockwaves through her entire system as he slowly and tenderly unbuttoned a few top buttons. She held her breath as his fingers touched her skin....her breasts!
He continued kissing her as he began rubbing her b**bs possessively and she loved every single touch.
His touch has as much effect on her as his face.
She can't believe she's being touched by him right now..... touched by anyone apart from her boyfriend!! What's she doing? She's letting her ex touch her. Oh goodness...she has to resist.
But deep down, she loved the idea of pretending to be his wife for a few weeks. It might be interesting and her mom will be safe. Then she'll say goodbye to Dominic once and for all. Forever!!
Dominic suddenly disengaged and bent down to give her boobs a gentle bite and a satisfying moan escaped her lips. Then the real sucking started,followed by the thrilling moans from her.
She moaned sweetly, her voice like music to his ears. This is just the beginning, he's going to get his revenge one way or another. She had signed the contract without reading the contents. She's just made a grave mistake.
Then as the sweet lust came, stark horror preceded. She pulled away harshly, her skin crawling with dread.
Her fist made contact with his face and he shifted back, grimacing.
"Don't fucking touch me!!!" She screamed out, agitated.
She hurriedly buttoned up, silently chiding herself for being carried away..Shit! She didn't know what overcame her! Why would she kiss him so willingly?? Why did she allow him to touch her...this maniac!!! What's happening? This wasn't happening to her. She was completely disappointed in herself. She actually got carried away. So pathetic.
She felt a slight pain in her lips and she touched it slightly to see it bruised. "Fúck!" He was so rough and he bit her lips which was vicious – but sweet.
Dominic smirked, licking his lips. "Let's get ready, Tessa . We'll be "marrying" tomorrow." He smiled widely. She's in for some shock, because this isn't just a contract marriage, this is about revenge!
"Alright. Let's just get this over with." Tessa snarled, glaring at him.
"You look cute, Tess. When you're angry." Dominic muttered to her hearing, causing her to scoff. They walked to the car.
Tessa sighed, leaning on the car seat as they got in. Should she really do this? At least her mom's bills would be covered. So she's ready for anything.
She thought about the kiss, smiling.
The next day, they drove to a luxury hotel where everything was ready. That's where the photo shoot would take place. Dominic had no time to waste anymore. So it had to be done.
In no time, they were dressed. Tessa stared at her reflection in the mirror, smiling deeply. The gown was breathtaking. She looked so pretty.
Some make-up artists were invited to make her look like a real bride. Tessa's gaze wandered over the ivory silk satin, the delicate lace, and intricate beading.
The sweetheart neckline framed her face, while the long, flowing sleeves seemed to dance around her.
"It's... breathtaking," Tessa whispered, tears welling up.
Tessa's hands drifted to the beaded belt, her fingers tracing the delicate patterns. The mermaid silhouette hugged her curves, the flared skirt cascading like a waterfall.
She looked extremely beautiful; it made her so emotional. She sighed deeply.
"Let's get this over with."
"You shine, chérie. This gown was made for you." A voice behind her interrupted her thoughts.
Tessa scoffed rudely. "What are you doing here?" She snarled.
"Smile, dear. You're supposed to look happy." Dominic smiled, closing the door gently. He was already dressed, and everything was set.
"Right." She mumbled, rolling her eyes. Look happy? Is he kidding her? She's supposed to act like she's interested in this? It's not possible because she's filled with dread.
She didn't want to be around him. Good heavens, is she really going to be trapped here with him?
"Your veil?" Dominic offered, picking it up.
Tessa nodded, and he gently placed the sheer, lace-edged veil over her hair.
The transformation was complete. Tessa felt like a bride – radiant, confident, and loved. But except, this was fake, and she wasn't with her dream man, her boyfriend.
"You will make a stunning bride, Tessa. He'll be lucky." Dominic shrugged. He had to give it to her; she was radiant, and her red hair was extremely pretty.
He couldn't wait to taste her, fuck her till she's begging for mercy. She definitely doesn't know the type of man she's dealing with. He's crazy! A psychopath, and she's about to experience hell!
She doesn't know he's a son of a mafia. She broke the wrong man's heart.
"Alright, let's get over with this shitty pretence." Tessa scoffed, walking past him.
He grabbed her hands harshly.
"If you screw this for me, your life will be miserable."
Tessa gulped, suddenly quaking with fright. There was something about him that was scary. Her skin was crawling with unease.
Although he was so handsome, he looked dangerous. He didn't have tattoos or piercings, but he oozed with danger.
He was tall, his broad shoulders and chiseled features accentuated by a tailored tuxedo.
His golden blond hair was perfectly styled, complementing his bright blue eyes. The crisp white shirt and bow tie seemed to glow against his tanned skin.
They actually looked like a real couple, except – instead of smiling like those in love – they were scowling at each other, forced into a commitment by their parents – Tessa's parents' debt and his father's criteria.
Finally, they took a couple of pictures, posing as lovebirds. Some kissing and overly romantic, and afterwards, they were done.
It was already dusk. Soft pink and peach hues kissed the sky, deepening into coral and salmon as the sun dipped below the horizon.
They stepped out of the room, and Tessa could finally breathe. She felt choked having to hug him and act all lovey-dovey like real couples.
It was sickening, but she had no choice.
Dominic strolled out, behind her with a smirk. He was staring at her weirdly.
"What?" She shot hating his leers.
"This marriage isn't going to be easy. " He said slowly, circling her like a lion stalking his prey.
"What do you mean?" She said softly, her voice nearly quivering.
"Sweet, naive, little Tessa." He smirked.
Tessa swallowed nothing.
"I barely forgive, Tess. Now You've signed the contract, I'll have you know I'm in for revenge."
"Revenge?" She gasped.
"You're going to be miserable. I plan on torturing you." Dominic snarled viciously and Tessa shifted immediately.
Then slowly, he pulled out a gun.
Tessa nearly died. Actually she did and resurrected.
Dominic smiled dangerously watching Tessa who was pale, unable to tear her eyes from the deadly gun he was holding.
He enjoyed her discomfiture and fear. He's always loved her so much, so much that he was gaga. Mad. Lovesick. And then she cheated on him. This is what he wanted, revenge.
The sick thrill of hurting her the way she hurt him was refreshing.
"I loved you like hell! Then you met some bastard and slept with him. God, you're a whore!! For a year, I waited, stalked you crazily. Watched you, so I could find out how I can torture you. It so happens, coincidentally, I needed a bride and you needed money badly. And unlucky you, you signed the contract without reading it." He pressed the gun on her temples, the cold steel hurting her.
Tessa coughed heavily, choking. She tried to breathe normally but failed. He was hellbent on hurting her, the tears at the corner of her eyes were satisfying to watch. He loved every bit of it.
"That's not.... what happened," she said feebly, breathless.
"You hurt the wrong person. The contract states that you're to do as I say, whatever. I lied, it's not for a month Tessa, but till I'm tired, till I set you free. This marriage isn't for fun. I'm going to torture you so bad that when I'm done with the contract, you'll never be the same again." Dominic finally removed the gun from her, leaving Tessa stunned and pale as she sank to the floor.
He walked away, pocketing the rifle.
For twenty seconds– or so it seemed – Tessa forgot how to breathe. She was in all shades of trouble. Dominic was out for revenge. She had created a vengeful monster!