The Loveless Marraige Contract

SERENA'S BEDROOM - EARLY MORNING

Serena, a beautiful 20-year-old girl, paces back and forth in her messy bedroom. She was dressed up for college, her face filled with anger and frustration. Her mother, MRS. ANDERSON, enters the room, looking worn out.

"I can't believe you couldn't change his mind, Mom! How could Dad agree to this marriage while I'm still in college?" She stated angrily,

"Serena , please calm down. We've discussed this before. Your father believes it's the right time for you to marry, and he wants what's best for you." Mrs Anderson said,

Serena slams her hands on the table, causing some books and papers to fly off.

"No, no, no! It's not fair! I've worked so hard to get to where I am. I deserve to finish my education before getting married!" Serena said with tears at the verge of her eyes.

"I understand your frustration, Serena, but your dad's decision is final. Marrying into the influential Holloway family will benefit us in many ways. You'll still have the opportunity to study while being married." Her mother said softly,

"That's not what I envisioned for myself, Mom. I want to build a career, not just be a trophy wife! It's my life, and I should have a say in it!" She yelled angrily,

"I know it's hard for you to accept right now, but maybe you'll change your mind once you meet Chester. He's a kind young man, and he would genuinely care for you." Her mother said again,

Serena wipes away her tears, trying to compose herself. She takes a deep breath and nods reluctantly.

"Alright, Mom. I'll give it a chance, but I'm not promising anything. Now, I need to head to college. I can't be late on my first day back." She said and rushed out of the house.

STARNESS COLLEGE

Serena walks through the lively college campus, her two best friends, Louella and Rowan, spot her and rush to greet her. They share warm hugs, excited to be reunited.

"Serena! You're finally back! How was your summer break?" Louella said grinning widely,

"Tell us everything, Serena. Did you have any wild adventures without us?" Rowan said smiling too,

"Well, I wish I could say it was wild, but it was mostly filled with arguments and family drama." Serena said with a slight smile.

"Oh no, what happened?" Louella asked,

Serena fills them in on the conversation she had with her mother, explaining her father's decision and the impending marriage.

Serena, that's insane! How could they make such a big decision without your consent? Rowan said,

"I know, right? But I guess they believe they know what's best for me. They think I can still pursue my dreams while being married. We'll see about that." She said nodding

"Well, we'll be right here, supporting you every step of the way. You deserve to have your voice heard, Serena. Don't let anyone take that away from you." Louella assured her.

Serena smiles, grateful for her friends' unwavering support. As they walk towards their first class, determined to make the most of Serena's college years.

ANDERSON LIVING ROOM

A lavish living room, adorned with elegant furniture and beautiful paintings. MRS. Anderson, in her late 40s, sits tensely on the couch. MR. Anderson, a well-dressed but stern man in his early 50s, paces back and forth, clutching a file in his hand. Tension fills the air.

"Marcus, please reconsider this marriage for Serena. It's not fair to force her into this contract. She deserves to be happy, not trapped in an arrangement for the sake of your business." Mrs Anderson begged,

MR. Anderson stops his pacing, sighs, and turns to face his wife.

"Venita, when will you understand? This contract marriage is a golden opportunity for our business. It'll bring stability, alliances, and financial growth that we desperately need. Serena should be grateful for this opportunity." Marcus said harshly,

Mrs. Anderson's eyes well up with tears, her voice quivering.

"But Marcus, Serena's happiness should be our priority. It's her future we're playing with, not just our business. We should let her live her own life, make her own choices." Venita said

"I've made my decision, Venita! Our business is more important than any temporary happiness Serena may find. She will thank us in the long run when she inherits a thriving empire." Marcus stated angrily,

"But at what cost, Marcus? Can't you see how much we're hurting her? She deserves love, not a loveless contract marriage. Please, for once, put our daughter's well-being before your business."Venita said sobbing,

Tears stream down Mrs. Anderson's face as Mr. Anderson's expression turns cold.

"You've always been blinded by emotions, Venita, and I won't allow it to jeopardize our future. I won't discuss this any further." Marcus said harshly.

Venita sobs uncontrollably, her heart breaking, as Marcus storms out of the room without a backward glance. Left alone, Venita crumbles on the couch, and continued sobbing.

"Serena, my darling, I'll keep fighting for you. I won't let your father's obsession with his business overshadow your happiness." Venita whispered softly to herself.

She wipes away her tears, takes a deep breath, and strengthens her resolve to find a way out of this predicament, for the sake of her daughter.

Serena's Bedroom, Late Afternoon

Serena walks into her room, her face still red from frustration and anger. She swiftly closes the door behind her and collapses onto her bed, burying her face in her pillow. Louella and Rowan, her friends since high school, had joined her in the cafeteria after their chemistry class for their usual post-class gossip session. Today, the hot topic of discussion was the attractive boys in their class. It had lifted Serena's spirits momentarily, but now, the reality of her impending marriage contract weighs heavily on her mind.

Serena (teary-eyed): Why does my life have to be predetermined like this? I don't want to marry some stranger chosen by my dad!

She wipes away her tears and scrolls through her phone, searching for a distraction. However, every social media post that showcases friends living their lives freely only reminds her of the confined future awaiting her.

"I deserve a love story, not an arranged marriage. I want to fall in love naturally, on my own terms." She sobbed again,

Suddenly, she hears voices outside her bedroom door. Curiosity gets the better of her, and she slowly creeps toward the door, pressing her ear against it.

" ...and the merger will be mutually beneficial for both our companies. However, we need to finalize the deal by the end of this year, including Serena's marriage contract." Marcus said

"I understand the urgency, Mr Anderson. Rest assured, we will make sure Serena is well taken care of. Our families have a long-standing alliance, after all." The unknown voice said,

The conversation sends waves of anger and frustration coursing through Serena's veins. She clenches her fists, her knuckles turning white.

" Taken care of? Is that all I am? A pawn in their business deal?" She asked angrily,

Unable to contain her emotions any longer, Serena storms back into her room, slamming the door open and confronting her dad and the unknown man.

" What is this I hear about a marriage contract? Is this how little you think of me, Dad? Just a bargaining chip for a business deal?" She said again,

" Serena, I didn't expect you to be home so soon. We were just discussing a potential partnership with the Holloways, and a marriage contract is part of the agreement." Marcus said

"Serena, I assure you, your happiness is a priority for both our families. I'm very sure my son will take care of you." The unknown man said,

Serena's eyes dart between her dad and the unknown man. She takes a deep breath, trying to regain her composure.

" My happiness should not be determined by a business deal. I won't allow it. I have dreams and ambitions of my own, and I refuse to be trapped in a marriage I didn't choose." She explained,

"Serena, I understand your concerns, but sometimes sacrifices have to be made for the greater good. This is a decision we believed was best for both you and our companies." Marcus said,

Serena's frustration boils over, and she angrily storms past her father, heading toward her bed. She sits down at her desk, cradling her head in her hands.

"I deserve a chance to pursue my dreams, to fall in love on my own terms. Why does everything have to revolve around these business alliances?" She said sobbing quietly.

Louella and Rowan, concerned for their friend, had followed Serena to her room unnoticed. They exchange concerned glances before joining her side.

"Serena, we're here for you. We'll help you fight for the future you truly desire. No matter what it takes." Louella said supportively,

" You deserve to be happy, Serena. We'll make sure you get your chance at love and fulfillment. You're not alone in this." Rowan added,

Serena wipes away her tears, her face a mix of determination and gratitude.

" Thank you, guys. With you by my side, I know we can find a way to change my fate. I won't let this marriage contract define my future." She said with a Stern face.

MR HOLLOWAY'S LIVING ROOM

The room is elegantly decorated, with tasteful artwork adorning the walls. MR. Holloway, sits in a plush armchair, reading a newspaper. MRS. Holloway enters the room carrying a tray of tea.

(settling the tray on the coffee table)

"Darling, have you given any more thought to the marriage arrangements between Chester and Serena?" Mrs Holloway asked

"Yes, my dear. I've engaged the Andersons' wedding planner, and they seem quite pleased with the choice. they have such refined taste; I'm confident she'll have a vision for the perfect wedding. Mr Holloway said looking up from his newspaper.

The door opens, revealing Chester their son, dressed impeccably in a tailored tuxedo. His vibrant smile and confident demeanor light up the room.

"Good morning, Dad!" Chester greeted,

"Chester, my boy! You look dashing and handsome in that tuxedo. Your mother and I were just discussing the wedding arrangements with the Andersons." His dad said,

"Yes, Chester, we were just saying how fortunate you are to have such a wonderful match. Serena seems like the perfect partner for you, dear." His mum said excitedly,

Chester approaches his father, shaking his hand with gratitude.

"Thank you, Father. I'm indeed lucky to have found someone like Serena. Her charm, intelligence, and grace are truly unparalleled. I cannot wait to embark on this new journey with her." Chester said faking a smile.

"We have every faith in your choice, Chester. The union of our families will be a grand celebration, one that will be remembered for years to come." Mr Holloway said proudly,

Chester nods appreciatively.

"We should all sit down and discuss your ideas soon. It's important to make sure that this union is celebrated in the most befitting manner." Mrs Holloway said,

As Chester leaves the living room, his parents watch him with pride and astonishment.

"Our little boy is all grown up, isn't he?" Mrs Holloway said tearily,

"Indeed, my love. It feels like just yesterday when he used to run around the house causing troubles, Now, he's all set to marry into one of the most prominent families in town." Mr Holloway said,

They grip each other's hands, brimming with excitement and anticipation for the days to come.

STARBUCKS COMPANY

Chester, sat alone in his lavish office, surrounded by stacks of business files and an organized table. His mind, however, was far from the matters at hand. With a heavy sigh, he absentmindedly flipped through the papers, his thoughts wandering to his impending arranged marriage.

The concept had never felt real to Chester, Growing up in a household where business matters took precedence over personal relationships, he had observed his father's lifeless marriage with his mom, Love and happiness were mere things mentioned in fairy tales or movies he'd never paid much attention to. And now, he found himself into a similar situation, with a girl he didn't even know, in an arranged marriage he didn't care about.

Chester had grown accustomed to a life where his own ambitions and desires took precedence. He had worked tirelessly to climb the ladder, carving his path through pure determination and dedication. The thought of someone else, especially a stranger, damaging his plans was simply harsh to him.

As images of an unknown woman filled his mind, he scoffed, tossing a file onto the table with a touch of frustration. "Whoever she is, she better stay out of my lane," he muttered to himself, his voice laced with anger.

Chester was a man who valued control in every aspect of his life. His success in the business world had always come from his ability to make calculated decisions, devoid of emotions and distractions.

The idea of sacrificing his freedom for a predetermined union irritated him to no end. How could he be expected to walk hand in hand with a complete stranger, pretending to be in love? The thought made him cringe.

Chester shook his head, attempting to shake off his murky thoughts. In his mind, business had always taken precedence over personal satisfaction.

As he resumed his review of the files, his determination returned, fueling him once again. He immersed himself in financial projections, market analysis, and contracts, as if they were the only things that truly mattered. The arranged marriage would come and go, but his career aspirations would forever remain steadfast.

As the heir to the Holloway empire, he was determined to make his own path, with or without companionship. Love is just a distant fairy tale.

Chester leaned back in his plush leather chair, mentally preparing himself for another busy day at Starbucks headquarters. As the CEO, he constantly found himself engrossed in meetings, conferences, and an endless stream of paperwork. Today was no exception.

Just as he was about to dive into the stack of documents piled high on his desk, his secretary, Raine, entered the room with a sense of urgency. She dropped the files on the table and quickly approached Chester, her high heels clicking on the polished marble floor.

"Good morning, Mr. Chester," Raine greeted him with her usual professional demeanor. "Here are the files you requested for the upcoming conference. They contain the necessary information that needs to be discussed today."

Chester nodded in acknowledgment, glancing at the files briefly before returning his attention to Raine. He appreciated her efficiency and attention to detail. "Thank you, Raine. Anything else I need to know regarding my schedule today?"

Raine pulled out her iPad and briefly skimmed through her notes. "Yes, Mr. Chester. You have a conference starting in the next hour. It's an important meeting with our shareholders. They are particularly interested in discussing plans for uplifting the company and expanding our reach in the market."

Chester furrowed his brows, realizing the significance of the upcoming conference. He knew this was an opportunity to inspire confidence in the shareholders and solidify the future of Starbucks. "Thank you, Raine. Please make sure everything is set up for the meeting. I want it to run flawlessly."

Raine nodded, a glimpse of a smile appearing on her face. "Absolutely, Mr. Chester. I've already instructed the team to set up the conference room accordingly. It will be ready for you in an hour."

With a nod of approval, Chester focused his attention on the files Raine had just placed on the table. He delved into the information, reviewing the projections and proposals. Time seemed to slip away as he lost himself in the details, his mind racing with ideas and strategies.

An hour later, Chester entered the conference room with a calm and composed demeanor. The shareholders filled the spacious room, their expectant eyes turning towards him as he took his place at the head of the long table. Raine discreetly stood by the side, ready to assist if necessary.

Clearing his throat, Chester addressed the room, his voice filled with confidence and determination. "Good morning, everyone. Thank you all for joining us today. I appreciate your continued support and commitment to Starbucks."

The room fell silent, every shareholder waiting with anticipation for Chester's vision for the future of their beloved company. Chester knew he had to seize this moment, inspire, and rally everyone towards a united goal.

With eloquence and passion, Chester presented the plans and ideas he had formulated. He discussed market trends, consumer preferences, and upcoming innovations in the industry. The shareholders listened attentively, occasionally nodding in agreement or exchanging glances of excitement.

As the conference progressed, energy and enthusiasm filled the room. Shareholders began contributing their ideas, brainstorming ways to uplift the company and maximize its potential. Chester skillfully ended the conversation, encouraging collaboration, and creating an atmosphere of growth and progress.

The conference became a dynamic and engaging exchange, with everyone involved looking at a brighter future for Starbucks. Chester was proud of his team, his shareholders, and himself. They had come together, driven by their shared commitment and determination to make Starbucks an even greater success.

CONFERENCE ROOM

The conference room buzzed with enthusiasm as the final presentation came to an end. Applause filled the air, making Chester, the CEO of the company, stand tall with pride. He had successfully led his team to achieve remarkable results, and the feeling of accomplishment all over him.

Chester's heart swelled with satisfaction as his colleagues approached him, congratulating him on the outstanding outcome of the meeting. He humbly accepted their praise, exchanging kind words and acknowledging the hard work of his team.

His secretary, Raine, stood by his side, beaming with pride and admiration. She had witnessed Chester's unwavering dedication firsthand, and she couldn't help but feel inspired by his determination and leadership skills. As they made their way out of the conference room and through the bustling passage of the company, Chester noticed the workers bowing and exchanging whispers amongst themselves.

Women turned their heads, their eyes lighting up as Chester walked past them. Glimpses of admiration filled their expressions as they whispered sweet nothings about his mesmerizing charm and bright aura. It wasn't just Chester's brilliant mind and business sense that captivated everyone, but also his good looks and undeniable sex appeal.

Chester kept his focus forward, never letting the attention distract him from his objective. He was a man of action, always driven by his next goal. Raine who had efficiently handled all the arrangements for the conference, knew Chester's dedication also extended to his own well-being.

Just as Chester was about to step into his office, he turned towards Raine and uttered, "Raine, I'm famished. Please get me some lunch, something quick and delicious. You know what I like." His voice carried an air of urgency.

Raine's eyes gleamed, sensing her boss's hunger. She swiftly nodded, heading towards her desk to place the lunch order. Knowing Chester's taste for variety, she added a note on the side for the chef to surprise him with a mix of his favorite dishes.

As Chester entered into his office, he let out a contented sigh of relief. He sinked into the plush leather chair.

Minutes later, a knock on the door interrupted Chester's temporary relaxation. It was Raine, carrying a tray filled with the enticing aroma of his favorite lunch. The rich scent of herbs and spices saint through the air, making him even hungrier.

"Here you go, Mr Chester. Your delicious lunch awaits," Raine said with a smile, placing the tray on Chester's desk. She couldn't help but admire his dedication to both the company and his own well-being.

Chester's face lit up at the sight of the carefully arranged dishes. The colorful assortment of delicacies, each meticulously prepared, made his mouth water in anticipation. He thanked Raine, acknowledging her efficiency.

Chester found himself savoring not only the delicious food but also the sweet taste of success.

COFFEE SHOP

Serena sits at a corner booth, sipping on her latte, lost in her thoughts. Her friends, Louella and Rowan, slide into the booth with excited smiles, carrying shopping bags filled with new clothes.

"Hey Serena, what's on your mind?" Louella asked excitedly??

Rowan nudges Serena playfully, trying to bring her out of her thoughts.

"Yeah, you've been distant lately. What's going on, Serena?" Rowan asked with a smile,

Serena sighs and looks down at her cup, her voice filled with a hint of sadness.

"Well, you both know that the day of my arranged marriage is in just two weeks, and I can't help but feel overwhelmed by it all." Serena said gently

Louella reaches across and squeezes Serena's hand, her eyes full of empathy.

"I know it must be tough for you, Serena. But remember, you're strong and independent. Don't let this arranged marriage define you." Louella said,

"Absolutely! We're here to support you, no matter what you decide. However, today is about forgetting all those worries and having a great time together." Rowan said smiling

A spark of curiosity begins to flicker in Serena's eyes, as her friends exchange mischievous glances.

"Alright, you two. What do you have in mind?" Serena asked with a smile,

"We got tickets to the amusement park. Come on, Serena, let's ride all the thrilling roller coasters and forget about everything else!" Louella yelled excitedly

Rowan pulls Serena up from her seat, bouncing with enthusiasm.

"That's right! And I heard they just added a brand new, terrifying one. We'll scream our hearts out and unleash all that tension!" Rowan said laughing loudly

Serena's lips curl into a hesitant smile, feeling the warmth of her friends' love and support.

"Alright... Let's do it. Let's ride that roller coaster!" Serena said.

Louella and Rowan erupt with cheers, embracing Serena tightly. They stood up and left the coffee shop, making their way to the amusement park.

AMUSEMENT PARK

Serena, Louella, and Rowan stand in front of a towering, looping roller coaster. Serena's fear mixes with excitement as they wait in line.

As they finally board the coaster, Serena feels her heart race, the wind whipping through her hair. The carriage ascends slowly, With a sudden jolt, they're hurtling through twists, turns, and upside-down loops, their screams of joy filling the air.

"This is incredible! I feel so alive!" Serena screamed,

Louella and Rowan, laughing alongside her, exchange proud glances. In that moment, Serena realizes that life is full of unexpected moments, and her love and laughter with her friends can overshadow any challenges that come her way.

As the roller coaster finally comes to a stop, Serena steps off. The three friends embrace, their laughter echoing through the amusement park.

AMUSEMENT PARK

"Alright, my fellow thrill-seekers! What's next on the agenda?" She asked excitedly,

"Well, what about showcasing your other talent, Skating Queen?" Louella bowed playfully,

(nudging Serena playfully)

"Yeah, Serena, we all know you have some pretty impressive moves on wheels." Rowan said

Serena's smile blossoms. She nods eagerly, leading her friends through the bustling amusement park towards the roller skating rink nearby. The rhythmic sounds of skates gliding over the smooth surface greet them as they enter.

The rink is crowded with skaters of varying skill levels, but Serena seems determined. She laces up her skates skillfully, her fingers moving with practiced ease. The roller rink falls into silence as spectators Serena's presence, her reputation as the Skating Queen preceding her.

Serena steps onto the rink, her body instantly finding its rhythm. The music resonates through her, filling her entire being with an infectious energy. She begins to glide flawlessly, performing simple tricks with the grace of a seasoned performer.

Gasps of awe and admiration escape the lips of lookers as Serena twirls, jumps, and skates backward effortlessly. The crowd becomes a sea of applause, their cheers blending together in an overwhelming chorus of support. Serena's face lights up, her expression a mix of concentration and pure joy.

Encouraged by the audience's appreciation, Serena's movements become even more daring, her speed increasing as she weaves in and out of skaters. She loses herself in the act, letting go of any tension or worries that may have been lingering within her.

Finally, Serena reaches the end of her performance, her body glowing with satisfaction and accomplishment. The roller rink erupts into a thunderous ovation, applause sinking through the air. Serena takes a deep bow, her heart bursting with gratitude and a profound sense of fulfillment.

As Serena looks up at her friends who are beaming with pride, she realizes that it's not just her skating skills that are exceptional, but the unwavering support and love of Louella and Rowan who have made her to be the best Skating Queen she is today.