Chapter 3

Gabriella 's POV

We stood in front of the cameras, their flashes blinding us, while a pack of cameramen trailed behind, capturing our every move. As we made our way towards our private plane, I couldn't help but feel trapped in this media circus. Putting on a fake smile, I glanced at Diego , who was equally struggling to maintain his composure. The incessant clicking of the cameras made it evident that we were growing weary, yet it appeared that nobody really cared.

"It seems we're stuck here for a while," I murmured, my words laced with forced cheerfulness. Diego , trying his best to hide his frustration, mustered a smile in response. We both knew that we couldn't escape the relentless paparazzi, but how did they even manage to infiltrate the runway? We would have to address this issue with the person in charge.

Diego voiced his bewilderment, "I don't understand how they gained access to the runway. We'll need to have a discussion with the responsible party." I shook my head in agreement, turning around to face him. Seeking solace in his embrace, I allowed him to wrap his arms around me from behind, pulling me close to his chest.

"For the time being, let's leave without further delay. We can address any necessary discussions with the person in charge at a later time, wouldn't you agree?" I inquired, raising an eyebrow at him as he responded with a nod. He leaned in, resting his chin on my shoulder, and then, planting a lingering kiss on my lips, he withdrew and waved at the press.

With his arm securely wrapped around my waist, he guided me towards the awaiting plane. As we stepped inside, a sense of relief washed over us when we noticed that all the windows were tightly shut, ensuring that no more photographs could be taken.

Diego released his arm from around me and, turning to his chaperone, he removed his jacket and rolled up his sleeves. He casually unbuttoned the first three buttons of his shirt while running his fingers through his hair.

I felt a deep sense of gratitude for having made the decision to change into a different wedding dress earlier. Now, I was adorned in an elegant white knee-length gown, complemented by silver heels.

"Mr. and Mrs. Lopez , is there anything specific you would like us to serve you? Perhaps a pre-flight beverage?" one of the flight attendants inquired, stepping into the compartment.

Diego responded curtly from his seat, engrossed in his phone, "A glass of scotch for will do."

I chimed in, requesting politely, "May I please have a glass of juice? Any fruit option would be perfect." The flight attendant acknowledged my request and took a step back.

As I settled into my seat, I let my hair down, seeking a bit more comfort. I didn't bother speaking to or looking at Diego , fully aware that he wouldn't spare me a second glance. His arrogance was already too much to bear, and I had no interest in aligning myself with his ego.

A few minutes later, the woman returned and served him first, completely disregarding me. With a smile, I gave her a polite nod of appreciation. Meanwhile, Diego barely acknowledged her presence as he quickly downed his drink. "Get me another one," he demanded.

Confusion etched across my face, I waited for the woman to leave before expressing my disapproval. "Isn't it a bit too early to be consuming so much alcohol?"

"Does it concern you? Or better yet, did I even ask for your opinion?" he retorted, causing me to frown.

"You don't have to be so rude about it. I was simply pointing out the fact that you're drinking excessively, especially considering we still have a long journey ahead," I said, taking a sip of my juice. He shook his head dismissively before abruptly rising from his chair and advancing toward me.

Placing his hands on either side of my chair, he startled me, nearly causing me to spill my drink on my dress. His intense glare pierced through me.

I felt the warmth of his breath against my face, and a wave of unease washed over me, making me acutely aware of his inappropriate behavior. "You have no right to meddle in my affairs or dictate what I should or shouldn't do, do you understand?" Yes , yes, I asserted, my voice tinged with self-consciousness.

There was a brief pause as I contemplated my next move. Placing my drink carefully on the armrest, I reached out and gently pressed my hand against his chest, urging him to step back. Confusion clouded his expression as I rose from my seat to confront him directly. Arching an eyebrow, I subtly motioned towards the flight attendant who stood frozen nearby, her eyes wide with fear, witnessing our interaction.

Diego 's attention shifted to the flight attendant, who averted her gaze, nervously fixing her eyes on the floor. Hastily, she placed the drink she was holding on the nearby table before hurrying out of the room, leaving us alone in that tense moment.

As I confronted him, I calmly asserted, "The next time you contemplate intimidating me with your menacing glares, bear in mind that I possess the same ability. Contrary to your perception, I am not the 'feeble' woman you wish to believe I am." With determination, I brushed past him and proceeded towards the bathroom. The man stood motionless, frozen in his position, while I entered the confined space of the stall. Gazing at my reflection, I took a deep breath and folded my arms across my chest, attempting to regain control over my breathing.

Echoes of my parents' words reverberated in my mind, reminding me that a single misstep could not only jeopardize my own life but also unravel all the progress I had achieved. Fear surged through my veins, yet I endeavored to maintain composure in order to navigate this challenging situation.

There was so much riding on our marriage, especially when it came to my own safety and dignity. I simply couldn't bear the humiliation that would come my way or the excruciating pain I would have to endure if I made even the slightest misstep. Taking a deep breath, I washed my hands and face, reaching for a towel to dry off. With a determined nod, I gathered my resolve.

"You've got this, Gabriella . Just stay focused and keep your eye on the prize. You can overcome this," I reassured myself, turning away from the bathroom and making my way towards the chair. As I approached, I noticed Diego seated there, leisurely sipping his drink.

"I take it your little pep talk worked wonders?" he remarked without bothering to look up at me. Without waiting for my response, he continued in a tone that sent shivers down my spine, forcing me to remain seated. "Remember, if you ever dare to challenge me again, I won't be as calm, quiet, or forgiving. I suggest you bear that in mind, Gabriella ."