Forced to Marry The Arrogant Billionaire Heir

“Director Jones, I hope you’re aware that if we invest in this project, we’re trusting you to handle whatever risk that comes with it. This matter is taking too long to deliberate on, and I think given your previous records, you are more than trustworthy enough to sign this deal with.”“Trust me ladies and gentlemen, you won’t regret this investment. It’s going to be revolutionary, not just for the company, but for every investor and stock holder that chooses to trust us,” I say calmly with a hint of authority and lean forward, steepling my hands, smiling to pass a message that I am clearly in control of this situation.The room fell into a pindrop silence before slow mutterings and head nods of approval passed between the long table of investors before me. I felt a sense of pride wash over me as I stood up to make my way out — shoulders raised with mindblowing achievement.It took weeks to convince these people to invest generously into a project that was sure to earn me extra points

“I cannot believe this! It’s insane Hazel. Do arranged marriages still even happen?”Well, my father is a psychotic sadist, so yes, anything is possible with him as long as it benefits or entertains him. Even if it means sacrificing his child’s life. I can never put it past him to do.“What are you going to do now Hae…”“Will you put the damn bread down and listen. Oh my goodness, am I the only one panicking?I think I'm the only one panicking.” I look at my best friend anxiously pacing round the room.I let out a heavy sigh and dropped the flour goodness Freya excitedly brought me this morning before I broke the news to her. Now she’s sitting on my couch with her head between her palms, waiting for a response from me.“I lose everything…”“I lose my current position, everything I've worked hard for over the years will be gone, taken from me. I can’t handle that Fre, I-I just can’t”. I felt my voice break at the end. I tried to play it off cool, but damn this is just bullcrap.“Now I

My wedding preparations are ongoing. It would have been a small ceremony if it were left to me. It’s not like I’m marrying a man I fell in love with — he still is a stranger to me.But Mrs De Luca… my bad, Rose wants it to be as big and luxurious as possible. She’s been waiting for this day since Alex could walk.Rose managed to have my contact info and is getting me involved as much as possible, amidst my busy schedule. She insisted I call her Rose since I’m about to be her daughter-in-law.I sigh and drop the papers I need to review before the end of the day.“What’s wrong? do you need help with anything?” Freya asked, concerned that I’ve been overworking myself for the past two weeks.“It’s nothing, I’m just thinking about the whole wedding charade.” I think I need some coffee.Freya works in the same room with me, unlike other secretaries who work from right outside. I love her close by, and it's more convenient for both of us this way.“I know it's hard, but there’s no going back

The ride to Alex’s house was long and suffocating, even though we rode in two separate cars. I sat stiffly in the backseat letting my mind wander, staring blankly out the tainted window as the city lights blurred hazily. My wedding gown, as beautiful as it was — bless Rose, felt like a shackle pressing down on my chest making breathing a chore. The ceremony went performatively. The guests cheered and wished us a happily wed life as we plastered fake smiles on our faces. The tension between both our families was hard to miss, but they tried their best to mask it. Rose looked tired, Arthur had a clipped expression throughout while supporting his wife. Father ignored me completely — not that I was expecting his attention anyway. Veronica had a smug suspicious look throughout the wedding, she didn’t look too happy, like she was expecting us not to go through with the wedding. James and Lexi couldn’t look more bored.Who could’ve possibly sent those pictures…? Veronica? Lexi?I wouldn’t

Alex’s POV“Uncle Alex! Uncle Alex!!” Aira, my six year old niece, squealed excitedly and dived headfirst into me. The smell of something fresh and sweet filled my senses once I pushed the door close.I let out an “umph” sound. She’s really strong for her age and how tiny she is. But what do you expect from a sugar-induced child.“Look who missed uncle.” I pat down her wild brown curls that framed her rosy cheeks.“No I don’t, I only miss the chocolates you bring me.” She giggled and stretched her little grabby hands forward to receive her offering. “I’m ready now.”“I didn’t bring any,” I teased her. “And I’m glad I didn’t since someone doesn't love me enough. She’s just using me to sate her sweet tooth.”“But… but… I was only joking… I did miss you,” Her forearm rubbed an invisible teardrop from her eyes as she faked hiccuped. This drama queen, I sighed.I crouched down to her level and grasped her cheek with one of my hands, while the other reached for the chocolate I hid inside my