His Substitute Bride

North’s POV The voice, the cologne and masculine scent belonged to only one person. “Finn.” I gulped, sinking into the wall. A few moments later, the lights were turned on and just like I had imagined, standing in front of me was no other person than Finn Timber, my ex boyfriend.Frozen with shock, I remained in a position, my eyes fixated on him as my heartbeat doubled. After three years of being apart, I never thought even for a moment that we were going to cross paths again, at least not like this. Despite the separation, Finn still struck a nerve in me. As usual, he stood tall with the same air of arrogance that made my insides clench as memories of our breakup came rushing back. Finn and I were the perfect couples. Among our friends, we were voted to be the next power couples and our separation came as a surprise to them. Being a conglomerate heir, Finn wanted a more sophisticated career for me. He was never in support of my career choice and had told me several times to st

North's POV Sitting in the middle of the dressing room, a large frown spread over my face as the beautician worked expertly to give me her desired look. A few moments ago, I was a chef. Fast forward to now, I am now the bride.Not to the prince charming I have always dreamt of but to Finn Timber. Ugh!This was sickening. Finn was good at using someone’s weakness against them. He knew what I needed and so he decided to use that to win me over. I wanted to refuse but weighing his offer, I couldn't afford to. With his help, I will be able to make a name for myself in the catering industry and I will be set up for life. It’s just three months, I have nothing to lose. – I thought but deep down, my mind was undergoing an emotional turmoil. Six months with Finn was like six months with the devil. “You’re frowning too hard, you should smile a little.” The beautician said, bringing me back to the present. The moment she stepped aside, the tailor came in and soon I began to try differ

Finn's POVSeeing father, Elijah and Liam at the front of the mansion was the least I expected.A warm welcome? No way! If it had been only Elijah, it would suffice but father and then Liam that hated me with everything he had inside of him, I doubt. Rolling my eyes, I slowly approached the trio with North by my side. North never went below my expectations. Her acting skills were now on a whole different level making one think we are level headed when it was the direct opposite. It was supposed to end there but father decided to take it further, “Are you guys really married?" His question didn't come as a surprise to me. I was expecting him to toss it at us the moment we appeared before him but he delayed it. North tried to speak but I held my hand. She might be good but not when my father was involved. He wasn't someone she would be able to go against. “You watched the marriage on TV." I shot at him. “The media presents whatever it's handed to it. It doesn't separate fake fr

North’s POVThe first thought that came to mind was to lunge at her and grab her hands but somehow I was able to hold back from doing so.The last time I shared a room with Finn was three years ago and since then I vowed not to make a repeat of it. But now, it was void now just as my resolution of having nothing to do with him. "North, are you okay?” Elijah asked, her tone tingling with concern. Nodding vigorously, I flashed her a smile."Thank you.” I was still wearing my smile so she wouldn't suspect anything. "I will see you in the morning.” After giving my shoulder a squeeze, she took her leave.Taking a deep breath, I grabbed the handle of the door and then pushed it open only to see Finn’s broad back turned on me.Biting the inside of my cheek, I closed the door behind me gently as I walked further into the room. Beside Finn were snack wrappers and a half eaten bag of chips was in his hand. He was chewing like he hadn’t eaten in days, his eyes locked on the ceiling like he

North’s POVThe next morning, I woke up to warmth, not the one from the sunlight but the one that will make your heart do a stupid skip.Finn’s arms were wrapped loosely around my waist like he owned me. His breath fanned the back of my neck, sending goosebumps racing down my spine. And pressed right up against me?His morning wood.I blinked at the sunlight streaming through the curtains, trying to ignore the heat rushing to my cheeks. The pillows I had used to divide the bed were on the floor. I tried not to breathe.Tried not to react.But his arm tightened even more.“Morning, North. You look cozy.” He whispered into my ear, causing me to jump out of my skin in fright as I rolled off the bed.I had no idea that he was awake.“You… I… What the hell happened to the pillow?” I gulped, trying to keep a steady gaze. “You snuggled into my chest last night." He teased, a lazy smirk tugging the side of his lips. “You keep acting like you don't want me but your body says otherwise." “