Chapter 3: Your body is mine

AVERY'S POV

“What is your boss like?” I asked no one in particular.

The drive to my new husband's house was quiet and filled with worry. He hadn't joined me in the car, which made me wonder what he was hiding. I knew absolutely nothing about this man with whom I was supposed to share my life.

“He is a man of his word, and just in all his dealings.”

What else was I expecting? He was their boss, so they were probably just like him. Still, I had hoped for a better response than one that sounded like recited scripture.

“Does he have an issue with being around people?”

"Boss loves his privacy.”

I see… That explained his reason for driving alone.

"Okay." I could not think of a better response.

“Mrs. Armstrong, is there anything you’d like to get on our way to the mansion?”

“No, thanks." I couldn't help but wonder aloud, “What does your boss like to do for fun?” It was hopeless asking these questions, but I wanted to know something about him—anything.

“With time you will get to know him, Mrs. Armstrong.” Of course they wouldn't tell me anything. “I see.”

I stared out the window at nothing in particular. I couldn't wait to get out of the car and rest my head for a bit. Then, my eyes caught sight of a beautiful mansion.

“Magnificent,” I breathed in astonishment. “I've never seen anything like it.”

To my surprise, the car drove right through the front gate.

“We’re glad you like it. This is your home now.”

Mr. Armstrong owned this magnificent beauty of a house? That explained his arrogance.

“Mr. Armstrong sure has good taste and loads of money.”

“Indeed your husband does.”

My husband… I repeated the words to myself. This was my reality. I was married to a complete stranger. Life here could only be worse or better than where I was coming from. Heaven knows I hoped it would be better.

They led me inside the house, and it felt like heaven. The expensive-looking furniture, the artwork, the tall glass fixtures, and the unstained white paint all screamed luxury and power. I even caught a glimpse of a golden gun displayed as art on the wall.

“Let me show you to your room.”

I turned at the sound of my husband's voice. Could I ever get used to those eyes? He could command the devil if he wanted to; he just had that aura. Wait… my room, not our room? Perfect.

Sheepishly, I walked toward him and let him guide me. He opened the door to a bedroom and urged me to step inside.

“Thank you, Mr. Armstrong.”

“Call me Aiden.” His voice was soft, yet it carried an air of absolute authority.

"I've contacted Sky Fashion. They'll need to know your preferences and sizes. Just…” He paused, looking slightly out of his element. “I don't know, fill it out here. You'll get some of your orders today."

I held back a laugh. He seemed quite confused about this, and honestly, so was I. It was funny seeing this terrifying man look so bewildered—a feeling he probably hated.

"Done." I handed the tablet back to him. "I would like to be left alone now, if you don't mind."

He looked at me with raised eyebrows. Yeah, I shocked myself with that one, too.

"Of course. Rest as much as you want. Food will be sent up soon. I'll be back later."

"Thank you. Back for what?"

Why come back if this room was supposed to be mine? He gave me a strange smile and walked out. I wondered what went on inside his head.

After my nap, I decided to explore the mansion. I eventually came across a door that looked incredibly weird. Everything else in the house was delicate, precious art, with luxury in every corner. But this particular door looked like it had seen better days, as if it were from a hundred years ago. A black 'X' was drawn across it. It practically screamed that entry was forbidden.

I took a few steps closer, even though my brain was screaming at me to leave.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you. That room is off-limits." Startled, I turned to look at the person behind the voice. She was beautiful, with dark brown hair and piercing green eyes.

"I was just curious. I'm sorry... Who are you?"

"You will find out soon." She smirked, sized me up, and walked away.

I went back to my room and lay down in bed, staring at the patterns on the ceiling and watching the rapid spin of the fan blades. My phone rang, breaking my trance.

"Avery! Avery, I'm so sorry! How are you? What did they do to you? I couldn't get help because your stepmom had me tied up. I'm so sorry!" Keisha rushed out from the other end of the line.

"Keisha, I'm so sorry too. I should have known she wouldn't let you go. I'm alright; I'm married."

"Married?"

I just didn't want to go over the details today. Maybe I would wake up tomorrow and find out this was all a nightmare.

"Yeah. I'll fill you in tomorrow. Take care of yourself for me."

"Alright. Good night, Avery."

"Good night, Kiki."

Why was it so quiet? I closed my eyes and let sleep engulf me.

Later, the sensation of large hands moving over my skin and sliding underneath my dress chased my sleep away. I sat up abruptly, ready to bolt for the door, but those hands held me firmly in place.

“Who are you?” I demanded, hoping my voice didn't betray my terror.

“Easy. It's me, your husband.”

I calmed down slightly at his response. Better the devil you know than the one you don't, right? Not that I actually knew him anyway.

“Why are you here?”

Instead of replying, he pressed his lips against mine. The kiss was gentle, and his lips tasted sweet, like fine wine and berries. This was completely unexpected. It was my first kiss, and it felt magical.

He parted my legs with his hands, touching me where no man ever had before. I should have screamed. I should have pushed him away. Instead, I found myself moaning into his mouth, aching for more.

He trailed hot kisses down to my neck, sucking and licking gently until my breath quickened. A part of me wanted to beg him to stop, but another part wanted him to do so much more.

Then, his finger slid inside me. My senses instantly returned. “No, please stop.”

He ignored my pleas and my struggles. He held me tightly, pinning me in place. His thumb began to circle my clit while he pumped slowly inside me. I moaned shamelessly.

“Stop touching me.”

“Your body says something completely different.” He nipped at my neck and pressed a little harder against my clit. I let out a moan, completely contradicting my own request.

“Why are you doing this?”

“Don't question me, Avery. Your body is mine. You belong to me.” He added another finger, letting out a sharp gasp. “Let's consummate this marriage, wife.”