Chapter 3

Jenny’s heart pounded as she made her way downstairs. Voices drifted from the living room—deep, authoritative voices she didn’t recognize. Her palms grew damp, and panic fluttered through her chest. She had never felt so unprepared in her life.

As she pushed open the door, all eyes immediately turned toward her.

A group of well-dressed individuals sat around the coffee table. In the center were a man and woman whose presence instantly demanded respect. One glance told her who they were—Richard Logard’s parents.

A wave of fear washed over her. She didn’t know what to say, how to stand, or even how to breathe. What if they could see her fear? What if they judged her unworthy?

“Hello, Jenny,” Richard’s mother said warmly. Her voice was soft, elegant, and unexpectedly welcoming. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”

Jenny forced a polite smile and shook her hand.

“It’s nice to meet you too,” she said, trying to steady her trembling voice.

But when she turned to Richard’s father, she froze.

He wasn’t smiling. His expression was sharp, observant—measuring her like she was a piece of glass he wasn’t sure wouldn’t crack.

“Hope you weren’t forced into this marriage by your parents?” he asked bluntly, eyes narrowed as if searching for a lie.

“No, sir. I… I made the decision myself,” Jenny replied nervously, her fingers twisting together.

“We can never force our children into something they don’t want,” Emma cut in quickly, eager to create a good impression. Robert nodded, confirming her words.

Richard’s mother smiled again. “I know you must be wondering why we arrived so early.”

Jenny nodded cautiously.

“We were eager to meet the young woman who finally agreed to be our son’s wife—after so many… refusals. And I’m sure you’ve heard a lot about him already.”

Jenny swallowed and nodded again, her eyes scanning the room instinctively.

“Where is Richard?” she asked quietly.

“He’s busy with work,” Richard’s father said in a tone that left no room for argument. “But you will meet him tomorrow at the registrar’s office.”

Jenny blinked.

“Tomorrow? How?”

Richard’s father leaned back and folded his arms.

“You’re getting married tomorrow.”

Silence settled heavily over the room.

Robert’s eyes widened. “Mr. Logard, the date… it’s too soon. Could you please give us some time?”

“The arrangements are already made,” Mr. Logard replied coolly. “We will see you tomorrow morning, Miss Anderson.”

There was no space to argue. No room to beg.

After a few minutes of forced small talk, Richard’s family rose to leave. Richard’s father shook Jenny’s hand again—this time with a firm, intimidating grip.

“We’re glad to have you join our family,” he said, though his tone felt colder than before.

Richard’s mother gave her a warm hug, but Jenny caught a flicker of something in her eyes—something unreadable… something dangerous.

Then they were gone.

Jenny stood in the living room, frozen. Her chest felt tight, her hands cold. She had expected fear, but not like this. Not this suffocating uncertainty.

Robert stepped closer. “Are you okay?” he asked gently. “I know that was overwhelming.”

Jenny nodded slowly, unable to find her voice. Overwhelming wasn’t even the right word. Her future had been sealed in a matter of minutes.

As she walked upstairs, her mind spun.

Am I ready for this? Can I handle being his wife? What if I disappoint everyone?

Every horrible rumor she’d heard about Richard echoed louder in her head.

She finally lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling, drowning in questions.

What if they treat me badly? What if he hurts me? What if my life becomes worse?

Her soul shook with fear until exhaustion finally dragged her into a restless sleep.

★★★★ NEXT DAY — 8 AM ★★★★

Jenny stood in front of the mirror, smoothing the simple white dress she had chosen. Today, she would marry Richard Logard—a man she had never met, a man the world called ruthless, cold, and terrifying.

Her reflection stared back with wide, frightened eyes.

Was she ready to be someone’s wife?

A stranger’s wife?

A devil’s wife?

She was slipping her shoes on when the door handle turned. Amy walked in, looking gorgeous—glowing like she was the bride.

“Congratulations, sis,” Amy said, her lips curving into a mocking smirk. “I would’ve loved to attend the wedding, but I’m needed at the company. Make sure you take lots of pictures and send them to me.”

They both knew Jenny wouldn’t get the chance.

“I will. Thanks,” Jenny replied softly.

She grabbed her small purse and headed toward the door.

Behind her, Amy’s smile melted into bitterness.

She hated—hated—that Jenny looked more beautiful than her even now, with all the expensive makeup and hours she spent getting ready. Jealousy burned inside her.

“Your life will crumble soon enough,” Amy whispered under her breath. “Let’s see how long you last with a monster.”

Amy breezed past her family, waved goodbye, and drove off without a second glance.

Jenny, Robert, and Emma entered their car moments later.

As they pulled out of the driveway, Jenny stared silently out the window.

Today… her life would change forever.

For better—or for worse.

No one knew.

Not even her.