Chapter 3

My hand was still shaking, but I tried to hide it. Frustrated, I rubbed my temple.

"Sweetie, dinner's ready," my mom called in her gentle voice.

"Okay, mom. I'll be there in a minute."

"I'll be waiting, sweetheart."

I felt a surge of panic, my heart pounding. Despite the wedding tomorrow, I was filled with guilt. As I approached the table where my mom was waiting, the feelings only intensified.

"Was that Stella on the phone?"

"Yes, mom," I lied, avoiding her gaze and focusing on the food in front of me.

After we finished dinner, I insisted on doing the dishes. When I told my mom to take a break, she smiled at me.

"Thank you, sweetie."

"I love you, mom."

"I love you too, dear. But you need to get some rest."

"Of course, mom."

"Good night, sweetie."

"Good night, mom."

Alone, I couldn't help but think about the stranger's strange behavior at the party. I was shocked at myself for falling for someone I hardly knew. Stella was right; I was acting out of character. And it was all because of my cheating ex-boyfriend!

In frustration, I clenched my fists. I decided to stay in my room for the rest of the night. I opened the door and walked in, heading straight for my comfortable bed. I laid down on the soft mattress.

I had to admit, I had been a bit of a handful and unpredictable. I sighed deeply. But as tiredness started to take over, I gave in to sleep, resting my head on the soft pillow. I didn't bother changing out of my clothes; sleep was more important at this point.

*-*-*-*

(The Wedding)

As two skilled hairstylists worked on my hair, I felt a wave of anxiety wash over me. Looking in the mirror, I barely recognized the person looking back at me.

"You look absolutely beautiful," one of them said, trying to reassure me. I hadn't expected such a transformation, from an awkward duckling to a beautiful swan.

My mom looked at me with worry. "Sweetie, it's not too late. You can still get back out of this wedding."

"I've made up my mind, mom," I said firmly. "This isn't just about me, it's about you too. I'm willing to make sacrifices for the people I care about."

"That's your decision," she said. "Just remember to always do what feels right to you."

Unfortunately, my kind boss told me that his son might be a little late, clearly showing his disapproval of the arrangement. It was obvious that he didn't want to marry me.

An hour passed and he still hadn't shown up, but I was determined to fulfill Mr. Robert Smith wish for his son and me to marry.

Then, an hour later, he finally arrived. He was incredibly handsome, with sharp features and a striking look. His face was expressionless, showing no emotion.

The guests gasped when he walked in. I had never imagined him to be so perfect.

"There he is, Elizabeth," Mr. Robert Smith said, clearly delighted at his son's arrival.

"I'm nervous, sir. He seems very strict," I admitted.

"He does have a certain way about him," he agreed. "But I ask you to be patient with my son."

"I will do my best for you, sir. Your kindness has earned my deepest gratitude and I owe you so much."

"Now that you're marrying my son, you can call me Dad."

It was strange, but I felt drawn to Mr. Robert Smith. As Cassian Smith approached, my heart pounded in my chest, his striking looks becoming even more pronounced.

The judge, who had been waiting, smiled even wider. "I'm glad to see the groom has finally arrived." The judge looked genuinely happy.

"My son always keeps his promises, doesn't he, son?"

Cassian Smith just grinned at his father's question, looking completely at ease.

As he looked at me, I felt a strange sensation, making my knees weak. His eyes held a dangerous allure.

"Hello, my future wife. I never thought my father would find such a beautiful woman for me. Funny, isn't it?"

I could feel my cheeks getting hot. I struggled to find the right words. The judge's surprised gasp echoed in my ears.

"Cassian, don't try to intimidate your future wife," Mr. Robert Smith warned his son, trying to keep his cool.

"Judge, I'm just trying to make my bride-to-be laugh. Can we get started so I can give my bride a kiss?" Cassian's words made my heart race.

I swallowed hard, feeling incredibly nervous. It was hard to believe this incredibly handsome man was about to become my husband.

When the judge finally finished, a strange smile spread across Cassian's face. I held my breath as he leaned in and kissed me.

His lips met mine and I felt butterflies in my stomach. The familiar yet foreign sensation of his kiss washed over me, but I quickly pushed him away when memories of the stranger I had been with flooded back.

I could hear the crowd murmuring at my reaction. "I'm sorry, I was just surprised. Please forgive me."

Cassian looked taken aback, but then he chuckled, a deep, rich sound that somehow eased the tension in the room. "It's alright. This is new for both of us," he said, his voice soft.

The crowd seemed to relax, and the judge gave a small nod. "Well then, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

This time, Cassian's kiss was gentle, almost hesitant. It was a stark contrast to the passionate encounter I'd had with the stranger. As our lips met, I felt a strange sense of peace washing over me.

The crowd erupted into applause, pulling me back to reality. I pulled away from Cassian, blushing as I looked out at the sea of smiling faces.

"Congratulations, you two," Mr. Robert Smith said, beaming at us.

"Thank you, Dad," Cassian replied. Then he turned to me, his eyes soft. "Thank you, Elizabeth."

As the celebrations continued, I couldn't help but feel a sense of apprehension. I was now married to a man I barely knew, and yet, there was a part of me that was looking forward to getting to know him.

But as I thought back to the stranger from the party, I couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt that washed over me. I had a secret, one that could potentially ruin my new marriage.

I shook off the thoughts, forcing a smile on my face as I turned to face my new husband. Whatever happened, I was going to make this work. For my mom, for Mr. Robert Smith, and for me.