Chapter 0003

The Kingsleys had spent a few million dollars to get a customized wedding dress from a well-known designer in Southsdon.

Even though Valerie was wearing a wedding dress that cost millions of dollars, she didn't seem happy at all.

She looked at her reflection in the mirror. The red spots on her face had disappeared, and she was back to how she usually looked.

Her youthful appearance and chubby cheeks made her look younger than she actually was. Well, she wasn't very old to begin with anyway.

Emma walked into the room and signaled for the makeup artists to leave, leaving the mother and daughter alone in the room.

"Valerie, you shouldn't have agreed to the marriage."

Valerie smiled as she comforted Emma. "It's all right. Getting married sounds like fun."

Emma placed a hand on top of Valerie's head. There was a flash of guilt in her eyes as she tenderly caressed her daughter's head. "Valerie, why did Mr. Kingsley ask you to stay back that day?"

Valerie paused as she recalled the conversation she had with William.

"Valerie, do you know what happens if you offend the Kingsleys?"

Valerie had stayed silent.

William continued, "You seem to be aware, but the look in your eyes tells me that you're not afraid of us at all.

"Have you considered your parents? Or your brother? You can't be so selfish."

There was a pause before he continued, "I'm sure you know what happened to the Chesters."

Valerie's eyes had widened as she stared at William in disbelief.

The Chesters used to be an old and distinguished family in Zolford. They had been powerful, their business had been doing well, and they had also had a great network of allies.

However, the Chesters mysteriously went bankrupt. Some of the members of the family who held high positions in the government were imprisoned, while the others escaped to another country.

The Woods' standing was nothing compared to how powerful the Chesters had been back then. If the Kingsleys were to do the same thing to the Woods, then …

Valerie dared not even think about what would happen to her family.

At that thought, she had clenched her fists unconsciously. It had taken her a while before she asked, "Mr. Kingsley, why me?"

William had laughed in response. There had even been a hint of mirth in his eyes. "It's a funny story. I'll tell you when the time comes."

Valerie nodded. "I hope that day comes soon."

"So do you agree to marry Kieran?"

"On the condition that you keep your hands off my family. My parents went through a lot to establish Wood Corporation."

When Valerie snapped back to the present, she put on a fake smile when she saw her mother's worried face.

She replied chirpily, "Nothing much! Actually, the Kingsleys seem great, and they're a powerful family. You and Dad shouldn't worry too much."

Over in another room, William took out a stack of papers and a USB. "Here is all the information you are looking for."

Kieran reached out to take them, but William retracted his hand. "You can have them after the ceremony."

That was all the leverage William needed. Kieran swallowed, got up to change into his suit, and left the room.

Just like that, the marriage ceremony started.

There were a lot of guests present, and the paparazzi had been made to wait outside of the building. After all, the Kingsleys had invited families with considerable influence and power.

The news of Kieran's marriage had shattered many families' dreams. Since he was marrying Valerie, the Woods were now part of high society.

In the bride's dressing room, Valerie was terrified to think about what her future had in store for her.

Finally, it was time for the ceremony. She picked up the skirts of her wedding dress and slowly walked out in her high heels.

Her father was waiting outside the room. She looked at Anthony's red-rimmed eyes and forced down the aching feeling in her heart.

The doors of the ceremony hall swung open and the spotlights turned to focus on her and Anthony.

Valerie clutched Anthony's elbow and started walking down the aisle, which was covered in petals.

From afar, she could see the man waiting for her at the end of the aisle.

This was the first time Valerie laid eyes on him. Kieran Kingsley, her husband.