Chapter 3

“This is where I live with grandma,” he said, pointing at the gigantic mansion in front of us.

The Fisher’s mansion was a sight to behold, a sprawling estate that whispered of luxury and elegance. The house itself was a masterpiece of architecture, with towering columns, intricate carvings, and expansive windows that offered breathtaking views. The gardens surrounding the mansion were equally stunning, a carefully curated landscape of vibrant flowers, manicured lawns, and winding pathways.

As you approached the mansion, you were greeted by a grand entrance, a sweeping driveway lined with perfectly trimmed hedges. The gardens were a symphony of colors and textures, with roses, lilies, and other exotic blooms creating a feast for the eyes. There was a serene koi pond, a hidden gazebo, and sculptures that added a touch of artistry to the surroundings.

The entire estate exuded an air of tranquility and sophistication, a place where one could escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in beauty and serenity.

“Grandma is waiting for us .. you remember your lines right?” He said, staring at me and waiting for my response.

“Yes, we met at a coffee shop, fell in love and had a civil wedding, and after you collect your trust fund, we'll tell her we broke up because, my job is at Hong Kong and we couldn't maintain a long distance relationship."

“Good!!!” He said, holding my hands firmly like he was going to war.

“You gotta hold my waist and smile softly so grandma will be convinced we’re a real couple,” I said, pulling his hands to my Waist.

The living room was a testament to The Fisher’s success and refined taste. Sunlight streamed through expansive windows, illuminating the space with a warm, inviting glow. The walls were painted a soft, neutral color, providing a perfect backdrop for the carefully curated furnishings. A plush, oversized sofa, upholstered in a luxurious velvet fabric, dominated one side of the room, inviting relaxation and conversation.

Scattered around the room were tasteful pieces of art, each carefully chosen to add character and depth to the space. But the true focal point of the room was the large portrait of Michael's grandmother. It hung proudly above a grand fireplace, its presence commanding attention and radiating warmth. The portrait itself was a masterpiece, capturing the essence of his grandmother's kind smile and gentle eyes.

“Grandma!!!” Michael called out, holding my hands firmly.

I was utterly intrigued when she walked in.

Michael's grandmother was a vision of grace and beauty, her presence filling any room with an aura of warmth. She stood tall, her posture erect, her frame slender yet strong, carrying herself with an effortless elegance that belied her age. Her skin was smooth and radiant, a testament to a life well-lived, and her eyes sparkled with a youthful zest.

Her scent was an intoxicating blend of floral and spice, a delicate perfume that lingered in the air long after she had left a room. It was a scent that evoked memories of freshly baked bread, blooming roses, and the comforting embrace of a loved one.

“Who’s the guest?” She asked. Her voice like a gentle melody, so sweet and soothing. I could listen to her talk all day.

“My name is Leah Craig a.k.a lily,” I responded, stretching my hands for a handshake, I was too excited that I didn’t just stop at that, “my mom was a big fan of yours when she was still alive…can I… can I get a hug? And a kiss?” I didn’t even wait for her permission, I went straight for a hug. “You smell so good! And you look so young!!! Stunning!!”

“Babe!!! Relax, “ Michael muttered, holding my shoulders, and somehow reminding me of what I came for without even talking.

“I’m so sorry grandmother.. I couldn’t contain my happiness of meeting you in person… once again, my name is Leah Craig a.k.a lily.” I said, finally gaining my composure.

“Meet my wife, grandma, “ he said, planting kisses on my cheeks.”

“What?! Your wife?! Your wife?!” She yelled almost in tears. “Where ? How? When did it happen?! She seemed so confused, I’d be confused too, to be honest.

“Uhm… we met at a coffee shop, she was so beautiful I couldn’t I ignore, I spoke to her.. and the rest they say is history!” Michael responded, smiling and hugging me, I could feel how fake those hugs were.

“We had a civil wedding!!!” I added, showing her my ring excitedly.

“Well congratulations to you both, “ she muttered. “But i need one request from you”

“Yes grandma… anything, we’ll do it!”

“I don’t want a civil wedding.. marriage is sacred… so I want a priest to officiate the wedding.. and I need to be  part of my grandson’s wedding. Right?” She asked rhetorically. “I want you to get married again! And I need to be there… I’m so excited!!!” She continued, happily leaving the room and ignoring our facial expressions.

This was like a huge blow to my face, what I thought was going to be easy, became complicated.

“As in like a real wedding?!” I exclaimed immediately she left the sitting room, waiting to hear what plan Michael would come up with. “What’s about my family, Michael? Getting married for real wasn’t part of our plan, “ I was almost in tears.

“Let’s just get an annulment after I get my money.” He responded, looking at me with disgust, Like I didn’t didn’t have the right to have a say.

“Michael, fine, I admit. You’re handsome, Rich, you have it all, I do have a crush on you, but, no, I’m not ready yet… I’m too young to get married..I… I don’t want to do it. No!” I said, trying to let him understand every piece of my mind.

“Hey Leah! I don’t want to marry you either, I wouldn’t even have you for one night stand. I don’t even know where you came from.”

He was so aggressive, and mean!!

“That’s too much!” I responded, with tears building up in my eyes, almost ready to fall.

“So, how much do you want for you to agree? I’ve encountered people like you before. All you want Is money, right? That’s all you wanted from me, right? So, how much? Name your price.” He continued, staring at me intensely and completely ignoring how his words were making me feel.

I was dumbfounded, I only managed to say, “Wait.”

“Don’t tell me to wait. You’re just calculating.., you’re just counting the number of heads you plan to give Money to. So, how much? How much are you?” He added, with that familiar disgusting expression of his.

“You think too highly of yourself.. sorry Michael, but I can’t be bought.” I finally responded, leaving his house and closing the door behind me. I could hear him screaming my name but I wasn’t going back, not after how he degraded me and everything I stood for.

But, little did I know that a twist was about to happen.

“