The "EX" Factor

Chapter 1

“Do you, Miss Cassandra Adler, take master Viktor Krüger to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse……”

The priest’s voice blurred into a distant hum. Cassandra barely heard the vows, her thoughts drifting as she stared through the white veil at the man waiting before her.

Viktor Krüger was smiling. Too brightly, too eagerly. His eyes glittered with devotion, the kind she had prayed she would one day feel in return. But she didn’t. Not for him.

Her lips curled into a weary smile, but guilt weighed on her chest. She wished she didn't have to pretend to be in love with him. Her father had promised love might come later. She wasn't so sure.

Their union was nothing more than a means of neutralization, ultimate protection for the Adler family from the Mafia or any crime syndicate organization, and a way to bring both families closer. Their marriage wasn't born of love. It was a contract.

Cassandra let out a quiet sigh, her gaze leaving Viktor's smile to the anticipating crowd. She scanned every face, from her brother's to her father's, and to her in-laws as if registering each one in her head. Then, her breath caught.

A pair of ice cold ocean eyes staring back at her.

Her whole body stiffened, a sharp sensation running through her as she stared back into his unwavering gaze.

The man seated with his arms crossed, evenly narrowed eyes, a scar across his brow half hidden by his thick dark hair, and a presence that screamed power, was none other than Viktor's father, Dante Krüger.

He stood out from the crowd, and it wasn't because of the domineering aura that surrounded him, but because of the deep, disapproving frown sitting on his face.

Her pulse quickened, panic setting in. Why was he staring at her like that? Had be noticed her slouching? Or was it the hollowness of her smile?

“Cassandra.” Viktor’s whisper snapped her back. His hand tightened around hers.

Startled, she tore her gaze away from Dante’s.

“You’re spacing out again,” Viktor murmured, his tone gentle and subtle.

The priest was waiting. Everyone was waiting.

Cassandra swallowed hard, forcing the words out as she found her composure. “Y-yes. I do.”

Applause rang faintly in her ears, but she barely heard it. Against her will, her eyes darted back toward Dante’s seat. To her dismay, he was gone, leaving an empty seat behind. Her heart dropped, her gaze snapping towards the entrance of the wedding hall.

She caught a glimpse of his broad back before it disappeared. A strange ache pressed against her ribs.

Viktor lifted her veil, his smile warm. As if he’d read her mind, he told her “You didn’t do anything wrong. He’s always like this. Don’t let him get to you.” He cupped her cheek, brushing aside her unease before sealing the moment with a light kiss.

–––

That evening, the Krüger mansion glittered with chandeliers and laughter as the wedding reception unfolded.

Cassandra had changed into an off shoulder crêpe gown. And just as her in-laws wanted, she stood in the limelight throughout the event.

“Oh, stop acting like this isn't the best thing that has ever happened to you,” Kara Wells, Cassandra's best friend, sneered, lifting her glass to her lips.

Cassandra lowered her voice, her brows knitting, “It's Viktor I'm more worried about. I'm afraid I might never love him as much as he loves me”

Kara rolled her eyes “Please. He adores you. That's all that matters. Even if you don't love him yet, you will. Just fake it until then”

“Could you keep your voice down?” Cassandra hissed, shooting her a sharp look. “This isn’t the studio. Everyone can hear you.”

Kara grinned, unbothered. “Relax. Besides…” Her gaze shifted. “Your husband’s on his way over.”

Cassandra turned swiftly, standing “Viktor,” she called out in haste.

Viktor's lips curled up. He used the opportunity to take in his wife's appealing features, his eyes practically taking off her clothes before the consummation.

Cassandra's hair, soft layered, was left to cascade down her bare shoulders. Her thin almond amber eyes, firm with a hint of naivety, radiated like the gems around her neck and the bracelet on her wrist. Her peach themed lips, slightly full were eager to be devoured by him.

She had an allure that screamed seductive. If it wasn't for the cause of an event, he refused the likes of other men setting eyes on her neck let alone her shoulders.

“You look breathtaking, Cassandra,” Viktor said, extending his hand to her.

Cassandra placed her hand on his, teasing “You’ve said that like a hundred times today,” she chuckled lightly.

“And I'll say it a hundred more. My wife is the most beautiful woman here.” His voice beamed with pride as he began leading her towards the dance floor.

Cassandra noticed this and asked, “You want to dance?” She was a little disappointed. She still wanted to spend some time with Kara. Shockingly, they were heading past the dance floor.

Viktor shook his head, his smile deepening “Not me. My father wants to dance with you”

Cassandra’s steps faltered. Her heart leapt painfully into her throat