chapter 5

Marvis opened her eyes the following morning when the sun rays from the window hit her eyes. She realized she was wrapped up in Jace's strong arms and was also naked. What! She then remembered what happened the previous night and couldn't help but smile. He had taken her innocence, and it was worth it. She carefully disentangled herself from him and sneaked out of bed. He was in a deep sleep and didn't notice her leave.

As Marvis tip-toed down the stairs, the events of last night played over and over again in her mind. She never thought she would find herself in such a vulnerable position, giving herself to a man she barely knew. But there was something about Jace that made her feel safe, loved even. He had promised to take care of her, to provide for her financially, and she had agreed to marry him for that security. But her parents had refused to fulfill their end of the deal, leaving her feeling betrayed and hurt.

When Marvis returned after having breakfast downstairs, she found Jace awake and waiting for her. His gaze was intense, his eyes filled with determination. "Call your dad," he said firmly.

"Ehhe? Why?" she asked, puzzled.

"Just call him and bring the phone to me," he instructed sternly.

Nervously, Marvis dialed her father's number, the anticipation building in her chest. After a few rings, the call connected.

"Good morning Father," she greeted, trying to sound composed.

"What is it?" her father replied, his voice dripping with coldness. He didn't bother to respond to her greeting, nor did he attempt to hide the disdain in his tone.

Jace motioned for her to hand him the phone, and she did so reluctantly.

"Good morning, Mr. Lewis," Jace greeted, feigning politeness.

"Master Jace?" her father asked quietly, his voice filled with surprise and apprehension.

"I will give you just three minutes to send Marvis her balance. I will not tell you the consequences of acting otherwise. Your time starts now," Jace's voice was cold and authoritative. He was used to giving orders, his voice carrying the weight of power and dominance.

Marvis held her breath, unsure of what her father's response would be. She watched as Jace effortlessly exerted control over the situation, his unwavering determination cutting through the air.

"Ye... yes, Master Jace. I... will send... it right now," her father stammered in fright. Jace handed the phone back to Marvis, a triumphant smile playing on his lips.

She couldn't believe her eyes. She had spent half of the previous day begging and shouting at her father for her money, but Jace only needed to say the word and it was obeyed. At that moment, Marvis saw a side of him she hadn't fully comprehended before. He was not just kind and gentle, but also powerful and commanding.

She decided to wait and believe that she had indeed received the money. A minute later, her phone beeped. It was a credit alert from her bank. The five hundred thousand dollars had been paid in full. Tears welled up in her eyes as she realized that her dreams were finally within reach.

"I have received the money. Thank you so much, Master Jace," she said, her voice filled with gratitude and awe.

Jace looked at her, not seeing her, his eyes softening as he heard the genuine appreciation in her voice. He reached out to cup her face gently, his touch warm and soothing. "I told you I would take care of you, didn't I?" he whispered, a hint of vulnerability in his voice.

Marvis nodded, her heart swelling with a mixture of emotions. She couldn't deny the connection she felt with Jace, stronger now that he had shown her his unwavering determination and his ability to protect her. As she looked into his eyes, she knew that their journey together was only just beginning.

With the money now secured, Marvis and Jace began planning for their future. They discussed their dreams, hopes, and aspirations, realizing that they both wanted more than just financial security. They wanted a life filled with love, trust, and genuine happiness.

Together, they made a pact to support each other, to navigate the obstacles that lay ahead, and to build a life worth living. As they set off on this journey, hand in hand, Marvis couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope, knowing that she had found someone who would fight for her, no matter what.