Dressed in ruffled lavender long down with heels, alongside Ryan who wore a slightly gray slim fit suit and brown Tomasso Italian leather shoes, we both made our entrance. With our arms entwined, we walked into the hall bustling with many people including businessmen and women all over the United States, and probably beyond. Nervousness clouded my innermost and I could only count numbers inwardly to ease the tension already building up in me. This was my first social gathering, especially with Ryan and almost in no time we were able to draw the attention of others. We began making our way to an empty table, as a familiar fellow walked up to us. None other than Eva. She hugged me, causing my arms to slip off from Ryan's. I noticed him groan, as Eva simply rolled her eyes. “I thought you would never come. Guess my brother really meant it.” Eva teased, as slow music began playing in the background. “What brings you here, sister?” Ryan's voice prompted the both of us to stare at h

ARIEL POV Every step we took toward the garden reminded me of many things. It was my final night here. It was time to start thinking of being a married young lady. Furthermore, it was a dream I never expected to come through this year. The night was quiet except for the croaking of frogs. But still, it was peaceful. The neon lights in the garden were something I always looked forward to when I visited the garden here. It was a beautiful sight. We finally sat on wooden chairs, as we faced each other, thereby putting a pause to my thoughts. “Ariel. How do you feel today?” Mum's question was enough to make me imagine how my day went by. I put on a smile. “I felt good. Even though it was an arranged marriage, It didn't feel forced. I am glad to marry someone like Ryan. I hope our marriage works out.” I wasn't sure what led to those answers I gave, but it was simply the truth. Getting married is a relief for me, at least for now. The smile on mum's face brightened. She adjusted h

RYAN POV There is something beautiful about keeping one's life simple. The life of having your basic needs: food, shelter and clothing, and being satisfied. A life you won't have to worry who was doing better than you. Or the thought of improving yourself to please the crowd, instead of yourself. That life, you won't have to worry about perfecting your life, in other to avoid scandals. The life of YOU VERSUS YOU. That was the life I craved for, but it seems I should brace myself for the opposite. It wasn't up to a step I took out of the company when I was crowded by a bunch of reporters. They kept bringing up questions about my secret marriage, making me wonder who was behind leaking it. They expected a wedding, a glamorous one, instead of the quiet one I had. Furthermore, they questioned me on why I hid my wife, and if truly the lady in the viral kiss video was the woman in my life. I was frustrated and furious, but I managed to keep my anger under the lid. I wasn't going to l

ARIEL POV It was three weeks. Three weeks of mixed emotions, anxiety, sadness, happiness, and disappointment. I wasn't sure what to conclude, seeing Ryan finally soft and saying thank you to me. It felt as if my heart somersaulted. I was happy within me. My communication with my dad had been regular, even though it was risky. My stepmom was not aware he gave me his contact information. All in one, I was glad our relationship was getting better. But still, every time we spoke, he kept reminding me of the secret he wanted to open to me about. It only brought this bitter feeling at the pit of my stomach. One thing I know for sure was that revealing that secret might make our relationship drawback. I do not want that. “I should have said that a long time ago. Pardon me.” He spoke gently. “Not a problem. Glad you said it now.” I admitted, licking my lips and determinably, pressing away the picture of my dad revealing his secret to me. “Thanks for understanding. I enjoyed this meal.

ARIEL POVI wasn't certain if my actions were enough reasons for me to react like that towards Ryan. I was angry, not against him for what transpired earlier between Cindy and us, but rather what happened at the restroom. “She just kept forcing herself on the young Billionaire.” The voice of one of the ladies I met at the restroom geared into my memory lane. Even when I felt I shouldn't have let them get to me, I still did. I sighed, realizing how unfair it was to react that way towards Ryan. I simply walked away, trying not to get back at them. Getting back at Cindy was enough for the night. I wasn't much of a fire for fire kind of person. I hoist my head up as it met with Ryan, who was taking giant strides towards me. My heart beat faster, as I hoped in my heart that he wasn't angry. The beeping sound of the car jolted me, as I opened the door to his car, not waiting for him to get in front of me. The least I could think of now was for the night to end in no time. I am alread