Semua Bab My Deceptive Heart: Bab 11 - Bab 20

"What about you? I'm sure you have your own reasons why you agreed to this marriage?" With the kind of personality I saw in him, he wasn't the type of person who would easily agree to an arranged marriage just to please his parents."You were right. It just so happens that this marriage is my grandfather's condition just so I can have the full authority of all the Saldivar's businesses. If I won't marry you I won't have any inheritance, that's what my cunning grandfather bargained on me.""So can I expect your cooperation so we can work this arrangement?" I bargained. "Let me tell you this, woman. You do not call the shots, I do. You understand?""Of course, but not all the time." I confidently stated to annoy him."Let's see about that." He threatened with that dangerous glare at me then downed the glass of wine he was holding in one gulp. "I will occupy the Master's bedroom and you can choose any room that will suit you." He added. I don't know but I felt relieved after hearing th

While in my room, I took the opportunity to call my staff at the gallery and gave them instructions on what to do while I was away. I decided to call my most trusted friend, Sybil, to look after the business and handle the important matters at the gallery. Sybil used to be my roommate in France, and we have been friends for a long time. She was a wedding coordinator by profession but also knew a lot about arts. She was the only friend I could entrust with my gallery while I was away. At first, Sybil was shocked when she learned that I had already gotten married. She got mad at me for not inviting her to my wedding, but when I explained what was behind my arranged marriage and told her everything from the start, my friend began to understand how I had gotten into this compromising situation."I will come back as soon as I find a way out of this mess. I need your help running the gallery for now, Sybil." I also explained why I had to stay in the country and that she was the only person I

"Can you stand?" I asked."Do you think I would ask for help if I could?" he retorted sardonically.What can I expect? Sober or drunk, he's still a jerk as always, I thought irritably."Are you saying something?""Oh, just shut up!"I didn't wait for him to respond and immediately helped him to his feet by grabbing his left arm. As soon as he stood, I placed his hand on my shoulder for support as we started to walk. He moved slowly and unsteadily, so we had to be careful—especially when ascending the stairs. When we finally reached his room, he let go of me and carelessly pulled his shirt out, throwing it somewhere. I swallowed an imaginary lump, a wave of fear and nervousness creeping into my chest after seeing that."W-Wait, w-what are you doing?"I was shocked by his actions, causing my steps to falter. I instinctively stepped backward, crossing my arms as if to cover my chest. Expecting him to come closer, I was surprised when he just stared at me with a weird look, his forehead kn

"Hi! I brought some lunch today, and I hope you haven't eaten yet," the old woman greeted me with a happy smile.The old woman seemed so buoyant and excited, and I couldn't help but reciprocate her warm and genuine smile. She looked so elegant and beautiful beyond her age. Her features spoke of glamour and wealth, and she seemed to have soft features and a cheerful personality."You just arrived in time, Mom! We haven't eaten lunch yet!" The words I was about to say were cut short when my husband burst out from behind me and said that, wrapping his arms around my waist."Y-Yes, Mama. Y-You're just in time." I don't know why I suddenly stuttered when he just held my waist and touched my skin."Why don't we prepare the table now, sweetheart, and let's taste what Mom brought for us?" Zeke sweetly stated."Yeah, that's a good idea. Come on, let's prepare the table."I secretly glared at my husband when I felt him tighten his hold on my waist, urging me to walk forward. Together, we prepare

"Sorry to keep you waiting. I just handled an important matter. Are you ready to go?" Zeke, who had just pushed open the glass door, said, catching my attention as I was looking at the painting.I saw him slowly scan my appearance. I was sure he was stunned or mesmerized for a moment when he saw me. His eyes traveled from my toes up to my cleavage, and I was certain I saw raw desire flicker in his gaze. My cheeks flushed as soon as our eyes met. He blinked twice, as if the realization hit him, then cleared his throat to break the tension between us. I don’t understand why, but I found myself strangely pleased by his reaction, as if he appreciated my looks."I want to ask you something," I said to Zeke, thinking about the painting.He looked at me expectantly, his eyes searching for mine, trying to decipher my thoughts. "Did you buy this painting?" I asked curiously."My secretary did. Why?""I see." A part of me felt a little disappointed after hearing his answer.Maybe I expected him