Ch. 471..480

Chapter 471 She Is In Danger Alex's POV.

I felt a surge of unease as I watched Salvator leer at my wife from across the room. His intentions were crystal clear, and I knew he wouldn't let this opportunity pass. Determined to protect Sarah, I casually draped an arm around her and suggested that it was time to head home. Little did we know that our departure would coincide with chaos erupting all around us.

As we were about to leave, the unmistakable sound of gunfire shattered the air. Instinctively, I reached for my phone and quickly texted Logan and

Ryder, urging them to join us immediately. However, there was no time to

waste; I had to take charge until they arrived. My bodyguard and henchmen sprang into action, and we fought back against Salvator's well-armed men.

Bullets whizzed past, and the air reeked of gunpowder as we engaged in a fierce battle. I could hear my heart pounding in my ears, but I couldn't let fear paralyze me. I had to protect Sarah and everyone else caught in this dangerous situation.

"Stay close to me, Sarah! We'll make it out of this mess," I yelled, trying to reassure her amidst the chaos. Her eyes were wide with fear, but she nodded and clung tightly to me as we navigated through the mayhem.

My bodyguard, Tony, was firing with deadly accuracy, covering our flank as we pushed forward. My henchmen, Joey and Vinnie, fought with grit and determination, taking down Salvator's men one by one. Finally, just when we needed them most, Logan and Ryder arrived, guns blazing. The tide began to turn in our favor as they joined the fray. The

additional firepower and expertise they brought to the table gave us the edge we needed.

We continued to push forward, gaining ground as we fought back the onslaught of Salvator's people. It was a fierce battle of wills, and neither side was willing to back down.

As the dust settled and the last of Salvator's men lay defeated, we all took a moment to catch our breath. The room was a mess of overturned furniture and bullet-riddled walls. But we had prevailed.

Sarah looked at me, her eyes still wide, and apologized for coming here alone. I held her close, trying to calm both her and myself.

"Don't worry, Sarah. We're safe now. Let's get out of here," I said, my voice still tinged with adrenaline.

Logan and Ryder exchanged nods with me, and together, we made our

way out of the now-silent room, leaving behind the remnants of the violent encounter.

This night was a stark reminder of the dangers that came with the life I had chosen. But I had no intention of backing down, especially when it came to protecting the ones I loved. Salvator had made a grave mistake by targeting my family, and tonight, we had sent a clear message that We were not to be trifled with. The mafia may be ruthless, but I was equally so, and I'd do whatever it took to keep my loved ones safe.

As we stepped out of the chaotic scene, the cool night air provided some respite from the tension-filled room we had just escaped. The adrenaline still coursed through my veins, keeping me alert and focused on the task at hand-getting Sarah home safely.

some respite from ne

We hurried towards the waiting car, the dim streetlights casting long shadows around us. Logan and Ryder flanked us, their eyes scanning the

surroundings for any signs of trouble. We knew that Salvator's reach extended far, and we couldn't let our guard down even for a moment.

As we approached the car, a dark figure emerged from the shadows, blocking our path. It was Salvator himself, a smug grin playing on his face. He was battered and bloodied, but his arrogance remained intact. "Well, well, well, looks like you managed to scrape by this time," Salvator sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. "But mark my words, this isn't over. You and your precious wife won't be safe for long."

I felt the anger rise within me, fueled by the threats he dared to utter. But I knew better than to let my emotions get the best of me. I had to stay composed, calculating, and maintain the upper hand.

"Salvator, you've made a grave mistake," I responded, my voice laced with a steely resolve. "You should have thought twice before crossing me. This isn't a game you can win."

I took my gun and shot him in the centre of the forehead. He was dead then and there.

"Lets go, our people will take care of his body," Logan suggested and I agreed.

We quickly piled into the car, the engine roaring to life as Logan took the wheet his eyes scanning the rearview mirror for any signs of

pursuit, The sirens grew louder

constant reminder of the imminent danger we still faced.

Sarah clutched my hand tightly, her knuckles turning white. I gave her a reassuring squeeze, trying to convey that we were in this together, and I would do whatever it took to keep her safe.

As the car sped through the darkened streets, I couldn't help but reflect on the events of the night. Salvator's threat hung over us like a dark cloud, a reminder that our lives were forever entangled in this treacherous world. But I was determined. Determined to protect my loved ones.

 

Chapter 472 A Mutual Decision Sarah's POV.

The next morning, I awoke with a splitting headache, and I instinctively clutched my head in both hands, groaning in discomfort. As I lay there, the door creaked open, and Alex appeared with a thoughtful expression, carrying a tray in his hands. His face brightened at the sight of me, and he greeted me with a warm smile, "Good morning, babe." He approached the bed gracefully and carefully set the tray down beside me.

I could only manage a weak groan in response to his cheerful demeanor, clearly still feeling the effects of the headache.

"Headache?" Alex inquired with genuine concern as he took a seat beside me.

"Deadly," I replied, wincing slightly as I inhaled and exhaled sharply.

Without hesitation, he handed me two Advil tablets and a glass of water, advising, "Take this. And have your favorite coffee. You will feel better."

I followed his instructions without question, swallowing the tablets and then reaching for the comforting aroma of the coffee on the tray.

Alex watched me closely for a moment, seemingly contemplating something before he finally spoke again, his tone serious, "Did you remember anything from last night?"

I shook my head, trying to recall the events of the previous night, but my memories were hazy and fragmented. "Ah... a little bit. I have a vague memory of last night. Maybe I drank too much."

"We need to talk, Sarah," he said, and I nodded in agreement, curious and slightly apprehensive about the conversation to come.

Alex slid off the bed and began pacing around the room, his body language revealing a deep sense of stress. I couldn't help but feel concerned about what was on his mind.

"Alex, please sit down," I urged gently, patting the bed beside me. He obliged, quickly covering the distance between us in three long strides and settling down by my side. He placed a comforting hand on my shoulder, giving it a light squeeze. "Sarah, listen to me first," he said, his voice filled with earnestness. "Don't panic, and don't feel any pressure. I want you to take your time to think before you react, okay?"

His words only served to heighten my confusion, leaving me wondering what exactly he wanted to discuss.

"You are scaring me, Alex," I raised both of her eyebrows. Alex chuckled. "Just hear me out, " He said.

I nodded. Alex took a deep breath.

"I understand that you might feel scared after what happened last night. But I want you to trust me; I will always protect you," Alex began, his voice filled with sincerity and reassurance. "Yeah, I trust you, Alex," I replied, trying to match his smile with a faint one of my own.

Then, without warning, he dropped a surprising announcement, "I want to start our family."

My heart skipped a beat, and I was taken aback by the suddenness of his desire.

"What?" I stammered, struggling to process the revelation.

"Baby, my parents always wanted us to start a family from the very beginning. And now, I yearn for it too," he admitted, baring his vulnerability.

Feeling conflicted, I gently covered

his hand on my shoulder with my own, seeking comfort and

connection. "But, Alex, we just gott

married and we're still getting to know each other. I don't think it's the

right time to have a baby. Maybe we should wait a little longer, suggested, hoping he would

understand my perspective.

Alex nodded understandingly, acknowledging my point of view. "Sarah, I'm not entirely ready for this either, but there are some duties I am bound to fulfill," he explained.

He shifted his hand from my

shoulder to my arm, reaching for my

hand and enclosing it between his.. With a tender grasp, he continued, "And besides, we're married. Eventually, we'll have children, so why not now? I believe becoming parents will bring us closer and help us understand each other better."

His gaze bore into my eyes, as if searching my soul for the answers he sought. "I've never felt this way with anyone else. I want to spend my entire life with you in my arms. I can't explain what this feeling is, but it's only you who makes me feel like this," he confessed, his emotions laid bare.

His words left me gasping for

breath, utterly speechless. My mind raced to find the right words, but the rush of emations overwhelmed me making i difficult to articulate my thoughts. Everything was happening so quickly that my mind struggled to catch up with the whirlwind of emotions inside me. I tried to find the perfect response, but all that came out was a faint whisper of uncertainty.

"Alex, I don't know what to say," I began, my voice filled with uncertainty. I paused, searching his face for any reaction, but it remained stoic, devoid of any emotions, and he listened intently to my words.

"We just got married, and it's only been a month. I think we should give ourselves more time. Maybe you're acting impulsively after our fight and making hasty decisions. But please, think it through once more. Having a baby is a significant decision. We can't decide at the snap of a finger," I

implored, holding his hand firmly as I gazed softly into his eyes. "So you need time?" he finally spoke.

"I need some time. We need to give ourselves time. Let's wait and see how our relationship grows. Please, Alex," I pleaded, not wanting to hurt him but needing to express my feelings honestly.

"Okay, sweetheart. Take your time. I'm not in a hurry. I can wait for you to be ready to start a family with me until the end of this world," he reassured me, a warm smile spreading across his face. Relieved that he understood, I returned his smile with gratitude and affection.

"Baby, you fought with me and left home. You didn't tell me where you were going. Never do that again, okay?!" he said, his tone serious as he expressed his concern.

I nodded, feeling a sense of remorse and promising silently to be more considerate in the future.

"Baby girl, you were a very bad girl last night. And you know that bad girls deserve punishment," he stated, his eyes narrowing playfully.

I gasped, a mixture of surprise and intrigue. "Are you... Are you going to punish me?" I asked, finding it hard to believe that Alex could ever intentionally hurt me.

Alex leaned in closer to my shoulder, his lips grazing my ear as he

whispered teasingly, "Oh, baby girl, you're going to love your punishment. I promise."

His words sent a shiver down my spine, and I closed my eyes, waiting in anticipation for what he had in store for me.

 

Chapter 473 Punishment For A Bad Girl

Alex's POV.

"Come here," I instructed, curling my index finger.

She scooted down the bed and stood near me. I sat on the bed and widened the gap between my legs.

"Over my knees," I instructed again in my deep, dominating voice, causing her jaw to drop to the ground. I smirked, pleased to see her reaction.

She seemed nervous, slowly stalking near me, swaying her hips sensually, and stopping near my legs.

I gripped her arm and pulled her down over my lap. Her face was down, and her ass was up in the air. I dragged up her dress to reveal her white lace panties.

"Beautiful!" I groaned.

She gasped and shivered as the cold air touched her skin when I dragged her panties down to her ankles.

I placed my hand on her bottom, and my rough skin began to slowly caress her ass cheeks, making her moan as she enjoyed my touch. Suddenly, I gave her a hard spank that landed on her soft skin, making her cry out. "Ah..."

I immediately soothed the pain by caressing and massaging her with my large palm.

"Count in numbers, or I won't stop until you count to ten," I said, my voice becoming dangerously deep and low.

She nodded, biting her lips, unable to speak. Again, a spank landed on her right ass cheek with a loud sound. She cried out the number,

"Two."

I caressed her burning skin again. Before she could recover, I spanked her left ass cheek so hard that she squirmed and screamed my name in pleasure. She had just orgasmed so intensely over my knees.

I waited longer this time for her to recover as the waves of orgasm kept hitting her deep down her core. She was panting and breathing with difficulty. I kept massaging her back, caressing and soothing her. She counted in numbers again when she was able to speak, "Three."

"Good girl," he said, massaging and kneading her heated ass cheeks before delivering a firm spank. She moaned and yelped, clearly enjoying the experience.

After Alex had finished playfully punishing her with a gentle spanking on each cheek, she was left panting heavily, almost breathless. He could feel her arousal, and it had soaked through, leaving a damp spot on his pants. With his hands still on her cheeks, he continued to massage them, trying to soothe the sensation from the playful punishment. Knowing she enjoyed it, he parted her thighs and explored further, touching her wetness.

As his finger brushed over the edge of her vagina, parting her folds and gathering her wetness, she gasped and squirmed over his knees. "You're

so beautiful and wet. I can't wait to taste you," he groaned, pushing his finger gently inside her tight entrance.

Her pleasurable cry of his name made him feel proud that he could bring her such pleasure. "Yes, baby girl, moan my name as you climax on my finger and in my mouth," he groaned in response to her pleasure.

Feeling her wetness and her tightness around his finger, he couldn't resist the temptation to taste her. He pulled out his finger, and as she shivered and stood on her feet, he helped her lie on the bed on her elbows. On the other side, he lay down on his back. "Come here," he gestured to her, inviting her near. She scooted closer on the bed.

"I want you to sit on my lap," he said, and she looked at him with widened eyes, feeling a bit nervous.

"You... You want me to do what?" she stammered.

"You heard me, sweetheart," he said, tugging her leg playfully and making her straddle him. Holding her waist, he lifted her slightly, allowing her to sit on his lap.

"Oh, God," she squealed.

"Remove your dress," he softly ordered.

She complied, quickly removing her dress and revealing her white lacy bra covering her ample bosom. He groaned at the sight.

Running the tip of his tongue over her inner thighs, he licked her soft skin. She closed her eyes, her head rolling back in pleasure. "Ah... Oh..." she moaned.

"Oh, baby, I haven't even started yet. Who made you so wet and aroused?" Although he knew the answer, he playfully asked her. "You," she gasped in response.

I smiled upon hearing her answer. She was all mine and only mine.

With my tongue, I parted her folds and licked her clit, rewarded by a sweet moan.

Taking her sensitive clit between my teeth, I lightly flicked it.

"Oh, God! You're killing me, Alex," she cried. I smirked, reveling in hearing my name from her sweet, intoxicating mouth.

I captured her clit in my lips and sucked hard, causing her to writhe on my face. It was an exhilarating sight.

Licking her soft edges, I gently probed my tongue inside her tight hole. She became a moaning mess, and I savored the experience of being between her legs. She was at my mercy, and I intended to make her climax on my tongue, in my mouth, and all over my face. Sucking hard on her core while my tongue was inside her, I felt her clenching around me. I knew she was close. Arching her back and supporting herself with her hands, her legs shivered, and her body shook. She was very close.

I trailed my hands up her thighs, ran

over her flat stomach, and reached her breasts pinched her nipple

firmly, and she groaned in

anticipation, her body trembling as she climaxed all over my mouth. I savored her sweetness like a thirsty man in the desert. Her taste was addictive and unlike anything, I had experienced before.

Panting and breathing heavily, she continued to shudder. I kept sucking on her sweet nectar until the last drop. Gently lifting her, I made her sit on my chest, and she remained breathless.

Gripping her nape, I pulled her down and pressed my lips against hers, letting her taste herself on my lips. She kissed me with urgency and

passion. I plunged my tongue into her mouth, and she moaned, savoring her essence on my tongue.

I pulled her down beside me, then

rose on the bed and swiftly removed

my pants and shirt. Hovering over

her, I parted her thighs with my

knees and entered her tight opening. I began thrusting hard and deep. Soon, I reached my climax and released inside her. Collapsing on her, I panted and breathed heavily, taking my time to regain my strength.

I pulled out and lay beside her, pulling her into my arms. "Take some rest, baby. You need to regain your strength for our next session said, looking at her face. Her eyes were already closed. I smiled, seeing her small face, looking exhausted. I kissed her forehead and tucked her head under my chin. Closing my eyes, I felt content, satisfied, and fulfilled.

 

Chapter 474 Mixed Feeling Logan's After returning from the business trip, Mia's demeanor had changed; she appeared distant, her usual warmth and charm replaced with a guarded facade. Afte the meeting ended Mia was the first one to be in hurry to run out of the room or away from me. "Mia, wait. I need to talk to you," I implored, my desperate eyes searching for answers in her troubled blue ones. She hesitated but finally remained in the room after everyone else had left.

"What's wrong, baby girl? Talk to me. Why are you avoiding me?" I questioned, my voice trying to hold on to its usual commanding tone, but a hint of vulnerability seeped through.

"Nothing is wrong, Mr. Mancini. I just... I just came back to my senses," Mia replied animatedly, trying to keep up a brave front.

I shook my head, confusion evident on my face. "What do you mean?"

"I mean... listen... I need this job, but I can't be your play toy. I have feelings, and I don't want to get hurt in the end. Please, Mr. Mancini, I want whatever is between us to end. I don't want to proceed with this kind of relationship any further," Mia finally voiced her inner turmoil.

"Hell! You've got it all wrong, baby girl. You've misunderstood everything." I tried to explain, my voice tinged with exasperation and desperation.

"Yes, Mr. Mancini. I got it all wrong. I was living in a fake world, but now I've awakened to reality. I don't want this. I want to live a peaceful and respectful life. Please forget about everything that has ever happened. And

if you want, I can... I can resign," Mia's voice trembled, revealing the emotions she was trying to suppress.

Seeing her struggling, I realized it was not the right time to talk to her further. Perhaps she needed time to process her feelings. "You don't need to resign, Mia. It's okay if you don't want this relationship. We will keep it purely professional if that makes you happy. Alright?" With tears shimmering in her eyes, she silently left the room, leaving me to grapple with the unexpected rejection.

As I stood there, confusion swirling in my mind, I couldn't help but wonder, "What's wrong with her? Why is she behaving like this? Did anyone say anything about me?"

The truth was, I had started to feel a deep attraction for Mia, something beyond just business or physical desire. I had planned to take our relationship to the next level and ask her to be my girlfriend, but now it seemed like she was not interested in me, which was a new and unsettling experience for me.

My phone broke my thoughts, ringing insistently. I knew it was my father, and he wouldn't call without a valid reason. "Dad! What happened?" I answered, hoping to find a distraction from the emotional turmoil inside me.

"That was rude, Logan Mancini. Have you forgotten your manners?" My father's voice scolded me over the phone, his tone filled with disapproval.

"Dad, please, I'm a little bit packed. If you can, please hurry," I replied in a bored voice, clearly not in the mood for a lecture.

"Come home tonight. Have dinner with us. It's been a long time since you've spent time with your family," he urged, attempting to bridge the gap between us.

"What's the occasion, Dad?" I asked, sensing that there must be a significant reason behind this sudden invitation.

"Nothing special, but Logan, we have something very important to discuss with you. You better come on time. Your grandparents will also be there," he informed me, leaving a hint of mystery in his words.

"So, it's going to be a family

get-together,mused, frowning

slightly. I knew from experience that

when my whole family came

together, it usually meant they were conspiring against me in some way. As the sole heir of the Mancini group, I had taken over and managed all our businesses and properties.

"Yes, Logan, after a long time, we'll all be having a meal together. We'll be waiting for you," my father confirmed, emphasizing the significance of the gathering. "Okay, dad, I'll be there," I said, resigning myself to the inevitable confrontation.

As the evening fell, I found myself sitting at the dining table with my family, enjoying dinner while waiting for them to reveal the news that prompted this gathering.

"So, what's the matter? Spill the news. I can't wait anymore," I finally broke the tense silence, eager to get it over with.

"Listen, Logan, you're turning 27, and according to your great-grandfather's will, you should be married before you turn 27," my grandfather warned, his tone serious and stern.

"Come on, Grandpa, you know that I'm not interested in marriage. I want to enjoy my freedom, and I'm content living alone. I don't want any kind of trouble in my life, and marriage is the beginning of so many problems," I shrugged, trying to defend my position. "You have to understand, Logan. Your affair with your secretary is all over the media. Taking her outdoors has become big gossip. Your Casanova

image is not good for our business and family. We can't afford to lose our clients because of your playboy image. They don't trust someone who is not serious in his life," Grandpa scowled, expressing concerns of the family's reputation.

"Come on, Grandpa, you're being

overly dramatic. How can they relate my personal life and business

together? Rersonal and professional lives are two different things, and it doesn't make any sense. They should understand that my commitment has never faltered in any professional deal," I argued, trying to make them see my point of view.

"Everything does not work according to you, Logan, and we have already selected a girl for you. She comes from a very rich and reputed family. Your marriage with her will not only strengthen our family ties but also

be beneficial for our business," my father disclosed, his voice carrying a sense of finality.

"What the hell, Dad? How can you decide something so significant without even asking me?" I retorted, my annoyance evident in my tone. "Language, Logan! You can't speak in front of your elders like that," my grandfather interjected sternly, disapproving of my outburst.

"I'm sorry, Grandpa, but I can't marry someone I don't even know," I replied, managing to regain my composure and keep my voice level.

"Listen, Logan, you have to marry a girl either chosen by us, or you can choose a girl yourself. But you must get married before you turn 27; otherwise, you will lose all rights to the family's property and businesses," my grandfather revealed, his words carrying a weight of tradition and obligation.

Damn it! I was trapped with no escape. I felt cornered, with my family's legacy and my future hanging in the balance.

"Okay, Grandpa, I will marry the girl of your choice," I sighed, accepting my fate reluctantly.

 

Chapter 475 A Bad News Sarah's POV.

In a cozy corner of the restaurant, I sat opposite my dear friend Julia, the soft glow of Amber light illuminating our faces. It had been nearly a month since we last saw each other, and we were catching up over coffee, sharing the details of our lives. Julia, with her mischievous charm, leaned forward and asked with a playful wink, "How's your married life going on, babe?"

even more.

A blush crept onto my cheeks as I thought about my marriage. It was like living in a fairytale - everything was simply perfect. It was clear that Alex was starting to like me just as I liked him. And what I discovered this very morning would undoubtedly strengthen our bond

"Oh, Julia, you won't believe it," I gushed. "Life with Alex is like a dream come true. He was my dream man, and now he's my husband. I feel like I'm on cloud nine."

Julia chuckled and commented with amusement, "Sarah, you're absolutely glowing. You're so lucky to have Alex. You've turned all the other girls green with envy, and they're probably blaming their own lack of luck for any negative feelings they might have towards you. He was undoubtedly the most desirable bachelor around."

A sheepish smile crossed my lips as I admitted, "I know, Julia, and I really wanted to share this news with you."

"What is it? Tell me! I can't stand the suspense," Julia exclaimed, leaning in even closer.

Taking a deep breath, I revealed, "I'm pregnant, Julia."

Julia's eyes widened, and she gasped, "Whoa! That's fantastic, babe! I'm going to be a godmother; I'm declaring it right now. No arguments!"

We both laughed heartily at her enthusiastic proclamation, and I felt grateful to have such a supportive friend. But my nerves got the best of me as Julia inquired further, "Did you tell your husband yet?"

Gently biting my lip, I hesitated,

"Umm... I'm not sure, Julia. I don't

know how to break this news to him. We never planned for this to happen so soon after our marriage. I already told him that I don't want to have a kid right now. We're still in the early stages of our marriage, and we're both trying to figure out our relationship. I'm just afraid that he might react the way I did when I first learned about my pregnancy - scared and unsure."

"Don't worry, babe. Just tell him. He will understand. It's his child too. And it's not only your mistake that you got pregnant," Julia reassured me, her eyes filled with empathy as she reached out to hold my hand, offering a comforting squeeze.

Her words resonated with me, and I let out a soft sigh, realizing that she was right. I needed to share this with Alex, as it was a decision that

concerned both of us. My fingers unconsciously caressed my stomach, and as I did so, a wave of tenderness washed over me. I was already beginning to feel a connection with my unborn baby, and deep down, I knew I wanted to embrace motherhood. "Excuse me?!"

In the midst of my thoughts, a voice

interrupted our conversation. I turned my head to see a brunette woman standing before us, her big blue eyes adorned with artificial lashes. Her presence struck me as strange, and I couldn't fathom what she wanted.

"You are Alex's wife, right?" she asked, looking at me with a mix of curiosity and suspicion.

"Yes," I replied, a hint of uncertainty in my voice as I tried to understand her intentions.

The woman smirked, giving me a once-over, and I felt a pang of insecurity. "You are so pretty. I don't find any reason why Alex would ever think of cheating on you," she said with a touch of pity in her tone. Confusion clouded my expression, and I asked, "What do you mean?"

She shook her head and let out a lazy laugh, as though enjoying some secret amusement.

"I know you won't believe me without proof. Let me show you something," she said, taking out her phone.

Chapter 476 A Bad News

My heart began to race with unease as she played a video for me to see.

The sight on the screen shattered my world. It was Alex, intimately kissing another woman, his possessive grip pulling her closer as if he couldn't get enough of her. My head spun, and the ground beneath my feet felt unstable. Nausea churned in my stomach, and I had to fight the urge to empty my insides right then and there. I couldn't bear to watch any more of that heart-wrenching video, so I averted my gaze, tears welling up in my eyes as I tried to comprehend what I had just witnessed. Anger and hurt boiled inside me as I glared at the woman who had shown me that devastating video.

"What do you want from me? Why are you showing me this?" I demanded, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tremor in my hands.

Her expression turned deceptively innocent, but I could see the mockery in her eyes.

"I just want to alert you about your husband. You look like a very nice lady, and I am worried about you," she said with a hint of insincerity.

I clenched my fists, determined not to let her see how deeply her actions had affected me.

"You don't have to worry about me. I can take care of myself, and thank you for showing this video," I replied, forcing a calm facade even as my heart

was shattering into a million pieces.

Unable to bear the weight of the revelation, I abruptly stood up, leaving the restaurant without even looking back. Julia followed close behind, her voice filled with concern as she called out my name, urging me to stop.

"Sarah! What happened? Why did you run out? Who was that girl? What did you see in her phone? Tell me, what's the matter?" she bombarded me with questions, but I couldn't find the words to answer just yet.

My mind was a whirlwind of emotions. Just moments ago, I had been elated at the thought of becoming a mother, building a future with Alex, my supposed loving husband. But now, it felt like everything had crumbled around me. I knew about Alex's questionable past before we got married, but I had believed that he had changed, that his feelings for me were genuine. Yet, that video shattered all my illusions.

Feeling like an utter fool for falling so easily for his charming facade, I cursed myself for being blind to the signs. His sweet words and gestures, all of it seemed like an act now, designed to manipulate me into falling for him. I felt like a pawn in his game, a means for him to satisfy his desires, leaving me broken and betrayed.

Amidst my turmoil, Julia held my hand, her touch grounding me in the moment. She turned me to face her, her caring eyes filled with empathy, waiting for me to open up about the pain that was tearing me apart inside.

Tears streamed down my cheeks as I recounted the painful revelation to Julia.

"That girl in the restaurant, she showed me a video in which Alex cheated

on me. I can't believe this. I just found out I am pregnant, and I was looking forward to seeing my happy family growing, and now all my dreams shattered into pieces, just like that. What will I do?" I asked, my voice trembling with a mix of disbelief and heartache. Feeling utterly lost and clueless about my future, I couldn't bear the weight of the betrayal that had befallen me.

Overwhelmed by emotions, I slumped down on the floor, my knees giving in to the immense pain in my heart. I no longer cared that people were

watching me in my pathetic condition. How could he do this to me? How could he do this to our baby? The love I once held for him now seemed like a distant memory, overshadowed by the searing hatred that consumed me. I hated him more than I ever thought I could love him, and the realization cut through me like a knife.

Wiping my cheeks and drying my

eyes, I felt Julia's warm hand

enveloping mine, offering a steadying presence. Drawing strength from her support, I forced myself to stand up, albeit feeling weak and broken inside. With an air of determination, I began to walk towards my car, my steps heavy with the weight of the decisions I knew I had to make.

"Where are you going, Sarah?" Julia asked, concern etched on her face.

"I am going to finish what he has started," I replied curtly, my voice void of any emotion. "With my trust shattered, every emotion in me also died because of his cheating. I can't forgive him, not now, not ever. He hurt me beyond measure, and he has to face the consequences. I refuse to let him hurt me any further.

I will put an end to everything with him," I declared with a newfound resolve.

Sliding into my car, I started the ignition, the engine humming to life as I drove towards Alex's office. The roads seemed endless, mirroring the turbulent thoughts swirling within me. I needed closure, even if it meant confronting the person who had broken my heart. Upon reaching his workplace, I parked the car, my hands trembling with a mix of anger and sadness. Stepping out, I took a deep breath to steady myself, ready to face the man who had shattered my dreams and betrayed my love. The path ahead was uncertain, but I knew one thing for certain - I wouldn't let him destroy me any further.

Chapter 477 It's Time To Make Decision Sarah's POV.

As I stood in front of the towering building housing Alex's office, my heart was heavy with sadness and determination. The guard, who knew me as Mrs. Hamilton, offered a polite salute, but my mind was too preoccupied to return his friendly gesture. The gravity of the

situation had consumed me entirely, leaving no room for pleasantries.

Pressing the button for the 60th floor where Alex's office resided, I walked with a sense of urgency, my steps guided by a singular purpose - to confront him and seek answers to the questions that haunted me.

As I approached his office, his secretary tried to intervene, her professional duty compelling her to uphold the ongoing meeting's privacy. However, her attempts to halt me were futile; nothing would deter me from facing Alex. "Ma'am, you cannot go inside. A meeting is going on, and I have orders that no one can enter the boardroom," she warned, trying to assert her authority.

I paid her no mind, my determination unwavering. Nothing could stop me now; I needed to see Alex immediately.

Despite my protests, she persisted in her efforts to block me. The audacity of her actions angered me. How dare she presume to understand my place in Alex's life? She was privy to his affairs, well aware of the other women who would visit him here. That knowledge fueled my disdain for her, and I shot her a scornful look as I pushed open the heavy door to the boardroom.

The abrupt entrance drew the attention of everyone present, and their faces displayed a mixture of anger, shock, surprise, and confusion. I paid no attention to their reactions, my gaze fixated solely on Alex, who stood in the center of the room, looking at me with a stunned expression etched across his face.

"I need to talk to you," I declared, my voice firm despite the emotions swirling inside me.

Alex nodded in acknowledgment, sensing the seriousness of the situation. With a subtle gesture, he indicated to the others in the room that they should leave. They understood the unspoken message and slowly departed, leaving us alone in the vast boardroom.

Alex stood there, visibly taken aback, as he watched me approach him with a mix of concern and confusion etched on his face. "What happened, baby? Are you alright?" he asked, trying to reach out and touch my head gently with the back of his palm. However, my body instinctively flinched away, and I pulled back, not wanting his touch at that moment.

His bewildered expression deepened, and he asked again, "What's wrong, Sarah?"

I couldn't believe he was acting oblivious to it all. My frustration bubbled over, and I snorted before responding in a tone laced with bitter mockery,

"Do you really not know?" I let out a mirthless laugh, feeling a mix of anger and disappointment. "Stop pretending in front of me, Alex. I know everything about you."

His eyes squinted in confusion, and he tried to defend himself, "What are you talking about, Sarah? I have no idea what you mean."

He shook his head, appearing to be the picture of innocence, and that only fueled my anger further. How could he act like nothing had happened? It

was infuriating. My emotions reached an extreme, and without thinking, I moved forward and delivered a punch to his chest, a physical manifestation of my hurt and betrayal. "You cheated on me!" I shouted, the words escaping my lips in a mix of pain and anger. "How dare you insult our marriage like this?"

In response, Alex's expression turned from confusion to frustration, denying my accusation vehemently. "What the hell are you talking about, Sarah?

Who told you all this nonsense? There is nothing like that," he retorted firmly.

My anger surged as I remembered the evidence that led me to confront him. "Yeah? And what about that video?" I scowled, my mind flashing back to the painful sight of him kissing that mysterious girl. "I have seen everything with my own eyes. Don't you dare deny it."

"It must be a misunderstanding.

Who showed you what video? Tell

me the name and call that person in front of me. I will make everything clear," he declared with an air of confidence, his voice unwavering. His eyes bore into mine, but b couldn't help feeling intimidated by his imposing presence. It seemed as though no one would dare defy him.

"Please, Alex. Stop acting like an innocent guy. I know what your reputation was before marriage. But

I thought you had changed. But no, I was wrong and very stupid to

เวน

believe in you. You cannot change. You are still the same," I uttered with a mix of anger and disappointment. My heart was heavy, but L-knew I couldn't continue living a lie.

Summoning every ounce of courage,

I tossed my wedding ring at him, a

symbolic gesture of ending our

charade.

"I will send you a signed divorce paper. Please sign the papers and end this false marriage. After that, you will be free to live as your heart wishes. Nobody is going to blame you or stop you from doing anything," I taunted, raising my chin defiantly. My emotions were a whirlwind, but I was determined not to falter.

I stood before him, tall and resolute, ready to defend my decision. Initially, he seemed taken aback by my strong stance, and I couldn't help but feel a flicker of confusion at the sight.

"You are mistaken, Sarah. I am telling you. You will regret this. Give me a chance to explain myself. Please don't do this. Don't come to any conclusion without listening to both sides," he pleaded, trying to sway my resolve.

But I had grown weary of his empty promises and feigned concern. I wouldn't allow myself to fall into his trap again.

"No. We don't have anything to talk about. My decision is final, and I am not going to change it for anyone or anything," I said, a hint of vulnerability creeping into my voice as I unconsciously placed a protective hand on my belly.

"No, honey. Don't do this to us. I am not what you think. I accept I made many mistakes before our marriage. I have changed. Believe me," he

implored, his words wrapped in a deceiving charm that could sway many, but not me.

He moved towards me, attempting to grasp my hand, but I recoiled as if his touch were searing my skin. I couldn't bear for him to be near me, for fear of weakening my resolve.

"No! Just stay away from me," I tried to yell, but my voice quivered with the emotions raging within. Being in his presence was unbearable, and I needed to escape, to distance myself from the toxicity.

Without another word, I turned on my heels and ran out of his office. Tears threatened to spill, but I refused to let them fall. I had made my decision,

and I was determined to reclaim my life, free from the shackles of a loveless marriage.

Alex's POV.

What the hell just happened? Sarah stormed into the room, her face contorted with fury, and her eyes ablaze with anger. She didn't hold back, immediately accusing me of betraying her trust, of cheating on her. The accusation hit me like a ton of bricks. How could she think such a thing

when she was the center of my universe? Every thought, every feeling, revolved around her; she was the only one I wanted, the only one I ever thought about.

Feeling the weight of the situation, I

ran my trembling hand through my

hair in frustration, trying to make sense of it all. Shit. My past, my reckless playboy days, were still haunting me, casting a dark shadow over my present. The very image of myself that I once took pride in had now become a source of trouble, threatening to destroy the happiness I had found with Sarah. It was a living hell.

Divorce? The word echoed in my mind like a dreadful omen. How could she even think that I'd give up on us? I had always wanted to give her the world, to fill her life with joy and love. But now, her trust in me was shattered, and I knew I had to find a way to fix it. What had triggered this sudden outburst of doubt in her? Who had planted these poisonous seeds of mistrust in her mind, and what was this video she mentioned? I had to know the truth, and I had to know it now.

Without wasting a moment, I pulled out my phone and dialed my assistant's number, urgency pulsating through my veins. As he picked up on the other end, I spoke with a mix of desperation and determination, "Jacob! You need

to find out about something. It's very urgent. Drop everything else and focus on this. I need answers, no matter what it takes."

Chapter 478 Rejecting A Playboy

Ryder's

POV.

At 9:00 a.m. on a lazy Sunday morning, my peaceful slumber was abruptly interrupted by the incessant ringing of my phone. I groggily reached for it, wondering who could possibly be disturbing me at this ungodly hour. To my delight, Bella stirred in my arms, her tiny meows adding a touch of charm to the waking chaos.

I carefully placed Bella on the pillow, ensuring her continued comfort, before reluctantly sitting up to answer the call. The screen displayed my mother's face, which meant it was likely to be something important. I swiped the answer button and, slipping my feet into slippers, made my way to the balcony, hoping to maintain some tranquility around Bella's sleeping form.

"Hey mum! What's up? Why did you have to call so early on a Sunday morning?" I questioned, attempting to sound both concerned and slightly annoyed.

"Ryder, I've sent some pictures of the daughters from reputable families to your number. Take a look and choose one of them. I'll set up a date for you," she commanded, her tone brooking no argument.

I sighed internally, not wanting to be part of any matchmaking endeavors. "Mum, I really don't want to meet any girl, and you know that," I protested, hoping she would understand my reluctance.

Her response was one of surprise and concern. "Are you alright, Ryder?

Refusing to meet a girl? What's gotten into you? This isn't just an ordinary date. I want you to choose a girl and get married. You're turning 29, and it's

time for you to settle down and start a family," she insisted, her determination evident in her voice.

"Mum, come on. I'm still too young to get married," I argued, trying to reason with her.

She played her trump card, appealing to my emotions. "Oh no, son. I'm getting older, and I want to see you settled down before time slips away. Please, consider my feelings," she pleaded, making it harder for me to resist. "Mum! Now you're emotionally blackmailing me," I retorted, a mix of exasperation and affection in my tone.

After my mother hung up, I found myself grappling with conflicting emotions. The pressure she exerted to get me married was stressful, and I couldn't help but let out a deep sigh as I pondered my predicament. As much as I wanted to believe in a future with Bella, our relationship felt uncertain, and I knew she wasn't ready to take it to the next level.

Nevertheless, I had to find out where we stood and what she truly desired.

As I reentered the room, there was Bella, emerging from the bathroom with a bright smile that momentarily eased the tension in my heart. "Good morning, Ryder!" she greeted me, and I couldn't resist leaning in to kiss her forehead affectionately. "Morning, baby girl," I replied tenderly, grateful for her presence.

Curiosity got the better of her, and she inquired about the phone call. "Who was that?" she asked, sensing my unease.

"Oh, just my mom calling this morning," I disclosed, trying to keep my emotions in check.

Her concern was evident, and I could see her trying to read my face. "Is everything alright?" she probed gently.

With hesitation, I revealed the reason for my mother's call, "Yeah, my mom wanted me to meet some girls." I observed Bella's reaction closely, hoping for some indication of how she felt about it.

At first, her face showed a fleeting frown, betraying a hint of discomfort, but almost instantly, she masked her emotions, and her countenance became blank and unreadable. Her eyes, usually so expressive, turned cold and distant, making it difficult to gauge her true feelings. I tried to delve into her mysterious eyes, but they revealed nothing. She looked away, feigning

interest in her phone, as if the topic was of no consequence to her.

Feeling a pang of hurt, I couldn't help but express my disappointment, "You don't want to ask me why my mum wanted me to meet those girls?" I yearned for her to show some concern, to exhibit a desire to understand my feelings.

Her response was surprisingly indifferent, as if she had detached herself from the situation entirely. "No. I mean, it's between you and your mum," she replied nonchalantly, her words cutting through me like ice. "Who am I to interfere? That's your life, and you are free to live it as you want," she added indifferently.

I could feel anger and frustration bubbling up inside me. "Do you really not care if my mother wants me to marry a girl of her choice? It doesn't bother you," I asked, my voice trembling with suppressed anger.

Her response shocked me, as she remained calm and matter-of-fact. "Why should it bother me? We are not committed. We are not in a relationship.

You should get married, and your family wants it too," she stated, causing my frustration to escalate.

Feeling a mix of desperation and vulnerability, I couldn't hold back any

longer. "Bella, I want to settle down with you," I confessed shamelessly, my heart laid bare before her. I knew she might not fully understand, given her

age, but I had to take the chance. I was willing to set aside my pride and beg her to marry me.

Her response was not what I had

hoped for, and it hit me like a heavy blow. "Are you mad? Ryder, I am still in school want to complete my studies want to make my career first. Ioan't think about settling down in my teenage years. It would be better if you listen to your family and get married to a girl of their choice," she said curtly, closing the door on any hopes I had.

The pain I felt was overwhelming. She seemed unfazed, as if my happiness meant little to her. I was at a loss for words, my heart aching with the realization that our paths might be diverging irreversibly.

"So... After marriage, we won't be the same, you know that?" I asked, trying to gauge her emotions. She nodded, confirming my worst fears. "Can you

live without me?" I questioned, wanting to understand just how much she was willing to hurt me.

"Listen, Ryder. I had never expected this from you. You were always a practical guy who thinks from the brain, not from the heart. It's obvious that we can't continue this relationship after marriage," she said sternly. Her response was like a knife to the heart. Fuck! She was blunt.

"This is not you, Bella. Tell me what you are hiding? Why are you so

insecure about us? Why don't you see that I don't want anyone else but you to live with me, to stay with me forever," I probed, determined to break through her facade.

She seemed hesitant, struggling to find the right words to express her thoughts. Finally, she admitted, "Ryder... We are not meant to be together. We are so different. I mean... I like you, but I never think about it." Her

voice quivered as she continued, "I don't think it will work. You should be

with someone classy, elegant, and as gorgeous as you are. I am too simple to be with you, almost a nerd."

The words spilled from her lips as she nervously bit them, revealing her self-doubt.

Her misconceptions about herself struck me like a dagger to the heart. I couldn't bear to hear her belittle herself when, in my eyes, she was the epitome of beauty and grace. The fire of my affection for her blazed even brighter, and I closed the distance between us, tenderly cupping her face in my hands.

"No, baby girl. You are so wrong," I

declared with a soft intensity. "You are the most hot and gorgeous girl! have ever seen in my life. You are the only girl my heart desires all the time. Dean never get enough of you, after thousands of times making love to you in 24 hours, and you have no idea how stunningly incredible you are."

But she resisted my attempts to reassure her, pulling my hands away from her face.

"Stop it, Ryder. Just stop it," she pleaded, her tone carrying a mix of vulnerability and resolve. "Don't make it more complicated. I like to live in a planned way, and I have planned everything in my life, and marriage and settling down are not on the list. Don't force me to do anything which I don't want," she asserted, putting an end to any hopes of a future together.

Her decision felt like a miracle turned nightmare. I, the former playboy, was begging to get married, while she, the sweet and normal girl, wasn't ready for it at all. It was a cruel twist of fate that left me feeling lost and defeated. With her verdict made, I knew I had to move on to plan

Chapter 479

My futile attempts to incite jealousy in Bella by meeting other girls left me feeling disheartened. No matter who I interacted with, she remained composed and collected, as if her emotions were impervious to my antics. Undeterred, I had to switch to plan B. I smirked as I thought about it because it was foolproof, and Ryder never failed to get what he wanted.

"Bella, I have planned a vacation for us," I called her while she was in school.

I smiled as I could imagine her eyes widened in surprise.

"What? No, Ryder, I can't go on vacation, and, most of all, I have some assignments to complete," she replied, her voice tinged with reluctance.

"Come on, Bella. Mum is persistent about my marriage, so it will be our last vacation together. I am sending my secretary. Give her your passport. We are going to Switzerland for a week. Just me and you. I want to spend some time with you alone," I insisted, hoping she would agree.

"Abroad trip? You will get clicked by the media, and I don't want to come into the Limelight," she worried, her brows furrowing in concern.

"Oh no, that will not be a problem. I will make sure of it. Don't worry about it," I assured her, trying to sound as convincing as possible.

I had to do this because I wanted her to be with me for a lifetime. I couldn't marry a girl other than Bella. I wanted to confess my love to her. She was my everything. When she refused me before, I realized how much I loved

her, and I never told her this - that she had a very special place in my heart, which no other girl could ever occupy. I just hoped she would accept my proposal during this romantic trip to Switzerland.

As we walked through the airport, I couldn't resist the urge to hold her hand.

"What are you doing? Ryder, you are holding my hand, and if we get clicked, it will be news," she said, making a face, her hand trying to pull away from mine.

"Come on, Bella. I do want to hold your hand all the time, and nobody can take this right from me. I damn care about anybody but you, and please, for God's sake, stop being scared of the media. My men can handle that," I frowned, feeling a mix of frustration. Due to her insecurities, I couldn't kiss her in public as much as I yearned to.

The moment we touched down in the city, we swiftly collected our luggage and proceeded through the customs check. As we emerged from the airport, a taxi from the hotel awaited our arrival. I had reserved the finest seven-star hotel in Switzerland.

Upon checking into our luxurious suite, I gently pulled her into my embrace and began to undress her. Throughout the day and into the night, I made passionate love to her, savoring every moment as if time itself had halted. I was determined not to miss a single second without worshipping her body. To me, she was a goddess, and I longed to demonstrate the depth of my adoration, offering her pleasures that no one else could provide. She begged for more, her screams of pleasure echoing, and her moans calling out my name. I gave her everything she wanted and made love to her all day and night long. I ceased only when she was exhausted and fell into a deep slumber.

Holding her hand firmly, I led her to

the venue where I had arranged an enchanting open-air candlelit dinner,

to keep us

complete with portable fire or on ot table was adorned with a Cake

warm. In the center, a

and chilled champagne.

Accompanied by the soft melodies of violinists, I invited her to dance with me-a dance filled with intimacy and affection.

"What was all this for?" she asked once more, her curiosity piqued.

"You really have no patience, baby girl," I smirked, then knelt down and presented a ring.

She gasped and instinctively covered her mouth in surprise.

"I love you, baby girl. Truly, deeply. I can't imagine my life without you. I

won't marry anyone else because my heart belongs only to you. Will you do me the honor of being my wife, my life partner?" I finally asked, my emotions laid bare. Her eyes welled up with tears, and her trembling lips attempted to form words. "Ryder, what are you saying? You know this is impossible. My parents will never agree to this," she fretted, her heart torn between love and the obstacles ahead.

Her words brought a frown to my face. "Why? Our families are friends, and we have a strong bond. I don't think they would object to our marriage."

She sighed, trying to compose her thoughts. "You don't understand. The status gap between us will be the reason. My father values self-respect more than anything else. He would never want me to marry a mafia boss.

He has led a life of integrity and

honor. When came here for

admission, he warned me not to get involved with you beyond friendship. He made it clear that the status gap between our families could strain their friendship. Even though your father insisted on me staying with your family, my father

wanted me to stay away from the mafia and your family. That's why he

never allowed me to stay with my family or with you, no matter how much your father insisted."

"But that's not the case, my love. You know my family adores you unconditionally. They would be overjoyed to learn about our love, and they will gladly support our marriage. If you're worried about your father, I promise you, I will talk to him and do everything in my power to convince him," earnestly expressed, trying to alleviate her concerns.

"But, Ryder..." She whined again, her doubts still lingering.

"No, my dear. Just tell me what you truly desire. I want to know your answer from your heart. If you're ready to be with me, then leave all the rest to me," I reassured her, the ring still held up before her, awaiting her response. "Yes, Ryder. I love you more than anything in this world, and yes, I will marry you," she finally declared, a smile breaking through her emotional barrier. As she accepted the ring, I gently slipped it onto her finger, sealing our commitment. On my feet once more, I kissed her like there was no tomorrow. I picked her up in my arms and took her to our room and made love all night long to tell her that I loved her in more than one ways.

 

Chapter 480

The sound of my phone jolted me awake from my slumber, disturbing the peaceful moment I had been sharing with Ryder. Gently, I disentangled myself from his embrace, aware that I was still unclothed, and hurriedly pulled the sheet to cover myself before answering the call.

"Mum!" I greeted cheerfully, my heart still elated from Ryder's heartfelt confession of love.

"Bella, what is going on?" Her voice carried a tone of anger.

Confused by her question, I asked, "What do you mean, mum?"

"You and Ryder are all over the news, and your father is furious," she complained.

My mind raced, trying to comprehend the situation. "What? I don't understand, mum. What's happening?"

"Where are you right now, Bella?" Her concern was evident. "I am... I am..." I hesitated, unable to come up with a lie.

"Are you with Ryder?" She guessed, and I fell silent, confirming her suspicion.

"Why did you do this, Bella?" Her disappointment in me was palpable.

Suddenly, the phone was snatched from my hand, and Ryder took the call.

"Aunt Jenna! Ryder speaking. I understand..." He began, pausing to listen to my mother's response.

"Don't worry. We're heading over there to explain everything," he reassured, pausing briefly to listen to my mom's words.

"I know Uncle is angry, but I'll convince him. Believe me," he said with determination, listening intently to my mother's response.

"Okay, bye, Aunt Jenna," he said, ending the call before turning his attention towards me.

"What about the news?" I anxiously inquired.

He smirked and played the recent news video on his phone. The footage displayed our romantic

moments from last night-Ryder's et

heartfelt proposal, the tender kiss, and him lifting me into his arms. Feeling overwhelmed, I couldn't help

but hide my face betwe"help

palms.

He chuckled at my reaction.

"It's too late to be shy now, baby girl. The whole world knows that you belong to me," he proclaimed with pride.

"You did it intentionally," I said, my eyes widening with realization.

"Yes, I planned this. I had a feeling that once you accepted my proposal, this would be my strategy to win your father over," he admitted, shrugging casually. "Now he has to agree. The entire world knows about us, and when I tell him how much I love you and that I'm the only one who can make you truly happy, like no other man can, he'll have to give us his blessings."

Oh, my goodness! My man was absolutely incredible. He would go to any extent to claim me as his own. I had no doubt now about the depth of his love for me.

In his private jet, we soared to my parents' place, where Ryder's persistence won over my father's blessings. The news about us had already thrilled Ryder's family, and they eagerly began preparations for our wedding. Ryder, impatient as ever, couldn't bear the thought of waiting any longer. He swiftly chose the earliest available date for our wedding, which happened to be just three months away. He feared that I might have a change of heart, but little did he know that he was all I ever wanted. He was my life, my world. I loved him more than words could express.

I stood at the entrance of the venue, anticipation Coursing through my veins. On the other side of the grand wooden door, a room full of people eagerly awaited the bride's entrance. Surrounding me were a swarm of busy individuals, ensuring that every detail was perfect for this

momentous occasion.

"Are you ready?" My dad beamed at me, and I couldn't help but return the smile.

Taking a nervous breath, I took in the breathtaking surroundings. The entrance was adorned with white

flowers, elegantly lining almost every wall, and the door itself was adorned with delicate golden petals. White

and gold were the prevailing themes

of the decoration.

My father grinned and offered his hand, which I eagerly wrapped mine around. On the other side of that door stood Ryder, waiting patiently for me to take those momentous steps forward.

With a gentle push, the doors opened, and I could feel my heart racing. The music swelled, and I exhaled, trying to steady my nerves.

The aisle stretched before me, adorned with a luxurious red carpet and tree-like structures adorned with flowers, creating an enchanting pathway. The ceiling seemed to cascade with a floral waterfall, adding to the magical atmosphere.

But amidst all the beauty, my eyes found him first. Ryder, standing tall in a sleek black three-piece suit, exuding handsomeness that could sweep me off my feet and make me beg for his love till the end of time.

"Get a grip, girl. He's going to be yours for eternity," I told myself, trying to quell the fluttering butterflies in my stomach.