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Holding everything in
Last Updated:
2024-03-25 06:44:39
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A Marriage of Convenience Answers
I couldn’t speak coherent words at the moment, so I chose silence. Each time I thought I might try to speak; sobs rocked my body. I hated that this was the moment that James chose to come home.For years, I’ve managed to keep my feelings in check. I never wanted him to see me as weak. Not only that, but I needed to harness every ounce of strength I possessed just to make it through those years.After a while, James sat across from me on the floor of our kitchen. His long legs stretched all the way from the island to the opposite counters. He didn’t try to force me to talk or ask any questions, he just kept me company in the silence.“I forgot the sugar in my shortbread cookies,” I whispered, needing to break that silence that stretched between us. It was the first thing that came to my mind, despite the looming bomb that James had dropped on me earlier in the day.“Can’t you just add it now?” James questioned, sounding genuinely confused.My lip quivered as I finally raised my face fr
Last Updated : 2024-03-26A Marriage of Convenience Contentedness (James POV)
How can a day start so perfectly, only to turn into an absolute shit show in a matter of moments. And it’s only gone downhill since then. Marina forced my hand this morning when I wasn’t ready. When Rosalind wasn’t ready. And now, as I sit on the floor of my own fucking kitchen; I can see that she’s hanging on by a thread. I had next to no relationship experience before the attack on my pack. I was waiting for my mate, and then my mate was in a coma, and I was so angry at the world, that I didn’t bother putting in even an ounce of effort when it came to my marriage with Rosalind. She was the perfect wife. I see that now as I sit across from her, staring at her tear-stained face. Rosa was always there when I needed her. She took every demand that I made with stride and put in her all despite my overly shitty attitude. She spent hours preparing for galas and events, slapping on a fake smile, and laughing at my fake jokes for the greater good. For this fucking stupid image that I’d be
Last Updated : 2024-04-01A Marriage of Convenience Questions
“Can you talk to your wolf?”The way that he'd spoken about him like they were old friends made me think the answer would be yes, but there was so much I didn't know.James’ large hand engulfed mine as we walked away from the house and towards the trees that filled the back part of our property. The leaves had turned various shades of reds and yellows, and would soon fall off the trees, tumbling to the ground until spring. Fall was always my favorite season because from the balcony of my room, the view was breathtaking. I’ve considered pulling out a canvas and paintbrush, and painting the view, but it’s been years since I’ve bothered with art. “Typically, yes. But I’ve not been able to communicate with Onyx since the attack.”I didn’t miss the sadness in his voice as the words left his mouth. He told me earlier that his wolf was like his other half and losing him felt like he’d lost a piece of himself. “What is that like?” I peered up at him just as a smile overtook his face. “He
Last Updated : 2024-04-02A Marriage of Convenience Harsh truth
James’ grip on my hand slowly loosened before his hand fell from mine followed by a halt in his steps.The sun fell through the veil of trees, created these beautiful sun streaks that appeared opaque. Like you could reach your hand out and feel the rays themselves. It was beautiful and created the illusion that this moment was anything other than what it was.My heart ached with every beat in his silence.“The Moon Goddess doesn’t give someone two mates typically.” His voice was barely above a whisper and the words didn’t do anything to soothe over the pain that filled my chest at his avoidance of the question.“But she did to you…”Now my voice was barely above a whisper as the words left my lips.James kicked a rock, his eyes following the way it tumbled through the dirt before opening his mouth again… only to close it before anything came out. His fingers pushed through his hair before turning towards me, “I’m usually not one to be at a loss for words.”I could feel his nerves, but
Last Updated : 2024-04-03A Marriage of Convenience Asking for help (James POV)
Rosalind said she was tired and needed to rest, but I didn’t buy it. I knew she’d retreated to her room to wallow in her tears.Our conversation took a quick turn earlier, just as I’d expected, and the moment the question left her lips; I knew that I couldn’t give her the answer that she was looking for.My back hits the leather of my office chair as I lift my feet onto the edge of my desk.I’ve decided that the Moon Goddess has it out for me. She mated me with not only a witch, but a human.Reaching up, I scrub my hand over my face, groaning as the chair leans further back.I don’t have a fucking plan for this. I thought I’d be mated to some Alpha’s daughter or something that would make a hell of a lot more sense than whatever this is.“Fuck,” I leaned forward, slamming my fists against the desktop.My fingers dialed the only person I knew that could figure shit out when I needed it, “Mr. Wood, what lovely endeavor does your bank account allow today?” Dante chirped through the other
Last Updated : 2024-04-04A Marriage of Convenience Bold
I heard the sound of the punching bag for two hours before James finally stopped last night. Then, like usual, he spent thirty minutes in the shower, but this time; he didn’t sing.That was something I didn’t realize how badly I clung to prior to leaving the first time. Then when I’d come back home, I found myself smiling as I lingered just far enough away to still hear him while being undetected.But last night…. I heard nothing.My eyes widened as I caught a glimpse of myself in the bathroom mirror. The whites of my eyes were bloodshot, and my under-eye bags had bags from how puffy they were. My tears had created a damp spot on the left side of my head, and the hair had flattened against my scalp.After a quick shower, I walked to my closet only to realize that I’d never made the time to remove all of the clothing that Marina had damaged.Closing my eyes, I took a leveling breath. I wasn’t going to continue to let her affect me.I grabbed the robe hanging in the bathroom, tying it o
Last Updated : 2024-04-05A Marriage of Convenience New day
After spending the day rummaging around an endless string of shops, I’d purchased replacement clothing as well as the sexiest dress I’ve ever tried on.James texted me while I was out and told me he’d be by to get me at six for the event he was taking me to.I’d curled my hair into soft waves that I’d pinned into a low pony. My eyes were more natural, focusing on lashes while choosing a red lip to go along with my dress.The dress itself hugged my body like a glove. The low, square neckline left little to imagination as well as the double slits in the front. I had to wear a thin black lace thong so that nothing would show when I walked. The dress itself was a satin black slip dress with a red lace overlay.The splurge of the day wasn’t even the beautiful dress. It was the six-inch red bottomed platform Louboutin’s that made the muscles in my legs look amazing beneath the slits.Today felt like a new day for me.As I carefully walked down the steps, the front door opened, and in walked
Last Updated : 2024-04-06A Marriage of Convenience Addicted(James POV)
Tonight was the Gathering of wolves. It was a full moon, and I’d skipped out on the last three years due to Onyx being missing, but Dante had texted an idea. Maybe if I spent more time in my element, he would be able to break through whatever barrier held him back.I wasn’t walking into tonight with any expectations.Not in regard to Onyx anyways. Rosa on the hand, well she would be at my mercy tonight after her little display this morning.When I’d called Alpha Xaden, he was more than happy to save Rosa and I a seat. I was grateful that Blood Moon was willing to host this year since Alpha Xaden and I were allies prior to the attack.Rosalind looked absolutely stunning tonight. If Onyx were here, he would have ordered her turn around and go change. She was for our eyes only and I know the moment I walk her into the Gathering; She will be the center of everyone’s attention.“Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight?”The way her cheeks heated with every praise lit something warm
Last Updated : 2024-04-07
Latest chapter
A Marriage of Convenience On fire
Searing pain rolls through my body. My back arches against the pole, and I feel myself ripping at the restraints.A scream echoes around the warehouse, but I’m not even sure if it’s mine.Everything hurts and I feel as if I have lava swimming through my veins.“Rosie!” Shawn’s voice shouts. “What’s happening?”“It…. IT HURTS,” I scream again, unable to contain it.I’ve experienced pain. In the last year I’ve not only been bitten by a shark, but also a werewolf. Both of which hurt more than I care to admit, but I’d get eaten alive by a shark slowly over this.“JUST KILL ME,” I scream at the flashing light bulb in the corner.“Rosie, what is happening?” I hear him grunt. Something keeps hitting my fingers, but I can’t tell if I’m doing it or if Shawn is.“Please,” I sob as the pain tears through my chest. “It’s too much.”My vision tunnels, and I feel weaker by the second, but the pain eases up, and I finally fill my lungs with a sharp inhale.“Everything hurts, Shawn,” I whimper, feeli
A Marriage of Convenience I'm not leaving you
“Are they off our backs?” Marina practically chased James down as he calmly walked us back into the warehouse.She scoffed when she saw me untied and with free will, “You can be so foolish, James Wood,” her voice echoed around me, but I spun on my heel, pinning her with a glare, “I followed through on my end of the deal. Shawn needs food and pain killers.”Marina let out a low growl, stomping towards me, but James stopped her, “A deal is a deal, Marina. Go. I’ll stay here.”“You can’t be serious,” Marina moved in front of James, shoulder checking me.“Dead. Serious,” he snarled, and out of my peripherals, I saw her spine straighten.Good. She deserves that tiny ounce of fear, and so much more if I had my say.The heavy thudding of her boots as she stomped out of the warehouse was like music to my ears.“There are rags and soap in the bathroom. You can clean him up, but he stays restrained,” James walks away, disappearing out of sight.I practically bolt around to see Shawn sleeping, h
A Marriage of Convenience Hopes and lies
“Rosa, dear,” Joanne grabbed me, pulling me in for a tight hug. Her embrace was warm, and for the second time in the last ten minutes, I wanted to collapse. “How are you doing?” She pulled my body away just enough to look me in my eyes, “And don’t you lie to me. My nephew can be a real pain in the ass.”I snorted at that.She had no idea. “I’m good,” I plaster on a fake smile, “Wishing I had another piece of your apple pie.”“Darlin’,” she winks, “You come on over anytime for a piece of that pie.”“Better be careful,” James’ voice holds a playful tone, “She might visit every day with a promise like that.”Joanne winked again, “And you tell me how that would be a problem?”She released me, walking right up to James and wrapping her arms around him. He was stiff at first before realizing he was meant to be acting and wrapped his arms around her with a quick pat on her back.How do I make it clear that I’m not here by my own free will? I silently wished I had abilities like they do to s
A Marriage of Convenience Illusions
“Try any tricks, and I’ve got a prepared message to Marina to end pretty boys’ life,” James snarled as we approached Joanne’s pub.It looks just as I remember, minus the heavy number of cars filling the now empty spaces in the parking lot.Why I agreed to this meeting, I have no idea. My nerves have been haywire since I stepped out of the shower and James thrust a new cardigan at me in the event that it was possible we were photographed leaving the bank.I’d considered the fact that maybe he’d gone insane, but when he does something as calculated as having me wear a different outfit based solely on the fact that someone possibly snapped our photo, I squash that thought like an unwanted bug.James is too cold. Too calculated for this to be fake, and each moment that passes by trapped in this hell with him pushes me further and further from the feelings that captivated me for so long.The man I’d loved was fake. An illusion meant to lure me in like a Venus fly trap. His words were like
A Marriage of Convenience If we make it out
My breath catches in my throat, eyes wide, as I stare at James and Marina.James’ skin is flushed, and his hair looks as if he’s spent the last thirty minutes running his fingers through it.Such a simple act used to bring a smile to my face, but now, it only makes me angry that I ever saw it as anything more. For years, I overlooked everything about James that was… unfavorable because there was a tiny voice in the back of my mind telling me that he was the one.The Goddess…. His Goddess paired my soul with his. Separated one into two, and what I thought was fate brought us together. I’d ignored the hateful look in his eyes when I’d work on Marina. I’d shielded myself from the words he’d spewed, hoping that someday, the gentleness that he’d whispered into Marina’s ear would be directed at me.I was foolish. I’d accepted years of mistreatment, and dare I say abuse, for a man that was never going to see me as anything more than a revenge plot.I’d given him everything, and for a moment,
A Marriage of Convenience We have a problem
“Hey,” I whisper, “Just tell me if I’m moving too fast.”Shawn lets out a frustrated sigh, his honeyed eyes freezing my movements. It’s clear that he hates the fact that I’m being forced to spoon feed him like this or take care of him at all. I can’t think of a time growing up when I ever remember him allowing anyone to take care of him. When he was sick, he’d fake it, telling my mother that it wasn’t that bad, even when he could barely get himself to the bathroom.“Stop,” I whisper, pleading with my eyes, “Let me take care of you without you feeling like I shouldn’t. You’re weak, and I need to know that you’re going to be okay. Food will help you heal.”“You shouldn’t have bargained with him,” Shawn gritted his teeth. “I would rather have died strapped to this pole than to know that he did you a favor.”“I don’t care about any of that, Shawn,” I protest, but he cuts me off, “I do,” and then growls out a sound that mimics pain.I stuff the spoonful of soup into his mouth, knowing that
A Marriage of Convenience Worried(Chris POV)
Another day, another bottle. Glancing around my apartment, I internally cringe at the mess. Am I fucked up? Is that even a question anymore? I snort at my own thoughts. I’m definitely fucked up. As I go to stand, my head swims with dizziness, sending me hurdling back onto the couch where I’d fallen asleep last night. My back aches like nobody’s business considering I’m six foot four, and around two-hundred twenty pound. Couches aren’t made for men like me. I peer over the back of the couch to my kitchen. The digital numbers on the microwave sway from side to side, two of them merging into one. It’s twelve thirty. Practically another day gone. I’ve been here before. Years ago, I ended up with a short stint in rehab. I’d paid my dues, said all the things I needed to say, convinced the doctors with a good old fashion lie, and boom, I was all better they said. I’d say the jokes on them, but really, the only joke is me. Rosalind was always the star in our household. I didn’t hate
A Marriage of Convenience The letter
“Did she complete the task?” Marina speaks through gritted teeth as James walks me back inside the warehouse blindfolded. He didn’t bother zip tying my wrists, as I was being cooperative. “Flawlessly,” James purred, and I heard a relieved sigh fall from Marina’s lips. “What is with that necklace?” I question now that we’re no longer at the bank. Not only that, but James’ mood tanked after three separate people asked for photographs with him as we left the bank, so I didn’t bother asking on the ride home. “Nothing that concerns you,” Marina snapped, and I heard her step closer, grabbing James and planting a sloppy kiss on his lips. The act was intentional to grate on my nerves, and I wanted to claw her eyes out. I wasn’t jealous any longer, but it still stung having your failures rubbed in your face. “My father thought it concerned me,” I interrupted their make-out fest, causing James to let out a groan, “I don’t remember you talking this much.”“My talking didn’t seem to bother y
A Marriage of Convenience Not the first time I've faked it
James white knuckles the steering wheel. My normally relaxed husband is glancing around every few seconds as if the boogeyman might step out of the shadows at any moment. If only he realized he just needed a mirror. “Are you paranoid?” I wring my hands in my lap. Noticing the raw skin around my wrists, I tugged the sleeves to the cardigan James gave me before we left. Couldn’t have anyone at the bank seeing the marks left behind by my dear husband. Though he told me if anyone noticed, we like it rough in the bedroom. My stomach recoiled at that thought, but I nodded in agreement. The job was simple. Go to the bank, smile, pretend that we’re a loving couple, and get the contents of the lockbox. I’d done this dance with him many times in the past, I just never imagined I’d be back here.“Why would I be paranoid?” he snapped.“You just keep looking around. Checking the rear and sideview mirrors,” I purse my lips, “I doubt anyone is looking for me.”“I’m not taking any chances.” His
