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Chapter 6
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2024-10-29 19:42:56Roman
This must be the best fucking day of my life.Quite frankly, that was all which was going through my mind as I paced back and forth with a succeeded smile on my lips. It felt like I had just won the lottery, and no one could take that away.“Are you really my daddy?” The young boy who would be the answer to all of my problems asked. I knelt, reaching for his hand.Thirty minutes had passed, and in those minutes, Mars’ had shown me how confident and brave he could be. The right qualities for a crown prince. Mother would like this.“I sure am.” I nodded. “Which makes you a prince as well.”He was a prince, no doubt. I would make him my crown prince. I would use him as a pawn and shape him into the young heir my family always wanted.As for Audrey? I would have to make her my crown princess, at least until I had Mars and all the officials under control.“When is mommy coming back?” Mars asked. I was at a lossRelated chapters
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 7
AudreyThis is not my bed.I rubbed my eyes and yawned before scanning the large bedroom. That’s right. I was at the palace.After Mars insisted on staying here, I could not decline his request. I would not take away the opportunity for him to have a relationship with his dad, no matter how much I despised the so-called crown prince.With a smile on my lips, I turned to wake my son, but I couldn’t find him beside me.“Mars!”I sat up straight and panicked as I looked around the room, but I could not find my son. “Mars!”In a hurry, I jumped from the bed and opened the large door leading to the hallway. “Mars!”My worst nightmare became a reality.A young maid ran over and bowed. “Excuse me, miss.” She spoke. “Are you looking for the boy?”Desperate, I grabbed her hands. “Yes, do you know where he is?”“Yes, miss.” The maid nodded. “He’s having breakfast with the royal family. The crown
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 8
AudreyMarry him?Is this man insane?My jaw dropped. “Roman—““No, listen!” Roman grabbed my hands, shocking me even more than he already had. “I haven’t been able to do a lot for you or Mars, and for that, I’m so sorry.” He apologized. “I talked with your sister, and she told me that your financial situation isn’t the best at the moment—so please let me help you…both of you.”Did he talk with Ashley? How did my sister even find out about my financial situation, and more importantly, why was she telling the crown prince of Penevia my business?Embarrassed, I turned my head. “I don’t need your money, and you can look after your son from a distance,” I sneered. “Despite that, I’m not cut out to be a princess, and we don’t even love each other.”“I think you’ll make a great princess,” Roman said. “And we can learn to love each other.”Learn to love each other?Just hearing him speak was enough to get me to puke. Was I really talking to the same man who had an ego larger than the palace?
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 9
Audrey“Oh my god, sister!” Ashley squealed, pacing back and forth. “Do you even realize you’re marrying the prince?”“Do you even know what this means?”I repeatedly bumped my head against the closet, hoping for all of this to be nothing more than a stupid dream.What the hell was I actually doing here?After returning to my room, the first thing I grabbed was a notebook to write down my terms. Being a princess for a year under my conditions didn’t sound bad.How difficult could it be?I bet all the royals did was sit down and do nothing.I took another look at my notes, doubting my decision. Was I really that desperate for money? I hadn’t even asked Mars about how he truly felt about all of this. What if he ended up changing his mind?“Ashley, I’ll call the prince and tell him all of this was nothing more than a stupid mistake—““Shut it!” Ashley slammed her hand over my mouth and held me in a chokehold. “You’re lucky we aren’t twins—don’t you dare ruin this for us!”“Us?” I managed
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 10
Roman“Cousin, I still believe you have officially lost it.” Brandon raised his glass as a mocking grin appeared on his lips. “I mean, marrying a commoner?”“I guess so.” I clicked our glasses. Yes, I had lost it—but I was running out of options, and Audrey and that little boy both came as a blessing. They were exactly what I needed not only to save the kingdom but also to get Soliste and King Abel off our backs.I grabbed the liquor bottle and waved at my bodyguard, beckoning him to come over. “Come on, another glass for you—Dalton!”As politely as ever, Dalton bowed his head. “Your highness—““Ah!” I shook my head. “Roman.”Dalton sighed. “Roman, I have to refuse—““As your future king, I order you!”Startled, Dalton had once again bowed his head before stepping closer to fill his glass. Although we had known each other for a long time, he had been hypnotized by his father’s ways. His father, Lotus, had been the head of the royal security for years—so it was only a given that he wou
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 11
Audrey“The 365 days will start from the day we get married.” Roman cleared his throat. “We’re allowed to see other people but perhaps a bit discreet to avoid any scandals.”As long as he wouldn’t be touching me, I had no complaints.“Oh, and don’t fall for me.” The cocky smirk plastered on Roman’s lips looked hilarious. He was the perfect definition of an arrogant prince, expecting everyone to be at his feet.The sun had set, and just as promised—I had found myself in Roman’s room to read him my terms. Of course, the crown prince’s ego was so huge he felt the need to go first.“Don’t you worry about that—Roman,” I spoke sarcastically. “I’ll try to hold myself back.”Unable to see I was making fun of him, Roman smiled gratefully. “Thank you.”Ignoring his behavior, I grabbed my notebook to read him my terms. In my opinion, they weren’t that complicated, and I had actually kept it nice considering the circumstances.“I want to travel freely between Penevia and home,” I told Roman, look
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 12
Audrey“I guess that’s the story.” Roman held the queen’s hand across the table, telling his own version of the messed-up truth.“She couldn’t forget about me, traveled all the way to Penevia—fell in love with me, and after giving it some time, I’ve decided to give her a chance.”Sure.I glanced at the massive ring on my finger. Roman had gone all out for this.Since we finalized our fake story, we had been waiting for the perfect time to tell the king and queen about our engagement. On the opposite side of me sat Queen Mary, Lord Crawford, and the most important man in the kingdom, King Edward.King Edward bought the whole story, not questioning my intentions. He leaned in his chair with a father-like smile, delighted someone like Roman could ever settle down.Queen Mary and Lord Crawford seemed a bit more hesitant, but Roman had already told me that wouldn’t matter because their doubts would get washed away by their greed to make Mars the crown prince.“This could save the entire ki
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 13
AudreyBreathing in the nice and flowery scent of my small but cozy apartment felt great.The palace was excellent, and all, but nothing could beat my personal space.Well, personal space?There wasn’t any left with Dalton breathing in my neck, not to forget the security in front of my house, who were definitely not looking suspicious at all. Note the sarcasm.Thank god, Ashley decided to go her own way for the day—the only thing left for her to do was keep her mouth shut about the engagement.“If there’s anything you want to bring with you—you should tell me right away, so I can take care of it,” Dalton proposed.“I supposed I won’t be able to wear ripped jeans as the crown princess—so I don’t think so.” I chuckled. “I should just play it safe and go shopping.”“Not necessary. There’s already been a wardrobe prepared for you in Penevia.”“Of course.” I breathed, feeling anxious. These people were more prepared than I would ever be. How did they even know my size?“I want to bring my
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 14
Roman“It looks like everything is going the way you wanted.” Brandon squuezed my shoulder, acknowledging my win.In the royal hall stood mother and Lord Crawford with a small entourage to organize the royal banquet, which would also serve as an engagement party.“I don’t know, Brandon.” I felt unsure. “When has mother ever been so easy and accepting about anything?”“You do need an heir, so I guess she doesn’t really mind Audrey’s background.”“Perhaps.”Bringing Audrey and Mars to the airport and leaving them in Dalton’s care was the right thing to do. Royal wedding preparations were known to be demanding and exhausting. They would need the break.I also believed I needed the break and had not expected to feel this empty. I guess I got used to Mars’ laughter and Audrey’s offensive but also hilarious remarks.Especially after receiving the news confirming that Mars and I were a perfect match and that he was, indeed, my son. Of course, I did not doubt that for a second, but having it
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Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 40
Audrey"So, you want us to stay in Penevia?" Ashley searched for confirmation. I had brought both Ashley and Kennedy together so they could listen to my request."Yes.”"As your... ladies-in-waiting?" Kennedy questioned."Yes," I repeated."And we'll get paid to stay by your side?" A small smirk appeared on Ashley’s lips. I knew she was never the one to turn down good money."Yes," I answered again, my heart fluttering with hope. I wouldn’t even know what to do without the two of them in the picture.They had always been there for me, and I hoped that wouldn't change now. Especially with Rina becoming one of my ladies-in-waiting. Who knew what the other ladies would be like?Kennedy was the first to break the silence. "Girl, you don't have to ask me twice.” She stated, her words put a smile on my face. “I had already decided before you asked me.”"I'm your sister, Audrey,” Ashley added. “Of course, I'm staying. There's no way I could be leaving you alone with these people!”Their word
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 39
AudreyWith Mars clinging to my side, I walked through the palace halls. It had been a long day. Now that I was to be queen, the classes had become even more sincere. Every ounce of my energy was drained.‘Forget the mourning period, just focus on becoming queen’If those words could not get anyone punished, I’m sure that’s what the teachers would’ve told me.Mars and I were on our way to meet the Queen. Somehow he would manage to cheer her up, and I’m glad he could do that for her. I barely knew the king, but had a hard time sleeping so I couldn’t even begin to imagine what losing him must’ve felt like to her.Fake relationship or not, I would’ve lost my mind if something would happen to Roman.As we walked, a familiar figure caught my eye.Rina.She stood at a distance, but her features were so strong one could not miss it. She was not someone I wanted to see at the moment, and it was not because of fear.It was because I had not forgotten that she dreamed of being with Roman, and l
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 38
RomanI was in the red room, sitting at the round table with Brandon and Dalton. It felt just like old times when we used to play games and talk about whatever wasn’t allowed inside the palace.But this time I wasn’t interested in playing games, and they could sense that.With suspicious eyes, they tried observing me.What was Roman up to this time? Their silent question hung in the air.I poured some liquor into three glasses, the sound echoing in the quiet room, then I handed them a glass.Dalton stared at the glass. "I don't drink on the job." He declared with his lips pressed into a firm line. Quite rude to offer a drink from his king.I raised my own glass, a small smirk tugging at the corners of my mouth. "From what I've been hearing, there's been a slight personality change." I retorted, my eyes never leaving his. He had time to put his lips on my Audrey, but drinking on the job is where he’d apparently draw the line.Dalton furrowed his brows, trying to see what I was getting
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 37
RomanBeing king is a responsibility I'd never asked for, but one I was expected to embrace without question.Lord Crawford went on and on about new duties and responsibilities, his words echoing hollowly in my head. My cousin, Brandon, sat beside me and as always he was writing down notes, acting like my personal brain.It had been two days.Two days since I'd lost my father, our king and everyone around me expected me to just pick up where he left off. Expected to lead a country, lead a royal funeral, and address my people—all while dealing with my own personal grief. The thought was suffocating.My mother had given her own set of instructions. While everyone was allowed to sob, I was forced to keep my emotions in check, I couldn’t lose face in front of the ministers.The same ministers that didn’t even want me on their throne.‘The tears you had spilled at your father’s bedside. Those tears should be your last,’ She had said to me, and I listened.I did what was necessary. I put on
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 36
AudreyRoman looked around the room, his gaze was hard and cold. "Is something wrong?" He repeated.The atmosphere in the room was tense, and I couldn’t tell whether it was because everyone present felt threatened by him, or was shocked to see him in this state after yesterday.Grayson smiled, standing up a little straighter. "Your Majesty, we assumed you were occupied with your new duties." His tone sounded very different from before.Where was all that talk about Roman not being the main character?"I am never too busy for my family," Roman responded, patting Mars’ head. "Is Audrey being investigated?""Not officially,” Grayson muttered, unable to meet the king's gaze. It wasn’t hard to guess it was probably due to the embarrassment of those words he had spoken earlier.“Good.” Roman turned to me, his expression softening a little. "That means you and your friends don't have to answer anything.""That’s right." Dalton agreed, shooting me a quick glance. “It’s completely voluntary.”
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 35
AudreyThe day after the king's passing seemed even worse than yesterday. Last night, after Roman and I had returned to our room, he was unable to sleep. His eyes which had been swollen and red from crying, stayed wide open as he stared blankly at nothing. His father was gone, he called out to him while he wasn’t there, and that part was the hardest.Roman left early in the morning, without saying too much while I found myself in Mars’ room. I picked him up and brought him to a private room to tell him the news. Kennedy and Ashley were by my side.Mars was in my arms, his little body shaking as he cried for his grandfather. He was still young, but he knew he wasn’t coming back anymore.Ultimately I wanted to be the one to tell him about his grandfather’s passing before anyone else could.The conversation of death was heavy fun for a young kid, but it was necessary.By now, the news had also been shared with the people of the kingdom. It was a day of mourning, everyone was expected to
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 34
AudreyThe queen was on the floor, sobbing beside King Edward's bed. Joan, Lord Crawford, and other members of the royal family stood behind her.King Edward's lifeless body lay on the bed. pale and still.Not counting myself, the only one who didn’t belonged to the family was the royal doctor.I had never seen a corpse. This was a first, but there was no time to puke. It wasn’t about me. It was about the royal family who had lost a husband, a father, a brother.Roman quietly stepped forward and placed a gentle hand on the queen's back, helping her rise from the floor.“Oh, Roman!” She cried harder, burying her face in his chest as he held her tightly. “He’s gone!”“I know.” Roman spoke. My heart ached at the sight, and I could only imagine the pain the queen was going through.He was apologizing, but not for his father’s death. He apologized because he wasn’t there.“You’re unbelievable.” Joan looked at Roman, her voice filled with anger. "Disgusting!" She spat.“You can’t just walk
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 33
Audrey"Something's wrong. We need to get back to the palace, now," Roman spoke, breathing heavily.I whistled loudly, and Mars came running toward us. “Yes, mommy?”“We’re going.” Roman told him urgently, scooping him up without a second thought."But I don't want to go. I was playing with my new friends." Mars protested, kicking his legs. It was already late, and his spoiled behavior had always jumped out whenever he was tired.Only now was not the right time."We have to go, Mars. Now," Roman repeated, his voice stern. I tried to stop Mars from kicking his feet, but he shook his head and screamed, unhappy with the sudden departure.“I don’t want to go—““Shut up. We’re going!” Roman yelled, his volume sending shivers through my spine. Even little Mars was too terrified to say another word."Hey!" I snapped at him, taking my son from his hands. "Don't yell at him like that ever again! Are you crazy?""No matter what happens, don't pick up your phone. Tell them your phone was on sile
Contract Marriage, The King’s Pretend Wife Chapter 32
AudreyI braced myself for Roman's outburst, but all I heard was silence. Opening my eyes, I found him smiling at me. "Just kissed?"“Y-Yes?” I stuttered, surprised by his reaction. “B-But you should know that I initiated it both times. Dalton hasn’t done anything wrong. In fact, Dalton had stopped it before it could go any further.”It felt fair enough to tell him how honorable Dalton could be, even in the face of temptation.“Is he serious?” Roman scowled. "That's so Dalton-like."I couldn’t hide my giggle, thinking about how we had both made up the same word to describe him. “I’m pissed, but not for the reason you think I am.” Roman added. "I had expected more from my friend. Any sane man would've…I mean, look at you!""So you are not angry?" I asked, utterly confused."I couldn't be.” Roman replied. "We're not together, anyway, so you're free to do whatever you want."His words caused an unexpected sharp pain in my chest. For some reason, I wanted him to care. Roman scoffed. "Just
