Chapter 4

“Hey, babe.” He came in and studied my reflection in the mirror in open admiration. “You look very beautiful in that dress. So very elegant and regal.”

I studied myself, blushing at his compliment. “Thank you, baby.”

“I bet everyone’s eyes will be on you tonight but trust me, I’m ready to pluck off those wandering eyes.” He kissed my forehead.

I giggled like a love-struck teenager, putting my hands around his neck as his went around my waist. 

I considered myself lucky to have him in my life. These past five years had been full of joy and happiness. I had a daughter I loved and a man who adored us both.

Alex was nothing like Nathan. He was so attentive, so caring, so loving. 

He was everything a woman wished for and I’d grown to love him, even more than I’d always loved Nathan.

“How’s the venue search going?” He asked.

“Oh, the wedding planner said she’ll get back to me tomorrow. The florist said she’s getting the floral arrangements ready and will begin as soon as I send her the venue for the wedding.” I told him. 

It was our wedding In few weeks’ time. Preparations were being made. 

Though we had recently just arrived back to the country. Over the years, my fiance had grown his empire and became one of the most important business personalities. 

In fact, the event for tonight had been based on invitation.

I’d just learned that ex-husband, Nathan, was launching his new company and had invited many personalities to the event. 

I was going for my husband, not myself. Dad’s company was now under my guidance. He had given everything to me the day Alex had proposed to me. 

“That’s wonderful. Let’s go or we’ll be late.” He said, but was already pulling down the zipper of my dress. 

I laughed. “I thought you said we’ll be late.”

“I don’t mind being late.” His tone had taken on a lusty edge. “I want my woman.”

His mouth found mine and clashed hungrily. I held onto him as he carried me to the bed. Gently and lovingly, he peeled off every clothing and soon had me thrashing wildly about the bed as he had me succumbing to his touch and shivering under his mouth.

It was a while later before we got to the event. There was the press and other social media personalities taking pictures and trying to fetch for gossip. 

The atmosphere was celebratory and welcoming as my fiance and I stepped in. 

“I hope this is not uncomfortable for you?” Alex asked, genuine concern swimming in his eyes.

I offered him a brilliant smile. “No. He’s my past and he’ll always remain there.”

His lips lightly brushed my cheek. “I’m glad. Now, let’s go greet acquaintances and friends.”

He had spotted some of his business friends and acquaintances. 

“Hello, Mr. Johnson.” That familiar voice took me back to the past but it was only for a second before I composed myself.

Alex and I turned to see Nathan. He was taken aback when he saw me. 

“Hello, Mr. Jenkins.” Alex greeted.

But Nathan’s attention had been drawn to me. “Paula?”

“It’s Miss Johnson to you. Soon-to-be Mrs. Gray.” I flashed my engagement ring in his face. 

Alex pulling me even closer to himself didn’t go unnoticed by Nathan who could only stare in shock. 

“If you don’t mind, my fiance and I were making pleasantries.” I stared in a slightly rude tone. “Babe, can we go?” I turned to Alex.

“Nice to meet you, Mr. Jenkins and thank you for inviting us. Also, congratulations on your new company.” My fiance uttered politely and made to leave with me. 

I was in disbelief when Nathan held my other wrist to pull me back. 

“I’ve been looking for you everywhere. Where have you been?” Nathan inquired.

Anger flooded my system. “You must be out of your goddamn mind, Nathan. Your audacity is shocking! How dare you?! You think you have the right to pull me back when I’m with my man?”

“I’m sorry.” He apologized and though it was sincere, I didn’t care.

“This had better not repeat itself again.” I gritted, then turned to leave. “I need to use the restroom, babe.”

Alex who had been quietly watching the drama nodded. “Alright, babe.” He kissed my cheek.

And I knew it was to quell my anger. I gave him a smile, showing my appreciation. 

Glaring at Nathan, I left. 

But not before I heard Alex say to Nathan. “You lost your chance, man. Stay away from her. She’s mine now.”

My smile would not reduce. It just kept widening. I loved how protective Alex was of me and how much he was ready to let anyone know he loved me. 

That was the kind of man that deserved my loyalty and love, not Nathan. 

I was a good wife to Nathan, but I was going to be the best wife to Alex.

I entered one of the ladies and went about my business. 

Someone came in and when I raised my head to look, it was Alicia.

I smelled the trouble even before she opened her mouth but I was ready for her this time.

Stiffening my spine, I ignored her presence. 

“So you still want him?” She folded her arms and watched me under mean eyes. 

“You and your boyfriend are insignificant. I’ve got a better thing going on my life to pay attention to either of you.” My tone was cold and spiteful.

“You bitch!” She marched forward to stand before me and raised her hand to my face.

I caught it just in time. Flinging her arm away from my face, I landed an unexpected hit across her own face. “This isn’t five years ago, Alicia or whatever the hell your name is. Do not try to raise that hand of yours to my face ever again.” 

Stubbed, she held her cheek. “You dare to hit me?”

“Anymore form of violence from you and I’ll do more than hit you. I’ll beat you to the point of coma.” I ensured she heard the fury in my tone. “Do not try me, Alicia. And tell your man to stay away from me.”

“You whore! I’ll deal with you for this.” She cried vengefully. 

“Bring it on, Alicia, I’m not scared of you. But be rest assured that whatever you try against me, I’ll hit you back with it double.”

I made to leave the bathroom but stopped at the entrance. 

“And before you call someone a whore, look at yourself in the mirror. What name do you have for those who ruin people’s marriages?” 

Her lips curled In anger. 

Mine curled in a smirk. “Exactly, Alicia. You’re the whore.”

So say, I left the bathroom and went to find Alex and some flutes of champagne because, I swear to God, I was going to wring someone’s neck before the night was over.