WICKED SEDUCTION CHAPTER 34

The skyline was dotted with towering buildings, many constructed within the previous ten years or less. The city was seeing unprecedented growth in employment, which has received a great deal of attention. Several distinct cultures have left their imprints on education and the personality of the city as a whole. What was once a city of little variety has evolved into a fusion of everything.

The sense of belonging to a heterogeneous society has made its imprint. One may choose from hundreds of clubs, theme restaurants, and diners. Those looking for something different could go sightseeing, touring the city, doing aerobics, or visiting one of the numerous other recreational places.

“My parents can be talkative sometimes,” he suddenly said while he turned left in the next corner.

“Your parents? Wait, are you saying that we are going to dine with them?”

“Yes. We are heading towards one of your restaurants,” he said.

I slapped his arm to question his motive, but he just ignored it. Then he said, “Look, we are getting married soon, so it’s only right to introduce you to them.”

The man was right. Getting to know his parents were inevitable, and what’s worse, I felt so uncomfortable while we discussed our upcoming wedding. It was about to happen in a few weeks, and day after day, I couldn’t do anything to change their mind. The thought of forfeiting my life has occurred to me, but it would be not warm-hearted to the life that’s sprouting inside my womb. I couldn’t do that to my baby, no, never!

When we arrived at our destination, I admired the uniqueness of the place. From the exterior, it seemed to be a lovely, simple, and rustic structure. Although it’s impossible to see through the big, curtained windows, the vibrant voices from the inside could be heard at the parking lot. As we went through the thick wooden door of the restaurant, we were greeted with the scent of booze and the sound of happy music. I glared at Robert for bringing me into a pub with men and liquors. The bartender was preoccupied with other clients, but he managed to greet us with a wave nevertheless.

On the inside, it’s just as fascinating as it is on the exterior. Rounded, wooden beams supported the top-level and the torches that were linked to it. Various pieces of memorabilia cluttered the walls. However, it was unclear whether they had been gathered or have been given as gifts.

The place itself was jam-packed with people. Workers seemed to be the majority of the customers here, which contributed to some exciting nights. It appeared that many long tables were filled by what appeared to be separate groups of people who had become friends over excellent food and discussion. Even the smaller tables were taken by individuals who were presumably beginning to feel the effects of too much alcohol, yet no one appeared to notice or object. Even the majority of the bar chairs were taken. However, no one seemed to worry if there were a few more people. Although, judging by the warmth and enthusiasm that emanates from the bar, it was most likely the environment that has made this restaurant renowned throughout time.

“My parents are probably upstairs,” he said and held my hand as we made our way to the stair leading to the second floor of the place.

I tried to get away from his firm hold, but my effort was futile. I didn’t have to feel nervous about meeting his parents since there was a slim chance they would humiliate me. After all, they also agreed to our arranged marriage. “You don’t have to hold me now,” I protested when he kept on holding unto me.

“Your hands are warm,” he said, and I rolled my eyes in response.

Luckily, the assorted smell from the clients made me forget about Robert’s horrible smell, and when he pushed the door open, I could close my eyes and let it happen. His parents looked more awful than Robert, and I blinked several times to ensure I didn’t imagine things.

“Say hi to my mom,” Robert said.

“H-hello, Mr & Mrs. Dixon,” I formally greeted them, and they seemed displeased about it. Robert’s mother didn’t say a single word after that, and I could say it was the most boring dinner I have ever attended with. It was more tedious than eating alone!

After dinner, Robert surprised me when he said he couldn’t take me home because he missed his parents, and instead, he called a cab to take me home. While in the cab, I believed he did it on purpose to annoy me or to insult me. What a shame because he has to matter to me before he can hurt me. It’s basic!

In the morning, I was surprised to see my father at home. Aunt Jenny has also returned from her vacation, and aside from them, there were other people in the house. I didn’t recognize some of them.

“Who are they?” I asked my father when I joined him for breakfast.

“Make-up artists,” he replied and paused to drink his coffee. “Eat your breakfast now so we can start the preparation,” he added.

“Preparation for what?”

“Your wedding,” he announced, and my mouth gaped open at his announcement.