Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 50: Montenegro neé Gillies.“You must be Williams’s fiancée.”Ariana looks up from her phone and finds a handsome, small-statured man watching her from behind the leather recliner. Hana is no longer drying her hair and is searching around hair pins instead, which she’ll insert underneath her locks for the time being.Ariana tries searching her mental database of profiles for the familiar face and upon failing, weakly smiles. “And you must be an important somebody that I can’t recognize.”“Ariana, meet James Alvarez.” Lance pipes up from his place in the back, where he’s checking off a clipboard in his sweater and jeans. According to traditions Ariana’s never heard of, the bride needs several hours of preparation from her friends and since they don’t have a friend list, the team deems theirselves as the best next thing. Hell, her makeup took two hours along, and she’s still waiting for her wedding suit fashionista and Sarah to quit fiddling wi
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 51:.Ariana glances at her new husband grabbing her hand and helping her down the altar. Their wedding bands clink with every step they descend. Williams grins broadly by the time they make it to the yard and says it’s time to party.The reception is held in a large barn that has been renovated into a charming banquet hall solely for the wedding. Barrett had explained his concept earlier, but Ariana only had a vague idea of how glamorous the arrangement could get.They start the reception after an hour-long photoshoot around the chapel and churchyard. Tired and feet throbbing in her uncomfortably stiff shoes, Ariana cuts the photography short and asks the guests to proceed to the hall instead of waiting any longer.The guests are seated with appetizers before their arrival which is dramatically announced alongside the entourage that follows in tow. Their large table is set just beside the currently unoccupied dance floor.Walter says a few wo
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 52: post wedding season .The most Ariana can recap from her wedding night is the verge of passing out in front of the audience. Whatever energy she had left dwindled after dancing multiple rounds with Williams, Abel, and a few of her newly acquired relatives, including James—much to her husband’s displeasure. She even performed a choreography with Jared that they designed off a popular song the band played. Numerous people had cheered them on as they effortlessly glided their feet across the dance floor, and the feeling of it all was exasperatingly overwhelming.In other words, it’s a wild night, but in an unexpected way.Ariana hadn’t heard of the rock band until Barrett introduced them to her during one of their luncheons. And judging from their high demand, she’s both amazed and grateful that her wedding planner was able to book them for the reception, because they seem like sweet people.So sweet, that the main vocalist even takes the ti
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 53: brutal atmosphere .Willing winces before snorting at her panicked reaction. “Relax, will you? It’s not gonna bite.”“Pull something like that on me again and we’ll see who will.”This only amuses Williams more, as he throws his head back in cheeky laughter, endless snickers ringing through Ariana’s ears and further embarrassing her.Bewildered more than frightened, Ariana tries easing the pain by sliding off, only to be held down by both Williams’s embrace and the lapels of her blazer that are now trapped underneath their posture. She attempts yanking backwards and kicking her feet up so she’d topple over, but the velcro grip between their tight dress pants prevent her from moving freely.Her constant grinding brings attention upon Williams’s aching groin as she unmistakably grounds herself against it, bottom lip caught in her teeth, faltering once Williams retaliates.“You’re making it worse, fuck,” he moans, hands smoothing forward to
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 54: phenomenal .Ariana watches Williams through narrowed eyes, observing the crease between his knitted eyebrows as he pries the laces apart. She has a vague idea of why Williams’s mood is set so low, but doesn’t confirm until one of them snap—in this case, the latter.It’s his special day too, Ari. Give him a break.Yet that’s the thing. They both want to spend their wedding night in a way neither of them can permit, each with their own reasons why. It’s funny how they’ve been easily sharing a bed for the past few nights, only to feel burdened with expectations after officially tying the knot. All these standards are merely increasing the temptation they’re struggling to overcome.“Liam,” Ariana says quietly, reaching out to grasp his hand. “You don’t have to do this. I don’t want to make you uncomfortable.”Williams warily glances up at her. “I’m—I’ll be fine.”“By the way, I’m not trying to turn you on or whatever. In case you think I am.
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 55: alert alert .Williams has drawn closer now, eyes locked in a long, heated stare. He swings a thumb over Ariana’s chin to her gaping lips, rubbing across the silky smoothness which grows softer with each touch.“You’re brilliant.” That's all it takes for him to crash and burn, removing his thumb and capturing Ariana’s plush mouth into his.And she finally, finally thaws on the spot right then and there, because there’s no other choice but to succumb. Even if she’s a meteor bound to collision as Williams said, in no way will that tear her away from him—from something that feels so goddamned good to submit to.She frantically tugs at Williams’s suit, and the younger peels back a little to shrug it off, one hand gripping her wrist, as if he fears her escape.As if. Show me everything you’ve got. I’m not going anywhere.“Ariana.” Williams rasps, arms slipping round her waist as he drops kisses down the shell of her ear to her shoulder blade. T
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 56: disgustingly cute .The thick fog of tension has lifted by now. Warren’s little smile has grown to a grin. “Then maybe Quincy too and then Anton should join Ariana in vocals.”“And Williams?”“Uh, he can be the director? All he has to do is sit there, look serious, and boss us all around. Kinda like how he is in general. Ooh, wait—make him a loaded sponsor who falls for the beautiful backup singer.”Well, at least the kid’s a little happier.“Williams would definitely pull off the dictator role.” Ariana drawls. “It’s in his blood.”“It’s not called acting if you’ve been in character since birth.” Abel chuckles.“And since Abel won’t be the drummer, he’d be one of those socialites who always flirt around with the dancers,” Ariana adds, playfully nudging the model.“Watch him drool over a hot, hazel-eyed blond or something,” Warren chimes in.“Really now? Does this hot, hazel-eyed blond happen to be named Lance as well?”Abel, upon hearing
Married For A Million Dollars.Chapter 57: the dream .“Just please hurry up.” Williams falters, voice laced in desperation more than impatience. “I’m gonna pass out soon and I can’t sleep without you.”“Yeah, yeah. Hang up so I can get everything done and come back as soon as possible. Okay, baby?”“Okay, baby.”The whole petname deal may have been random, but it didn’t sound awkward, either. It’s ironic since Ariana was originally so vehement against the idea of falling into such gestures.She slides her phone into her back pocket and pauses by the kitchen, alarmed by the sound of the television playing. It must be the housekeeper Williams keeps around monthly. They haven’t been introduced yet, so Ariana pops in to say hello.The housekeeper turns out to be a woman named Dasom who’s older than her by a few years. They make small talk—Ariana explaining Walter’s condition, and Dasom reassuring that the food will be taken care of while she showers and fetches extra clothes.Dasom han
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 84: all good things come to an end . In the morning, Ariana found herself seated in the back of her chauffeur-driven car, heading toward her father-in-law's residence. The weight of guilt hung heavily on her, and she had made up her mind to come clean, to reveal the truth about her and Williams's marriage, and their evolving love, despite the contract that had initially bound them.Upon her arrival, the bodyguards directed her to the expansive garden within the Montenegro residence. As she stepped into the lush, well-manicured garden, her heart raced with anticipation. The beauty of the surroundings was starkly contrasted by the heavy burden of truth she was about to reveal.In the garden, Ariana's eyes fell upon two figures who had been waiting for her—Kingston and Walter. The bodyguards made her presence known, and both men turned to look at her. Ariana could feel the intensity of Kingston's gaze, a smirk playing on his lips. It was a kn
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 83: truth is surfacing. In the dining room of the Montenegro mansion, a grand family dinner was in progress. The room was adorned with exquisite chandeliers, fine china, and polished woodwork, exuding an air of sophistication and prestige.Seated around the long, ornate table were the members of the Montenegro family. Walter, the patriarch and head of the family, occupied the prominent position at the head of the table. Antonio, Quincy, and Warren, the siblings, were seated beside him, and Ariana at the ending presumably on Williams’s designated chair. As the meal progressed and the family enjoyed a sumptuous dinner, Antonio decided to share some significant news with the rest of the family. With a sense of resolution, he cleared his throat, gaining the attention of his family members. The atmosphere in the room suddenly shifted, all eyes turning to him.Antonio spoke, "I wanted to let you all know that I've cut all ties with Maguire Pari
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 82: behind the scenes . The luxurious office of Sean Ericsson was bathed in soft, ambient light as he dialed Nigel's number. Nigel, one of the individuals involved in the charity organization, had caused quite a stir during a previous meeting when he attempted to disgrace Ariana, Williams's wife. Sean was determined to prevent a similar incident from happening again.Nigel answered the call, and Sean got straight to the point. "Nigel, I wanted to talk to you about the upcoming charity board meeting. Ariana is coming back, and I don't want a repeat of what happened last time. I won't tolerate any attempts to discredit her."Nigel, while trying to sound accommodating, acknowledged Sean's concern. "Of course, Sean. I understand. We'll ensure that the meeting proceeds smoothly."As the call ended, Nigel immediately turned to his cousin, Kingston, who was sitting nearby. Kingston had his own grievances with Ariana, stemming from the belief that
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 81: Ariana Montenegro . The Montenegro family house was a true testament to opulence and grandeur. Its lavish interior exuded wealth and elegance, from the magnificent chandeliers that adorned the ceilings to the intricate artwork that graced the walls. Ariana had stepped into a world where luxury was a way of life, a stark contrast to her own humble beginnings.In the heart of this extravagant setting, she found Warren, the talented musician of the family, testing his skills on the grand piano in the spacious sitting room. The rich, melodious notes filled the room, and the expression of concentration on his face showed that he took his music seriously.As Ariana announced her presence, Warren paused his performance and turned to greet her. He wore a warm, welcoming smile and, with genuine affection, embraced her in a heartfelt hug. His embrace radiated the bond that had developed between them since her marriage to Williams.Warren's affectio
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 80: show of who’s bigger? . Ariana, sitting in the upscale store for the wealthy, glanced at the message on her phone from her stylist, Hana. The message revealed that Hana had relocated with her boyfriend to another state. Ariana couldn't help but smile at the news. She knew how long Hana had been dreaming of this change. With a sense of happiness for her friend's new journey, Ariana replied with a congratulatory message, expressing her best wishes for the exciting change ahead.Turning her attention back to the present, Ariana looked at her friend Jared, who was about to embark on a long-awaited date. She held Jared's 6-year-old son, Alexander, in her arms, a role that made her chuckle at the complexity of their shopping expedition.Jared appeared visibly frustrated as he browsed through the clothing racks, continuously dropping clothes with an exasperated expression. Alexander, sensing his father's irritation, went to hug him, seeking t
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 79: back to the beginnings . Ariana entered the familiar surroundings of Roswell Diner, the clinking of dishes and the murmur of patrons filling the air. She had come to meet her former boss, Sal, a man who had played a significant role in her life. As they settled in his private office for a candid conversation, Ariana couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude.With a heartfelt smile, she began, "Sal, I can't thank you enough for everything you've done for me. You've been there when I needed it the most, and I want to show my appreciation."Sal, a warm and fatherly figure in her life, was taken aback but replied, "Ariana, you don't owe me anything. I was happy to help."Ariana was persistent, a hint of emotion in her voice as she insisted, "No, Sal, I really want to write you a cheque. You've been there for me since my days as a waitress here, and I've come so far thanks to your support."Sal paused, his eyes filled with genuine aff
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 78: the perfect plan . Ariana embarked on a solitary journey through the city's bustling streets in the comfort of her chauffeur-driven car. The city at night was a breathtaking spectacle of wealth and power. Tall, modern skyscrapers stood like giants, their shimmering lights forming constellations in the urban sky, testaments to the opulence that defined this metropolis.As the car glided through the city's vibrant arteries, Ariana's thoughts meandered through a labyrinth of emotions. Loneliness weighed heavily on her heart, its presence magnified by the extravagant life she led. Williams Montenegro, her billionaire husband, had left the country on a business venture three days ago. His departure had left a void in her life that no amount of luxury or privilege could fill. Despite the grand parties, glittering galas, and lavish gatherings she attended, they seemed nothing more than a facade, unable to dispel the desolation that had take
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 77: fair amount . The skin on her husband’s back is smooth and taut, hinting at the exceptional physical condition of his body. And what a condition. He has somehow managed to make Ariana, a average height woman with a fair amount of muscles around, feel small. Ariana dwells on that perception. She likes it. She fucking loves it.Is she horny? Ariana resist the urge to slap herself out of this thirsting bubble she’s been sucked in. It’s William’s fault for sure. She’s here trying to keep her anger up but being married to such an attractive creature has Ariana fighting her own demons instead of her husband.Although her own body doesn’t agree, she is truly sulking over the energy that Williams lacks to ask her what's wrong. It bothers her. Call her spoiled, but Williams should be panicking if Ariana ever frowns. So, she walks in her nightshirt towards the other sitting on the kitchen island. She can see Williams cutting the dry meat and mu
Married For A Million Dollars .Chapter 75:.A gentle silence lingers in the tranquillity of the elegantly embellished lounge room. The luxurious space feels isolated and vast, with high ceilings decorated with minimalistic chandeliers summoning a weak, golden light upon the elegant interior. The vast space’s sleek, modern design meshes seamlessly with the kitchen and bar next to it, resulting in a harmonious blend of modern setting with a bolder elegance. The neutral tones of the walls serve as a canvas for the vibrant colours of the furniture. A plush, velvet modular sofa of a deep hue occupies the centre of the room. The coffee table, made from a piece of polished marble, rests gracefully on top of a patterned rug.The place is decked out with fine art pieces sorted around the room. She, who is now a dot in the room, has chosen most of them. Ariana lets out a yawn. The fabric of her husband's oversized t-shirt drapes loosely around her shoulders. She takes a look at the clock