Andrew swiftly signed the contract, reassuring Astrid with a gentle smile. Together, they proceeded with the wedding, their tension easing.
As Mrs. Thompson exited, her wary glance swept the room, anticipating Mira's potential disruption. To prevent chaos, she had doubled the wedding security, ensuring extra precautions. Astrid marveled at her transformation, twirling elegantly in her stunning wedding gown. She took a moment to capture memories, posing for photos before joining her father at the ceremony. As they entered, Andrew's gaze locked onto Astrid, captivated by her dazzling smile. Every aspect of her entranced him – her poise, beauty and innocence. At the altar, their eyes met, and Astrid's cheeks flushed softly, still grasping the surreal reality of marrying Andrew. The vow exchange commenced, with the adorable ring bearer presenting the rings. Andrew revealed black wedding bands, his eyes sparkling with surprise. Astrid's eyes widened, intrigued. Just then, George and his mother including Mira burst in, their sudden arrival shattering the serenity. George wore a tailored suit, while Amira donned the exquisite wedding dress Mrs. Thompson had purchased for Mira. The audience gasped collectively. George stormed to the altar, his movements forceful. He forcibly removed the ring from Astrid's finger and discarded it, his actions sparking shock. "The Thompsons are greedy," George declared, his voice ringing through the silence. "Astrid and I are engaged. Andrew, already betrothed to Mira, seduced my fiancée, got her pregnant and now attempts to steal my bride!" The congregation erupted into shocked whispers, their murmurs filling the air. Mrs. Thompson's health faltered under the intense stress. Andrew rushed to her side, concern etched on his face. George grasped Astrid's hand firmly, his grip unyielding. Andrew and Astrid tried to intervene, but George restrained her, his eyes blazing with determination. George Walton's words hung in the air: "We all know the Thompsons don't accept illegitimate children, but today that changes." His eyes locked onto the priest as he produced a ring. "Get us married now!!" Astrid's struggles intensified as George's grip tightened. The congregation exchanged bewildered glances. Uncertainty gripped the priest's face. A gun appeared, pressed against the priest's head. Time seemed to freeze. Pandemonium erupted as screams filled the air. The reporters rushed to the altar to record the scene because this will surely make the headlines and promote them. Five heavily armed men in black suits emerged from the shadows, sealing off escape routes. Guests cowered beneath chairs, terrified. George's father, Mr Smith, let out a calculated laugh. "Your stupidity is astounding, George. And to think, you're not even my legitimate son." Sir Galton rose, his clapping echoing sarcastically. "Stealing another man's bride, what a bold move." Sir Galton commented. "Are you talking to Andrew?"George asked his voice trembling and Sir Galton's smirk widened. "Andrew's free to choose whoever he fancies and you're to take your eyes away from who he fancies. You must accept it. Let her go." A gun pressed against George's head, forcing his surrender. He released Astrid, his eyes never leaving hers. The doctor rushed to revive Mrs. Thompson. As she stirred, her gaze fell upon reporters capturing the chaos. Despite her frail health, she summoned the strength to order security to escort them out. Sir Galton bent down, retrieving the ring Judge had discarded. Her eyes locked onto Andrew's as she handed it to him. "Proceed with the wedding," she instructed. Andrew's fingers closed around the ring, his gaze briefly meeting Sir Galton's. A subtle wink passed between them. George was forcibly removed from the altar, Mira by his side. They were relegated to the front row, their wedding attire now a cruel irony. Fear gripped the congregation. Astrid's thoughts swirled. Andrew's motivations were starkly clear: he sought to legitimize his child, not love her. Her heart sank. As the ceremony resumed, Astrid's doubts intensified. What secrets lay hidden beneath Andrew's polished facade? His connection to Sir Galton and the men in black suits hinted at darkness. She scanned Andrew's hands, searching for tattoos or scars, but found none. Yet, Sir Galton's influence and the men's deference suggested otherwise. Was Andrew a skilled fighter, hiding his true nature? Mrs. Thompson's serene expression betrayed no concern, as if she held secrets. Astrid's apprehension deepened. With trembling voice, Astrid exchanged vows. The words felt hollow. As they sealed their union with a kiss, applause erupted. A standing ovation. Whispers spread: "Congratulations to our boss!" Astrid's mind reeled. "Boss?" "Mafia boss?" Her forced smile concealed her terror. Astrid slumped, exhausted. Today, her wedding day, had unraveled into chaos. Fear lingered, suffocating her. Their bedroom, once a sanctuary, now felt oppressive. Decorations seemed mocking, and teddy bears sat awkwardly beside the bed. Drawers overflowed with toys, a stark reminder of joy she couldn't feel. Andrew's smile only heightened her frustration. "Who are you?" Astrid asked, her voice barely above a whisper. The question hung in the air, heavy with emotion. Andrew's smile faltered, anticipating this moment. Revealing his truth seemed impossible. Andrew began undressing, preparing for a shower. Astrid's irritation grew. "You're ignoring me, hiding something. Explain today's drama," she pressed, desperation creeping into her voice. "Tell me who you really are, what you're hiding, and what's going on." Andrew's thoughts swirled. Sir Galton's words echoed: "Join the mafia gang, your father's legacy." His father's untimely death had thrust him into the spotlight. Automatically, they wanted him to rule next. But how could he reveal this to Astrid? Andrew approached Astrid, trying to kiss her attempting intimacy. But she pushed him away, annoyed. "You're doing this again," she said, referencing the unresolved issue of Kimberly's pictures. "Explain yourself. We're married now; we must communicate." Andrew withdrew, silence speaking volumes. Astrid rose, her eyes brimming with tears. "You're shutting me out." She walked away, seeking solace in the guest room. Andrew seethed, frustration boiling over. Their honeymoon dreams now seemed tainted. He thought of their honeymoon plans, now overshadowed by tension. Fear for his safety and Astrid's well-being gripped him. He decided to end the games, but uncertainty lingered. Would Astrid ever understand him?Andrew and Astrid's morning began in strained silence at the dining table. The absence of even a perfunctory greeting hung heavy in the air. Andrew's envisioned married life, once filled with promise, now seemed irreparably fractured.After breakfast, Andrew made his way to Sir Galton's club, his emotions simmering. The elder's unwelcome presence at his wedding still rankled. "What brings you here?" Sir Galton inquired, his tone tinged with amusement."You attended my wedding uninvited," Andrew replied, his voice laced with irritation. "You weren't even on the guest list."Sir Gallton chuckled, seemingly unperturbed. "As your surrogate father, I hardly require an invitation. Your father's passing left a void, and I've taken it upon myself to guide you."Andrew's anger flared, his words dripping with venom. "You're not my father. His loyalty to your organization cost him his life. That's sufficient reason to despise you."Sir Galton's smile faltered, his expression turning somber. "Let
Andrew's eyes searched Astrid's face, confusion etched on his own. Why had she pulled away? He rubbed his forehead, feeling the weight of his heart. Astrid's tears flowed freely, her body shaking uncontrollably. Andrew's arms enveloped her, offering comfort. "It's okay," he whispered softly, his voice trembling with empathy.Astrid's voice trembled, "I'm sorry I failed you." The hospital room doors creaked open, and the head of marketing hesitated before entering. "Sir, I...I'm sorry to interrupt." Andrew nodded, and the man continued, "An anonymous user uploaded a video of Miss Astrid online. It's...going viral." Astrid's gaze lifted, horror flickering across her face.The video played, showing her being forced to take abortion pills. The comments section scrolled by, a blur of vicious accusations and photoshopped images. Astrid's fingers clenched Andrew's shirt, her nails digging deep. "We've seen enough," he said softly, dismissing the marketing head. Astrid's whisper was barely au
Andrew's eyes blazed with fury as he towered over Sir Galton's desk. "Don't play dumb!" he spat. "I know you're behind this. The video, the threats... Astrid's safety is at stake."Sir Galton's expression transformed from surprise to calculating calm. "Andrew, you're jumping to conclusions," he said smoothly.Andrew's voice dropped to a menacing growl. "I'll uncover the truth. You're going down, Sir Galton."Sir Galton snorted, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. "You're so predictable, Andrew. You'll do anything to protect your precious Astrid."Andrew's fists clenched. "What do you know about her?"Sir Galton leaned back, steepling his fingers. "More than you think. She's... complicated. And you're just a pawn in her game."Andrew's grip on Sir Galton's neck relaxed slightly, allowing him to gasp for air. Sir Galton's face remained crimson, his eyes bulging."You're... playing... with fire, Andrew," Sir Galton choked out, his voice laced with malice. "I'm not afraid because if
Astrid walked into her room and found her elder sister in bed with her fiancé. She was furious. "Astrid, I can explain," her sister said, but Astrid didn't want to hear it. She shut the door and stormed out.She stood in the hallway for a while unable to move,she had been betrayed by her blood sister and her fiance,she decided that they weren't worth crying for. Rather she must have her revenge.At the banquet, Astrid found her elder sister's fiancé, Mr. Thompson. "Mr. Thompson, there's something that's very urgent and it needs your attention " she said. "Follow me."They slipped away from the party, and when they were alone, Astrid said, "It's in your room." Mr. Thompson swiped his card, and they entered the room. Astrid kissed him, but he pulled away, confused.Mr. Thompson's expression changed."What's the meaning of this?" Mr Thompson asked in a stern tone."Mira cheated on you with my fiance George,so we need to get our revenge." "What would I get if you get your revenge?" he as
Astrid took her luggage and went inside the car. She decided to drive far away from there, as far as she could. She wanted to leave everything behind - start a new life, get a job, work hard to make a living, and live a good life somewhere else. Astrid started driving when suddenly she was cornered by four black cars. She wondered what was happening, what she had done, who she had offended, but she couldn't think of anyone. Suddenly, a man in a black suit opened the door and took her out of the car and put her in his car. Astrid's voice was nowhere to be heard; she couldn't even scream. She just stayed still.Unknown to her, Andrew had sent someone to keep an eye on her from the minute she left the hotel and report everything that happened to him. The man in black suits drove forward; it felt like eternity. Astrid was woken up by a light tap on her shoulder. When she got down, she was shocked by their destination. The destination she expected was a warehouse where she'd be beat
"Is this really necessary?" Astrid asked."Yes, it is. You are his jewels and..." Claudia started to say."I will need to correct that part. I am not his. I belong to no one but myself. Understand?" Astrid interrupted."Yes, miss. I'm sorry," Claudia apologized."Better. Are you hungry?" Claudia asked."I'll eat later. I want to shower," Astrid replied. "Let me go and get the water ready myself."" I can do it myself.""Mister Thompson won't forgive me if I let you do anything," Claudia said. "That is your business with him. I want to bathe, and I can prepare the water for myself."Claudia stepped in, blocking the road to the stair, and bowing her head politely. "Miss, I can't let you do it."Suddenly, the door opened, and Andrew stepped in. "It's good that you have met Claudia, and you are already getting along," Andrew said. Astrid's face became fierce, and she refused to say anything."Claudia, how is she treating you, Mister Thompson?" Andrew asked."She wouldn't let me prepare t
"There is no use crying over spilled milk," she consoled herself as she went to take her bath."What is going on here?" she asked Claudia, shocked."Since Mister Thompson is going to spend the night here, then I rearranged the room, and I was instructed that you are meant to take a beauty bath every evening before you go to bed," Claudia said with a smile."You are disturbing and stressing yourself for no reason. He has gone back to where he came from," Claudia gasped. "Did you make Mister Thompson angry? You have to appease him when he comes next, or else you will be dead," Claudia said, scared.Astrid was shocked about how scared Claudia was and how Claudia feared the cycle so much. "Why are you afraid?" Astrid asked.Claudia replied, "Nothing, miss.""Not wanting to leak out information for the sake of her life," Astrid thought."Talk to me and drop this formal behavior," Astrid said."I was instructed to say nothing regarding my past," Claudia said.Astrid sighed because of that,
"I apologized already ,but there was nothing for me to post about for almost two months. There was nothing good happening in my life. I started losing followers, and it was really bad. Plus, that post made me gain the attention of the Brooks family. They love me now " "They don't love you; they're using you to get juicy gossip because that's what you're good at," Astrid said, offending Ashley with the last part"Excuse me?" Ashley said, feeling annoyed with the last sentence. I'm sorry, please just drive," Astrid apologized, even though she knew she had told the truth. She didn't want to be kicked out of the car because she was stranded."Fine, where am I going to go? Corporate society? Why do you want to go there?" Ashley asked."I'm going for an interview," Astrid replied."What?" Ashley exclaimed with a smile. "Astrid wished she hadn't told her that. It explains why you're dressed like this. The young daughter of the Waltons needs a job," Ashley said with mocking laughter."Wait,
Andrew's eyes blazed with fury as he towered over Sir Galton's desk. "Don't play dumb!" he spat. "I know you're behind this. The video, the threats... Astrid's safety is at stake."Sir Galton's expression transformed from surprise to calculating calm. "Andrew, you're jumping to conclusions," he said smoothly.Andrew's voice dropped to a menacing growl. "I'll uncover the truth. You're going down, Sir Galton."Sir Galton snorted, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. "You're so predictable, Andrew. You'll do anything to protect your precious Astrid."Andrew's fists clenched. "What do you know about her?"Sir Galton leaned back, steepling his fingers. "More than you think. She's... complicated. And you're just a pawn in her game."Andrew's grip on Sir Galton's neck relaxed slightly, allowing him to gasp for air. Sir Galton's face remained crimson, his eyes bulging."You're... playing... with fire, Andrew," Sir Galton choked out, his voice laced with malice. "I'm not afraid because if
Andrew's eyes searched Astrid's face, confusion etched on his own. Why had she pulled away? He rubbed his forehead, feeling the weight of his heart. Astrid's tears flowed freely, her body shaking uncontrollably. Andrew's arms enveloped her, offering comfort. "It's okay," he whispered softly, his voice trembling with empathy.Astrid's voice trembled, "I'm sorry I failed you." The hospital room doors creaked open, and the head of marketing hesitated before entering. "Sir, I...I'm sorry to interrupt." Andrew nodded, and the man continued, "An anonymous user uploaded a video of Miss Astrid online. It's...going viral." Astrid's gaze lifted, horror flickering across her face.The video played, showing her being forced to take abortion pills. The comments section scrolled by, a blur of vicious accusations and photoshopped images. Astrid's fingers clenched Andrew's shirt, her nails digging deep. "We've seen enough," he said softly, dismissing the marketing head. Astrid's whisper was barely au
Andrew and Astrid's morning began in strained silence at the dining table. The absence of even a perfunctory greeting hung heavy in the air. Andrew's envisioned married life, once filled with promise, now seemed irreparably fractured.After breakfast, Andrew made his way to Sir Galton's club, his emotions simmering. The elder's unwelcome presence at his wedding still rankled. "What brings you here?" Sir Galton inquired, his tone tinged with amusement."You attended my wedding uninvited," Andrew replied, his voice laced with irritation. "You weren't even on the guest list."Sir Gallton chuckled, seemingly unperturbed. "As your surrogate father, I hardly require an invitation. Your father's passing left a void, and I've taken it upon myself to guide you."Andrew's anger flared, his words dripping with venom. "You're not my father. His loyalty to your organization cost him his life. That's sufficient reason to despise you."Sir Galton's smile faltered, his expression turning somber. "Let
Andrew swiftly signed the contract, reassuring Astrid with a gentle smile. Together, they proceeded with the wedding, their tension easing.As Mrs. Thompson exited, her wary glance swept the room, anticipating Mira's potential disruption. To prevent chaos, she had doubled the wedding security, ensuring extra precautions.Astrid marveled at her transformation, twirling elegantly in her stunning wedding gown. She took a moment to capture memories, posing for photos before joining her father at the ceremony.As they entered, Andrew's gaze locked onto Astrid, captivated by her dazzling smile. Every aspect of her entranced him – her poise, beauty and innocence.At the altar, their eyes met, and Astrid's cheeks flushed softly, still grasping the surreal reality of marrying Andrew.The vow exchange commenced, with the adorable ring bearer presenting the rings. Andrew revealed black wedding bands, his eyes sparkling with surprise. Astrid's eyes widened, intrigued.Just then, George and his mo
"You are only permitted to assist your husband at work," Mrs Thompson said, her voice firm but controlled. "I didn't work; I only assisted my husband with work. When he died, I took over the family business and trained Andrew."Astrid's eyes narrowed. "Well, I'm not married yet, so I'm free to work."Mrs Thompson's expression turned stern, her eyes flashing with disapproval. "You're not going to any place called work. You're getting married next week, yet you don't know the basics."A pause hung in the air, heavy with tension."Do you plan to disgrace us on that day?" Mrs Thompson continued, her voice dripping with disdain. "That day is a big day for the Thompsons and the Waltons."Ashley felt a surge of defiance. "I know how to behave," she said, her voice steady.Mrs Thompson's gaze lingered on Astrid, as if searching for weakness. "I've assigned someone to teach you how to behave."The air seemed to thicken, the silence oppressive."I know how to walk properly in heels or my weddin
Mira's mind was racing. The thought of losing everything she'd ever dreamed of, becoming a laughingstock, and facing public ridicule was driving her to the brink of madness. "What did I do wrong?" she asked herself, frustration etched on her face.She couldn't bear to go online, where posts mocked her and her followers ridiculed her. Even her friends had turned against her. The engagement to Andrew, once the epitome of her success, was now crumbling. The embarrassing online tantrums, the tagged pictures – all for nothing.A bitter laugh escaped her lips as she thought about the cruel irony. Her sister, Astrid, was marrying Andrew next week, while Mira's own engagement was being called off this week.Desperate for answers, Mira dialed George's number. But he ended the call abruptly. She tried again, only to be met with the same dismissive response."What's going on?" Mira wondered, annoyance growing within her. George had always prioritized her calls and texts, responding promptly. Thi
She knocked on Mira's room.And Mira opened it.Mrs Thompson was shocked that Mira was already dressed for work.She was also happy to see Mira's devotion to her father's company, just like Andrew.A sense of pride swelled within her.She was sure Mira would make a good CEO."I want to talk to you briefly," Mrs Thompson said calmly.Her voice was measured."Oh, good morning, ma'am. Please come in and have a seat."The words hung in the air.When Mrs Thompson was seated, she invited Mira to sit beside her.Mira sat down.Her eyes locked onto Mrs Thompson's.Sensing what Mrs Thompson was about to say.Mrs Thompson's calm demeanor was unlike her usual self."I want to talk to you about something," Mrs Thompson began.Her words trailed off."I just hope you'll take it calmly, okay?"The silence stretched out."I'm listening," Mira replied.Her voice was steady.Mrs Thompson picked up Mira's hand and held it in hers."Look, I know this isn't what you wanted to hear," she said gently.Her e
Mira was happy regarding the news of George's wedding to Astrid. She knew within herself that she would finally get Andrew, and nothing would be in her way. Suddenly, she remembered the pregnancy - Astrid was still pregnant. How could she forget something so crucial, something so important like that? She really needed to find a way to cleanse Astrid of such impurities, she thought.She drove home feeling happy - although she had urgent work to continue. That didn't stop her, because she would be so powerful soon, and no one would dare mess with her. As expected, she was thoroughly searched before she was. She stepped out of the car and handed the keys to the doorman, instructing him to park it for her. As she gathered her belongings, her mind wandered to the events that had transpired earlier. The news of George's wedding to Astrid still lingered, fueling her determination.After being thoroughly searched, she entered the building, her heels clicking against the marble floor. The w
George barged in without knocking shocking Andrew and Astrid,he walked in and held Astrid's hand attempting to drag her away from Andrews' grip but Andrew's grip was stronger. George continued dragging not minding if it was hurting her or not, his goal was to take Astrid back to The Smiths mansion "Let her go" George said when he discovered that he wasn't winning at all Astrid gripped unto Andrews' neck for support as she was being pulled by George. Andrew stood up releasing Astrid because he understood it was hurtful."Why are you here" Andrew asked "I'm here to take what belongs to me""There's no ring on a finger that says she is yours and there's no tag on her which says she belongs to you."Andrew!!" Astrid screamed in tears as George squeezed her hand too tight."Let her go!" Andrew replied." This is none of your business. I'm tired of letting you use who belongs to me and you wants to get married to her while I wasn't even a single chance to do anything,do you know how that