Chapter Four

Amelia stood by Ethan's side, the epitome of elegance and grace in a stunning evening gown. The party was in full swing at their lavish mansion, filled with influential guests from high society.

The opulent ballroom of their lavish mansion was transformed into a scene of indulgence and extravagance. The chandeliers glistened above, casting a soft glow over the elegantly dressed guests, while the sound of laughter and clinking glasses filled the air.

Ethan, dressed impeccably in a tailored suit, moved through the crowd with an air of entitlement, his eyes constantly scanning for his next conquest. Amelia, by his side in a stunning gown, forced a smile, masking the deep sense of unease that had settled within her.

As the evening progressed, Ethan's behavior became increasingly brazen. He openly flirts with other women, making suggestive comments and engaging in intimate dances, all while Amelia stood by, a mere observer of his debauchery.

Amelia's heart sank as she watched Ethan charm and entertain his guests, his attention completely consumed by his desires. She felt trapped, suffocated by the expectations he imposed on her. Since their wedding, as days turned into weeks, she was starting to regret her hasty decision.

Amidst the revelry, Ethan approached Amelia, his eyes gleaming with arrogance and entitlement. "Darling, do fetch our guests some more champagne. They seem to be quite thirsty," he said, his voice dripping with condescension.

Amelia's facade wavered, her voice laced with frustration. "Ethan, I've been attending to the guests all evening. Can't we hire staff to handle these tasks? It's exhausting and demeaning to be treated as a mere servant."

Ethan's laughter echoed through the room, devoid of any empathy. "Oh, Amelia, you must understand. These social events are about appearances. Having my beautiful wife attend to the guests adds to the image of our impeccable hosting skills. Now, do as I've asked."

Amelia's eyes flashed with anger and desperation. "I'm not just an accessory, Ethan. I have thoughts, desires, and dreams of my own. I won't be treated as a prop in your charade."

Ethan's expression hardened, his voice laced with cold indifference, he whispered into her ear,  "You signed the contract, Amelia. You knew what you were getting into. Don't pretend to be naive now. Your purpose is to fulfill my desires and maintain appearances. Nothing more."

Tears welled up in Amelia's eyes, "I won't continue to be your puppet, Ethan. This marriage was meant to be a partnership, a support system for each other. But all I've experienced is your disregard for my feelings and autonomy."

Ethan's gaze turned icy, his grip on Amelia's arm tightening. "You will do as I say, Amelia. I own you, and you will play your part, whether you like it or not. Remember, your mother's life depends on it."

Amelia's voice trembled, a mixture of fear and determination seeping through. "No, Ethan. My mother's life depends on her medical treatment, not on this twisted arrangement. I will no longer be silenced or controlled by you. I deserve better."

With a sudden surge of strength, Amelia wrenched her arm free from Ethan's grasp. She turned away from him, her eyes filled with defiance and sadness. 

As Amelia walked away from Ethan, her steps carrying both defiance and vulnerability, Raymond, Ethan's cousin, watched her with a heavy heart. He had witnessed the sadness in her eyes on numerous occasions, and each time, it pained him to see her trapped in such a toxic situation.

Unable to stand idly by any longer, Raymond approached Amelia, his voice filled with concern. "Amelia, may I have a moment?" he asked gently, his eyes reflecting his genuine empathy.

Amelia turned to face Raymond, her tear-streaked face betraying her emotions. "Raymond," she whispered, her voice filled with a mix of relief and weariness. "I didn't expect to see you here."

Raymond reached out, offering a comforting embrace. "I've been watching, Amelia. I've seen the sadness in your eyes, the way you carry the weight of this marriage on your shoulders. You deserve so much more than what Ethan has to offer."

Amelia's grip tightened as she clung to Raymond, seeking solace and support. "I tried, Raymond. I truly did. But it's suffocating to live a life where my feelings and dreams are ignored. I can't bear it any longer."

Raymond pulled back slightly, his gaze gentle yet determined. "You don't have to bear it, Amelia. Some people care about you and want to see you happy and free. You deserve a life where your voice is heard, where your happiness matters."

Raymond smiled, his support unwavering. "I'll be here for you every step of the way, Amelia. You're not alone in this. We'll find a way to navigate through this difficult journey together."

As Raymond and Amelia engaged in their heartfelt conversation, their voices hushed but filled with determination, they were momentarily unaware of Ethan's approach. However, their conversation was abruptly interrupted as Ethan hurriedly walked over, a sense of urgency etched on his face.

"Amelia," Ethan interjected abruptly, his voice laced with an unsettling intensity. "I've been looking for you. There's something I need you to do." "

"What do you think you're doing, talking to him?" Ethan seethed, his eyes fixed on Raymond.

Amelia, startled by Ethan's sudden appearance, took a step back, her voice calm but assertive. "Ethan, I was having a conversation with Raymond. There's nothing wrong with that. We were just talking."

Ethan's features tightened, his possessiveness escalating. "I don't want you talking to him, and I have told you this several times. You belong to me, and I won't tolerate you getting close to anyone else, especially my Raymond."

Raymond, sensing the tension in the air, stood his ground, his voice measured. "Ethan, it's important to respect Amelia's autonomy. She has the right to interact and form connections with whomever she chooses. Love shouldn't be based on control and possessiveness."

Ethan's face reddened with anger, his voice growing louder. "You stay out of this, Raymond. This is between Amelia and me. She needs to understand her place."

Amelia's eyes flashed with defiance, her voice unwavering. "No, Ethan. I won't be controlled by you any longer. I deserve respect, trust, and the freedom to have meaningful relationships. Your jealousy and possessiveness are toxic, and I won't tolerate it."

Ethan clenched his fists, his face contorted with rage. "You will do as I say, Amelia. I won't let you defy me."

Raymond stepped protectively in front of Amelia, his voice steady. "Ethan, it's clear that your behavior is driven by control, not love. Amelia deserves to be with someone who trusts and supports her, allowing her to grow as an individual. You need to understand that your actions are harming her and our relationship."

Without acknowledging Raymond's words or even sparing him a glance, Ethan tightened his grip on Amelia's arm and forcefully pulled her away from the conversation.

Amelia winced at the pain in her arm, but Ethan remained oblivious to her discomfort. His possessiveness and controlling nature took precedence over any concerns for her well-being or the impact of his actions on those around them.

Raymond watched helplessly as Ethan whisked Amelia away, as her beauty lingered in his eyes.