It’s unbelievable how time flies when you have too much to do. We went with Ms. Vandervalk for the cake testing and to go over the menu and guest list one more time. James insisted we have a look at the bridal suite and Ms. Vandervalk was happy as a clam to leave us to it. She went to speak to the chefs to finalize some requirements and there we were, the two of us alone in the bridal suite.“So? What do you think?” He faced me with a lazy smile. “Bed big enough?”“Umm… It has a nice view.” I did everything in my power not to look into those blue eyes. I walked to the window and leaned out. It really had a spectacular view of the garden and the winding stream in the distance.“Not bad, not bad at all.” He chuckled, and I groaned. Of course, he was staring at my butt. I pulled back quickly and hit my head on the windowpane.“Ow!” I rubbed the top of my head and James quickly stepped in.“Let me see.” He grabbed the back of my neck to inspect my head. “No blood. Let me kiss it better.”
Friday night, my last night as a free woman. Was it fear or excitement that had my heart beating like a drum? Maybe a bit of both. Ronan came early to fetch James. Before they left James cornered me in the passage, kissing me wildly in front of Ronan.“You be a good girl now, Sugar. Save some energy for tomorrow night.” He said, slapping my butt and when I caught Ronan’s eye, he smirked at me. My face was on fire.“The girls are on their way, Destiny. I hope you are ready for them.” Ronan winked at me over his shoulder before James dragged him out of the house.“Stop flirting with my girl, Ronan you man-whore.” James growled at him.“Pot calling the kettle black, mate?” I heard Ronan chuckle before the door slammed behind them.I went to my bedroom to get ready for the night. Not really knowing what I was getting myself into. I decided on the red dress James had gotten me a few days before. It hugged my curves like a second skin and was short, coming down to mid-thigh. But I left the
“James what the hell are you doing?” I hissed at him through my clenched teeth. Max stood by watching, as James twerked his ass in front of my face. The audience loved it, they were going wild. I was ready for the earth to swallow me whole.“Giving you a lap dance, Sugar.” He blew me a kiss. He was drunk off his ass, he smelled like a damn distillery.I saw Ronan at the back, and I indicated with my head for him to come and take his drunk friend away. He was laughing his fool head off.“Seems like the bachelors party has gatecrashed your bachelorette, my angel.” The Cher impersonator tut-tutted at my back.“Yeah, no shit. Get off me, James.” I shoved at James who was now straddling me, and he was heavy. “God, you reek!”“Let’s blow this place, Sugar. I want to take you home, take off all your clothes and…”“Whoa there cowboy!” Max intervened and pulled him off me. The next thing James swung at the unsuspecting man, landing a blow to his cheek.Three extremely burly men, bouncers, of c
JAMES“Goddammit!” I ran up after Destiny. “Don’t run from me, Destiny.” I lost my balance on the second step and banged my injured nose on the edge. “Aww fucking hell!” I’m going to look like I’d been in a fucking barfight tomorrow on my goddamn fake wedding day. My nose bled like a slaughtered animal. Feeling dizzy, I sat back down, putting my head back against the cold wall and pinched the bridge of my nose. It was definitely broken.“Destiny, I need your help, Sugar.” I breathed through my open mouth. No answer. I guess if I were on fire, she wouldn’t even piss on me to put it out.“Fuck off and die!” I heard her call out from behind the closed door.Yeah, I guess I deserved that. Ronan and his big fucking mouth. Oh, right, I’m the problem. I blabbed. I was feeling more lightheaded. No surprise there, I was still drunk and couple that with the blood loss. Well… I passed out.***“James, oh, God, James.” I heard a voice calling me. “Please don’t die. I’m sorry, so sorry. I didn’t m
DESTINYI couldn’t believe my eyes! There in the kitchen doorway was my father and Lord Barrington. The room spun and I fell into James’ arms.“Destiny!” I heard James’ voice from far away. He patted my face, and I shoved his hand away. They made me sit on a barstool in the kitchen. Mrs. Donahue shoved a glass of water against my lips.“Daddy?” I wasn’t dreaming, he was there. He was really there.“I saw your photo in the papers. Wouldn’t want to miss your wedding, my girl.” He looked older, unshaved and unkempt. Was that alcohol I smelled on his breath?“You never called.” Were the only words I managed to say. Then I bawled.“Destiny…” James went down on his knees next to me, taking my hands in his.“I’m so sorry, we didn’t mean to upset you, Destiny. Your father contacted me last night. I thought you would want him to be part of the wedding.” Lord Barrington said.Looking at them now I wondered if I still wanted it. He never called me, left me wondering all this time if he was still
You could hear a pin drop in the chapel. Every head in the pews turned around to stare at the woman who interrupted the wedding. I held onto James’ arm to steady myself. His eyes were blazing at Jenna.“That is a blatant lie!” he yelled at her. He looked at me. “No, Destiny, you have to believe me. It’s not possible.”My father came towards us the same time Lord Barrington sprang out of the pew and stormed at Jenna. He grabbed her slender arm.“What the hell are you doing, Jenna?” Lord Barrington hissed at her. “You know it can’t be James’.”“Really?” Jenna laughed derisively.“Can we just postpone the proceedings until we have this unfortunate business sorted out.” The minister held up his hand to calm everyone down. “Lord Barrington, please bring your procession to my office.”“James?” I wanted to cry but bit my lip hard.He squeezed my hand. “Don’t worry, we’ll sort it out.”Ms. Vandervalk, with a firm smile plastered to her face, ushered the guests out to the reception area while
JAMESTwo hours later and a hell of lot of explaining, I was a married man to a beautiful, albeit angry little Sugar Dumpling. Yeah, I know, I was a real bastard. But I couldn’t afford to let her slip through my fingers. If she wanted to believe that I loved her, I would bend over backwards to make her believe me. Truth was, I was fond of her. Did I love her? Who knows. Love sucks anyway.Father sent Jenna away with the limo. Where to I don’t give a fuck. She could go to hell as far as I’m concerned. I just hope the man doesn’t go through with his promise to marry that scheming bitch.“You’re awfully quiet.” Destiny said while I held her on the dance floor to a soft rock song.I stroked her back absentmindedly. “Just enjoying having you in my arms, Sugar.” I spoke next to her ear. “Looking forward to our honeymoon suite.”“You can have the couch.” she said, smiling sweetly up at me while cameras flashed in our direction.“C’mon, Sugar. You can’t be serious. It’s our wedding night.” I
DESTINY“I’m sorry, Sugar. I wanted it to be a surprise.”I gaped at James. “I… I thought you were busy at work.” I didn’t know what else to say. Alone with James in a romantic setting. How was I going to resist him?“I’ll never be too busy to spoil my gorgeous wife.” James winked at me, his lips curling into his wicked smile.“Oh, but…”Lord Barrington interrupted; “If you’re worried about your father, my dear, don’t be. I’ve arranged the garden cottage on the estate for Mr. Johnson to move into. We need a groundskeeper, and he has graciously accepted.”I met my father’s gaze, and he had a distant smile on his face. “You go enjoy yourself, my girl. I’ll be alright.”Will he? I didn’t know if I wanted him so close to the Barrington’s. The less they knew about my family, the better.James’ lips against my cheek brought my thoughts back to my predicament.“I’m going to spoil you for all men, Sugar. That’s a promise.” He nipped my earlobe playfully and there was nothing I could do about
DESTINY"I have something for you," James smirked, his blue eyes twinkling mischievously as he held his hands behind his back. The scent of his cologne, a subtle blend of musk and sandalwood, filled the air around us."What is it?" I asked, my curiosity piqued as I leaned in closer, my heart fluttering in anticipation."The traditional gift for a one-year anniversary is paper, isn't it?" he replied, a playful glint in his eyes.“I didn’t figure you for a traditional type of bloke, Mr. Barrington,” I teased affectionately.Victor watched us from his cot, his bright blue eyes sparkling with interest. He chewed happily on his tiny fist and gurgled contentedly.I hadn't gotten him a card, as was the tradition. Instead, Cassidy had helped me choose a digital photo book, its sleek design fitting perfectly in my hands. Our precious memories filled the pages - from our engagement and wedding photos to Victor's first photo shoot. The glossy photographs captured our love and happiness, a tangibl
JAMESThe Christmas holidays felt never-ending, dragging on with a sense of timelessness. Instead of having a relaxing time with only the two of us, our home had become a bustling hive of activity.The sound of laughter and chatter filled the air as Lorraine, Cassidy, and Jenny barged into the house, their arms laden with packages filled to the brim with baby goods. My mates, Chris, Steven, and Joel, followed closely behind. The only one missing was Ronan, and his absence weighed heavily on me. I missed my best friend, but I hadn't yet found it in my heart to forgive him, despite Destiny's constant urging.“Surprise! You didn't think we'd forget to give you a proper baby shower, did you?" Lorraine exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement and warmth.Destiny embraced them all, her face glowing with joy. "You guys! This is unexpected," she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine surprise.I couldn't agree more with Destiny. The sight of her happiness warmed my heart. She needed this
DESTINYIt has been going great with us. Everything seemed to be working out just fine. James was back at work and the company’s reputation restored to its former good standing, like a phoenix rising from the ashes.James described how the air was filled with excitement as business boomed and new opportunities bloomed. Now that the guilty parties have been brought to justice, their shadows dissipating like smoke, and Lord Barrington's name cleared of all charges, the relationship between father and son has blossomed. It felt like a weight had been lifted, and I couldn't help but feel eternally grateful for this newfound harmony.Days flowed into each other and before we knew it, it was the Christmas holidays. We were expected to go to the Barrington mansion on Christmas Day.My parents have moved to Wales, where Daddy found a well-paying job in the mines. Hopefully, Aurora would focus her energy on raising Arthur and being a faithful wife to Daddy, their home now a sanctuary of love a
JAMESI woke up in a vast field of vibrant wildflowers, their delicate petals brushing against my skin as a gentle breeze whispered through the air. Initially, confusion washed over me, for I was certain I should have been somewhere else. Yet, lying there among the blossoms, gazing up at the expanse of the cerulean sky, a sense of pure bliss enveloped me. I wanted to stay there forever. It felt like heaven.Suddenly, a familiar voice called out my name, breaking the tranquility of the moment. "Mother?" I sprang up, searching the surroundings with bewilderment. It had to be a dream, it couldn't be real. But then, there she was, appearing exactly as I remembered her.Overwhelmed with joy, I tried to run towards her, but my movements felt as if I were tramping through heavy sand. The harder I tried, the more I struggled against an invisible force. "James," she called out, her voice filled with concern. "Stop. You must go back.""No, Mother, I don't want to go back. I want to be with you,
At Lord Barrington's insistence, I agreed to accompany him to a hotel just a block away from the hospital. As the owner, he had the manager prepare the grand presidential suite for our stay.Stepping into the suite, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the grandeur. They spared no expense, from the crystal chandelier in the center of the living room to the oriental rugs adorning the floor. Three luxurious bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom, left me in awe. Without Lord Barrington by my side, I would have felt utterly out of place in the opulent suite.Lord Barrington said kindly, “At least now you can take a warm shower and have a good night’s rest.”He left me in the bedroom I chose at random, thinking how strange it was spending the night with my father-in-law alone in a hotel. The gossip tabloids would definitely have a lot to speculate about if they got wind of it. I chuckled mirthlessly to myself. What a ridiculous thing to be worried about under the circumstances. My bl
Was I dreaming? The world around me felt surreal, like a hazy fog had descended upon reality. The air was thick with a mix of anticipation and dread. Just a few hours ago, we were filled with joy, discussing baby names and envisioning the perfect nursery. The nightmare of Jenna's death seemed like it was finally coming to conclusion, and we could move on from all of it. Everything was supposed to be fine. But then, in a split second, it all came crashing down.Curious onlookers buzzed about, their whispers and murmurs blending in a cacophony of noise. Security officers stood tall, forming a barrier between the crowd and the chaotic scene unfolding before them. Tears streamed down my face uncontrollably, blending with the sticky warmth that seeped through my trembling fingers as I clung desperately to James."James, don't leave me," I pleaded through sobs, my voice choked with anguish. I gently caressed his deathly pale face, hoping beyond hope that my touch could somehow anchor him to
DESTINYIt was late evening when we made our way back home. The violet sky overcast with gray clouds hanging low signaled the promise of snow. Winter has finally arrived.Lord Barrington seemed reluctant to let us leave, finding many excuses to keep us there. The aroma of a delicious lunch drifted through the air, enticing us to stay. As the hours passed, lunch turned into dinner, filling the grand dining room with the clinking of cutlery and the soft murmur of conversation. Afterwards, the staff brought us steaming cups of tea, accompanied by the sweet aroma of freshly baked biscuits. I couldn’t resist. It was as if Lord Barrington didn't want to be left alone in that massive, eerie mansion. And honestly, I couldn't blame him. The place felt haunted, even if I didn't believe in such things.At least there was some semblance of harmony between James and his father. They engaged in polite conversation, discussing minor matters instead of arguing. It was a significant improvement, and
JAMESHaving heard nothing from my father, we drove to the hospital, anyway. Destiny insisted we stop at a fast-food restaurant on the way to get my dad something to eat. The aroma of sizzling burgers and salty fries wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of freshly brewed coffee.“I don’t care if it’s not healthy, James. He needs comfort food. Just this once.” She was determined to get him what she considered being comfort food. I just shook my head. I’ve never seen my dad eat a hamburger and fries. Ever. But there was no arguing with a pregnant woman. The lack of peanut butter or strawberry ice cream in the house had already agitated her. I had to promise her solemnly to get it for her.We found him in the waiting room where we left him. He looked as if he hadn’t slept at all, his tired eyes reflecting the fluorescent lights overhead. The uncomfortable chairs creaked as we sat down next to him. Outside the waiting area, the hospital staff carried on with their task. The low
DESTINYI listened to what Lord Barrington said. He was convinced that his actions caused his father's stroke.“Grandfather always had a bad temper.” James remarked. He had regained his composure after his emotional outburst. I thought it was endearing to see him so vulnerable. He hardly ever showed that side of him.“I know, but I just couldn’t keep quiet any longer. Not after what he confessed to.” Lord Barrington rubbed his temples as if he had a headache.Looking closely at Lord Barrington, I noticed a red welt on one side of his face. “What happened to your face?” I blurted out.He subconsciously stroked over the red mark. “He struck me with his walking stick,” he said, grimacing. “Right before he fell.”Curiosity piqued, I asked, “What did you argue about?”He let out a deep sigh. “It doesn’t matter now.”“Really?” James raised an eyebrow at his father, his voice filled with skepticism. “Was it about the inheritance?”“Among other things. You should go home. I can see Destiny is