Chapter 3
"Dinner?" James's voice rang with incredulity as he strode into the study. "With Emma Montgomery? The spoiled little princess who dared to kiss me at that society event?"
Senator Reynolds looked up from his desk, his expression softening as he regarded his son. He set down his pen and gestured for James to take a seat across from him.
"I know this situation seems sudden and unconventional," he said, his tone level and unhurried. "But I truly believe it could be an incredible opportunity for you, son. Especially after witnessing the obvious chemistry between you two."
James shook his head adamantly as he dropped into the chair, recalling the scorching, bruising kiss Emma had laid on him seemingly out of nowhere.
"Chemistry? She kissed me like that solely to get revenge on her cheating ex-boyfriend who showed up with his fling. It was a twisted game to humiliate the poor bastard, nothing more."
His father arched one skeptical brow. "Are you quite certain about that? Because from where I was standing, it looked like Miss Montgomery was finally allowing herself to act on the sparks that have been crackling between you two since you first locked eyes."
Heat crept up James's neck as he remembered their very first encounter - how taken he'd been by Emma's beauty before opening his stupid mouth and insulting her family's company. He couldn't deny the dizzying attraction he'd felt, at least until she revealed herself to be every inch the stuck-up rich girl the rumors portrayed.
"Regardless of what you think you saw, it meant nothing," he insisted, trying to regain his composure. "I have a fiancée whom I love dearly. Sarah and I have been together for years. I cannot simply discard those vows and promises."
The senator reached across and patted James's hand in a gentle, reassuring manner. There was an understated warmth in his eyes.
"I'm not asking you to forget about Sarah, James. I saw how radiantly happy you were with that young woman. If she's the one who truly owns your heart, then I would never stand in the way of that love."
James looked up sharply, searching his father's face for any hints of deception. Finding only sincerity, he felt some of the tension uncoiling within him.
"Then...why are you pushing me to pursue Emma Montgomery? I don't understand your reasoning, especially after that disastrous first meeting."
Senator Reynolds let out a soft sigh, leaning back in his chair.
"You know our family has struggled financially for some time now. Years of unwise investments and expansion too rapidly have taken a heavy toll. Despite my best efforts to rectify the situation, we stand on the verge of ruin, James."
He paused, seeming to weigh his next words carefully. "The Montgomery family has extended an offer, a proposal for you to marry Emma, their sole heir. In doing so, we would enter into a profitable business partnership that could solve all of our monetary troubles. Our legacies, our entire lineage would be preserved and secured."
James's brow furrowed as he processed this information. "You're asking me to marry for money and status? Just to prop up our family's wealth and reputation?"
"I'm asking you to consider it, yes," Senator Reynold replied evenly. "But not for money alone. More than anything, I want to ensure your future is stable and prosperous. That you can provide abundantly for any children you might have someday."
Rising from his chair, he moved around the desk and crouched beside James, gripping his son's hand firmly between his calloused palms. His eyes shone with a profound, paternal tenderness.
"You are my greatest pride, James. My life's singular accomplishment. I regret that my shortcomings as a businessman have put you in this difficult position. But I'm trying to make the best out of a complicated situation to secure your family's well-being for generations."
A lump rose in James's throat at the raw emotion in his father's words, at the remorse flickering across the weathered lines of his face. He covered his father's hands with his own, giving them a gentle squeeze.
"I appreciate you looking out for me, Dad. And for our family's future. But marriage, it's a sacred bond, you know that. I can't simply enter into that covenant lightly just for fiscal gain."
Senator Reynold nodded slowly, rising to his full height once more. "You're right, of course. It was unwise of me to issue any ultimatums about the matter. This is your life, your choice."
He rested a hand on James's shoulder, his eyes shining with unmistakable pride. "Whatever you decide, I'll stand behind you fully. If you wish to pursue your beloved Sarah and build a new family legacy together, then you have my complete blessing."
A profound sense of relief washed over James, thankful that his father could finally see reason. He stood as well, embracing the older man in a tight hug.
"Thank you, Dad. That means everything to me."
Senator Reynold returned the hug with equal fervor, clearing his throat gruffly against the swell of emotion.
"That said..." He pulled back, unable to hide the hopeful gleam in his eye. "If you did happen to give the Montgomery proposal a chance and attendance at dinner this evening...well, I certainly wouldn't object."
He gave James a roguish wink, his lips quirking into a sly smile. "And who knows? You might even find the young woman has hidden charms that could sway the heart of a confirmed bachelor like yourself."
James couldn't help but shake his head in wry amusement, his worries dissipating in the face of his father's disarming pluckiness. He was more relieved than ever that they could discuss this matter like two rational adults rather than resorting to angry edicts and defiance.
"I'll think about the dinner invitation," he conceded with a tolerant chuckle. "Though I make no promises where Emma Montgomery is concerned."
"That's my boy." Senator Reynold beamed, clapping him proudly on the back. "Just approach this with an open mind, eh? Whatever you decide, you'll have my full support."
As James watched his father exit the study with a jaunty whistle, he felt an enormous weight lift from his shoulders. His path ahead remained hazy and daunting, with no clear answers in sight. But at least now he could tread it with the loving guidance of the man who had raised him rather than under an authoritarian's stern edicts.
He was free to pursue his own heart in this matter, a liberating feeling, even if it brought with it a host of new quandaries. At least the decision was ultimately his to make, with no threats or ultimatums looming over his head.
With a heartfelt sigh of contentment, James turned towards the window, gazing out at the scenic Reynold grounds with their rambling gardens and ornate fountains. For the first time in ages, he felt an overwhelming sense of peace and clarity. Whatever the future held, he would face it steadfastly, with courage in his convictions.
But all of this could go within a twinkle of an eye if he followed the woman he loves, and his father could lose the next election. This wasn’t about him anymore….
CHAPTER 4A soft knock sounded at the door. Emma smoothed her hands down the elegant ivory wool coat she wore and took a deep, calming breath before answering. Here we go, she thought, feeling a mix of nerves and determination settling in her stomach.When she pulled open the door, James Reynolds stood on the other side, a stormy scowl etched onto his handsome features. His brown hair stuck up in messy tufts, his tie hung crookedly, and his suit looked rumpled like he'd thrown it on in a hurry against his will. Which, Emma reminded herself with an inward sigh, he likely had - especially after the explosive way they'd first met at that society event."You're late," she said evenly, keeping her voice polite and friendly despite his disheveled, sour-faced appearance. No need to let his foul mood rub off on her mood, not after the way he'd coldly dismissed her when she tried introducing herself weeks ago.James's glare deepened at her words, his thick brows pulling together as his eyes lo
Chapter 5The double oak doors burst open with a loud boom, startling James from the report on his desk. Sarah stormed into his private office, eyes blazing with fury, her chest heaving beneath her thin blouse."Sarah?" He stood up abruptly, shocked and remorseful. "What are you doing here?""Don't play dumb with me!" she spat, throwing a crumpled newspaper at his head.James jerked back just in time as the projectile sailed past, scattering papers. The bold headline screamed at him: DYNASTIES MERGE: REYNOLDS HEIR TO WED MONTGOMERY PRINCESS.Ice flooded his veins as he met Sarah's devastated glare. "How...how did you find out?""How did I find out?" She let out a biting laugh that cut him deeply. "You mean aside from the press release announcing to the world that my beloved fiancé is getting himself to another woman? The woman he swore to love and cherish until death?"Her laugh turned into a strangled, anguished sound as betraying tears spilled down her cheeks. "Damn you, James! Damn
Emma stood frozen before the full-length mirror, her reflection staring back at her with apprehensive eyes. She twisted the glittering diamond adorning her slender finger, watching the facets catch the soft light and cast brilliant refractions across the room. This ring, a dazzling symbol of promise and forever, should have filled her with elation. Yet turmoil swirled like a tempest within her.Was she truly ready to take this monumental step? To surrender her autonomy and bind herself eternally to a virtual stranger? Her palms grew clammy as doubt took root, blossoming like an insidious vine slowly strangling all the effusive hopes she'd once harbored for a love transcendent.Everything just happened like a dream, James doesn’t regard her as her wife, they are just forced into this marriage for financial gain, will she ever be happy in this sham marriage she said to herself as her thumb unconsciously traced her delicate necklace as fragments of a cherished memory drifted through her
The private dining room at the Reynolds estate was adorned with crisp white linens and gleaming silverware, setting the stage for a celebratory family dinner. Emma smoothed the folds of her emerald green dress nervously as she took her seat beside James."Doesn't my little girl look radiant this evening?" Her father Donald Montgomery winked at her before turning to James. "You're one lucky young man."James barely glanced up from his phone, nodding distractedly. "Yes, quite fortunate."Senator Reynolds cleared his throat loudly. "James! Put that damn phone away and join us properly. This dinner is meant to be a joyous occasion for God's sake."Sheepishly pocketing his phone, James offered a tight smile. "You're right, Father. My apologies...I'm just preoccupied with all the wedding preparations."His mother Brenda patted his hand consolingly. "Planning such a big event with all your other responsibilities must be overwhelming, dear. But tonight is about family, not flowers and guest l
Emma was sitting at her desk, trying and failing to focus on the financial reports in front of her.There was a knock at her office door. "Come in," she called out irritably.The door opened and Mark sauntered in, shutting it behind him with a self-assured click. "Hello, Emma."Emma felt her blood pressure spike instantly at the sight of him. She shot up from her chair, sending it clattering to the floor. How dare he come to her office!"You...what are you doing here?" she spat out through gritted teeth, fists clenched at her sides.Mark gave her that insufferable charming smile that used to make her knees weak. "Now, now. Is that any way to greet an old friend?""We were never friends!" Emma raged, storming around the desk until they were face to face, close enough for her to smell his spicy cologne. It was the same scent that used to linger on his shirts when she'd bury her face in them after making love. She ruthlessly shoved that traitorous thought aside, focusing on the white-ho
After Mark finally left her office, Emma felt utterly drained, both emotionally and physically. She sank back into her desk chair, burying her face in her hands as she tried to process everything that had just transpired. The confrontation had dredged up a whirlwind of emotions - anger, lingering desire, bitter humiliation - leaving her reeling.A soft knock at the door made her look up with a weary sigh. "Come in."Nelly, her trusted assistant, poked her head in hesitantly. "Ms. Montgomery? Are you alright? I couldn't help but overhear some of that...heated exchange."Emma waved her in with a mirthless chuckle. "It's fine, Nelly. You may as well know the whole sordid tale at this point." As Nelly settled into the chair across from her, Emma began recounting the entire history - her years-long relationship with Mark, the devastating discovery of his infidelity with her former friend Amanda, and his increasingly desperate, manipulative attempts to win her back ever since news broke of
James stood outside Sarah's apartment, the weight of his impending wedding pressing down on him like a leaden sky. He clenched his fists, his heart torn between duty and desire. With a shaky breath, he raised his hand and knocked softly on the door.The door swung open, revealing Sarah's tear-stained face. Her eyes widened in surprise at the sight of James standing there, a tumult of emotions flickering across her features."James, what are you doing here?" Sarah's voice trembled with a mixture of hope and apprehension, “I thought you were…”"I had to see you, Sarah," James replied, his voice thick with emotion. "I couldn't go through with this without telling you one last time that I love you and I mean it."Sarah's breath caught in her throat, her heart aching at the sincerity in James's words. She stepped aside, wordlessly inviting him into her apartment.They sat in silence for a moment, the air heavy with unspo
Emma stared at herself in the big mirror, wearing her beautiful white wedding dress. The fancy lace looked so pretty draping over her slim body, with the delicate beads sparkling in the soft light of the dressing room."Wow, Emma, you look stunning!" exclaimed her nanny, Ruth, eyes shining with pride. "Your mother would have been so proud to see you in this gorgeous dress."Emma's smile faded a little as she felt a pang of sadness thinking about her late mother. She blinked rapidly, trying not to let the tears fall. How she wished her mom could be here on her wedding day."I know, Nanny," Emma said, her voice catching with emotion. "I just wish she could be here with us today."Ruth stepped forward and gave Emma a warm, comforting hug, putting her arms around her."I miss her too, Miss Emma," Ruth murmured gently. "But I know she's watching over you from heaven, and she's so proud of the beautiful woman you've become."The tender
Emma laughed softly as she adjusted the collar of Mark’s suit, her fingers brushing against his chest. They stood in the office conference room, the sunlight streaming through the glass walls, casting a golden hue over them. Mark grinned at her, his eyes filled with warmth, as if they shared an inside joke no one else could understand. “Honestly, Mark,” Emma teased, stepping back to admire her handiwork, “if I didn’t step in to save you, you’d walk into this meeting looking like a wrinkled mess.” Mark chuckled, his voice low and smooth. “That’s why I keep you around, Emma. You’re not just the brains of this operation—you’re also the style police.” Their laughter echoed through the room, a stark contrast to the tension radiating from James, who stood just outside the conference room, watching them through the glass. His jaw clenched as he saw Emma place a hand on Mark’s arm, her touch lingering just a second too long. When the meeting concluded, Emma and Mark
James stood at the doorway of Emma’s office, the weight of his desperation etched into his features. He hesitated for a moment, watching her from afar. Emma sat at her desk, flipping through documents with practiced precision, her demeanor calm and collected.He cleared his throat, stepping inside. “Emma,” he began, his voice softer than usual, almost hesitant.She didn’t look up, keeping her eyes on the document in front of her. “If you’re here about work, leave it on the desk. If it’s personal, I’m not interested.”James sighed, stepping closer. “Emma, please. We need to talk.”At this, she glanced up, her eyes cold and unreadable. “About what, James? More excuses? More promises you won’t keep?”“No,” he said quickly, shaking his head. “I’m not here to make excuses. I just... I just want us to fix this.”Emma leaned back in her chair, cros
James stood in the kitchen, the faint aroma of rosemary and garlic filling the air. He wiped his hands on a towel, glancing nervously at the clock. Emma would be home soon. He had spent the entire day preparing her favorite meal—grilled salmon with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about the message he hoped to send.He wanted her to know he was trying. That he was sorry. That he couldn’t lose her.When the front door opened, James quickly straightened his shirt, running a hand through his hair. He plastered a smile on his face as Emma stepped into the living room, her heels clicking against the wooden floor.“Emma,” he greeted warmly. “You’re home.”She paused, her sharp gaze cutting through him. “I can see that, James. What is it this time?”He gestured toward the dining table, which was set with candles and her favorite white-and-gold china. &ldqu
Sarah leaned back against her couch, a glass of wine in her hand, the room dimly lit by the glow of her TV. Her mind was swirling with frustration and indignation over her earlier conversation with James. His dismissive attitude and hollow promises were beginning to wear on her, but she wasn’t about to let him win. She was determined to remind him that she wasn’t a woman to be ignored.A sharp knock at the door pulled her from her thoughts. She glanced at her phone, her brow furrowing. She wasn’t expecting anyone, and James certainly wouldn’t show up unannounced. Setting her glass down, she rose to her feet and walked to the door, peeking through the peephole.“Tyler?” she muttered under her breath, a mix of surprise and annoyance flashing across her face. What was he doing here?She opened the door, leaning against the frame with a raised brow. “What do you want?”Tyler stood there, his hands shoved into the pocket
James sat in his home office, the soft glow of his desk lamp illuminating the scattered papers before him. His mind was a whirlwind, consumed by Emma’s growing defiance and the precarious state of his plans. His phone vibrated for the fifth time in the last hour, the screen lighting up with Sarah’s name. He clenched his jaw, refusing to answer.A few moments later, another message popped up: "James, you can’t ignore me forever. Call me now, or I’ll handle this my way."He cursed under his breath, tossing his pen onto the desk. “Damn it, Sarah,” he muttered. The last thing he needed was for her to create more chaos in his already fragile situation. With a resigned sigh, he picked up the phone and dialed her number.The call connected almost instantly. “Finally!” Sarah’s voice was sharp, laced with frustration. “What the hell, James? You’ve been ignoring my calls and texts for days.”“I&r
Emma sat in the plush armchair by the window, a glass of wine cradled in her hand as she stared out at the city skyline. The Montgomery estate was eerily quiet, save for the faint hum of traffic in the distance. She had spent the day drowning herself in paperwork, trying to ignore the growing tension between her and James. Tonight, she resolved, she would give herself peace.A soft knock on the door disrupted her thoughts. She didn’t bother turning. “Come in,” she said, her tone devoid of warmth.James entered hesitantly, his usual confidence replaced with a vulnerability she hadn’t seen before. He closed the door behind him and took a deep breath.“Emma,” he began softly, his voice almost pleading.She didn’t respond immediately, swirling the wine in her glass. “If this is another attempt to lecture me, James, I suggest you save your breath.”He moved closer, his hands shoved into his pockets as if tryin
Emma sat in her sleek office, her pen tapping rhythmically against the surface of her desk. The glow of her laptop illuminated her face as she reviewed the latest financial reports. A knock on the door interrupted her focus."Come in," she said without looking up, her tone clipped.James stormed in, his face a mixture of frustration and urgency. He didn’t wait for an invitation to sit down. Instead, he slammed the door shut and stood in front of her desk."Emma," he began, his voice sharp, "I just got off the phone with Senator Donald’s campaign team. They’re saying the funds promised to them have been rescinded. Care to explain?"Emma looked up, her expression calm, almost indifferent. "I withdrew the funds."James blinked, stunned. "You what?""I withdrew the funds," she repeated, leaning back in her chair. Her voice was steady, but there was a glint of defiance in her eyes. "That agreement was my father’s, not mine. I see no r
The phone on James’s desk buzzed with a ferocity that matched his frayed nerves. He glanced at the screen, knowing full well who it was. Senator Donald.He let it ring twice before picking up. “Dad,” he said, his voice a mix of frustration and resignation.“Don’t you ‘Dad’ me,” Senator Donald’s voice boomed through the speaker. “What the hell is going on over there? Do you have any idea the position you’re putting this family in?”James pinched the bridge of his nose. “I’m handling it.”“Handling it?” Donald’s tone dripped with disbelief. “Handling it? From where I’m sitting, it looks like you’re letting everything spiral out of control. A divorce, James? Do you understand what that word even means for people like us?”James sighed, leaning back in his chair. “I’m not letting anything happen. Emma’s the one who’s making this impossible. She—”Donald cut him off. “I don’t care what Emma’s doing. Your job is to keep her in line. That’s why we agreed to this arrangement in the first place
James slumped into the leather chair in Sarah’s dimly lit apartment, the scent of her lavender candles mingling with the faint aroma of her perfume. He loosened his tie, his face a mix of frustration and exhaustion.Sarah appeared in the doorway, wearing a silk robe that barely reached her knees. She held a glass of red wine in one hand, her expression amused. “Well, well, look who decided to show up,” she teased, setting the wine glass down on the coffee table.“Don’t start,” James muttered, rubbing his temples.Sarah tilted her head, her dark curls cascading over her shoulder. “Someone’s in a mood. What’s wrong? Did wifey give you the cold shoulder again?”James shot her a glare. “This isn’t a joke, Sarah. My life is falling apart.”She raised an eyebrow and settled onto the couch beside him, tucking her legs under her. “Alright, Mr. Doom and Gloom, spill it. What’s got you so worked up?”He sighed deeply, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees. “Emma’s pushing for a divorce. S