Chapter 2

Chapter 2

“I'm coming to the office within half an hour. Keep the files ready that I am supposed to inspect.” She informed the assistant and started combing her wild curls looking at the mirror which refused to surrender to the comb.

The mark of his fingers on her cheek was strong. Just why does he hate her so much? The anger in her for him was unsurpassed. She covered the marks with a concealer and stepped out of the indo-mexican superstructure which was called the abode of the fearsome anthropoid.

The figures were not encouraging. But she was trying to arrange the investors for the firm. “You shouldn't have done what you did to me yesterday, dad. I hate you. You took my life in your control. Who gave you the rights to perform my marriage against my wish? That man is no better than a beast. He is heartless with some unsolved grudge over me.” She bashed to her father and started looking at their firm’s old files. Sophia was under the doubt if they had ever rubbed their noses with her monster husband. But alas, no such evidence. Near or far they did not have any connection with the Waratah vineyards. Then why?

“I'm sorry Honey. You have been trying hard. But there has been no solution so far obtained. I hid it from you because I did not want you to panic about our firm. But, a week ago our company’s lawyer informed me that we are about to lose the case. The court has given us enough time to arrange funds but we couldn't and did not clear the bank dues. If we do not show our solvency by the next hearing the bank gets the right to seal our firm. In such a case my decades long hardwork will go to dogs. You will have no inheritance from me. I did not want to see you struggle more than what you have already done. It was at that time, I got an offer from Waratah vineyards. They offered to buy the shares and help us with solvency. In return the CEO of the company had only one request, he wants to marry you.”

Lawrence took a step forward and held the hand of Sophia. “It seems Saul saw you in their company’s annual charity ball and he was instantly smitten by your smartness. Saul’s business associate and his friend told me about this. When a fast-paced company like Waratah vineyards approached me requesting ties, how can I reject the offer?” Lawrence spoke excitedly.

“It's all bullshit. He seems to have decades old revenge on me about which I have no idea. And by the way it's only a contract marriage.” Sophia added to her father with derision.

“Don't look at everything the negative way, honey. Maybe he has his own reservations. You will slowly come to know about them.” Lawrence pacified Sophia.

****

The humanity observed in pin drop silence as his polished black shoes kissed the ground which fell directly from the Rolls Royce boat tail. Following him was the press. “Why did he attract such a huge attention? It is not like he is an Angel who fell from the sky.” Sophia said to herself when Saul’s car was parked before the head office of Holiday Wines.

“Sir, we have the information that you have newly acquired the possession of Holiday Wines. Is this a part of your smart business. You are synchronically taking sinking companies under your wings and spreading your business all around the world.” One of the media persons asked. 

“Saul Campbell is one of our shareholders. He did not acquire our company. And last but not the least, we are not a sinking company.” Sophia clarified to the paparazzi with uncontrolled irk. 

“Yes, Sophia is right. I don’t simply go to acquire companies, I study their potential and help the needy. Charity is sometimes a pleasurable option. Moreover Sophia is my wife now. Why won't a husband help his wife to sail in her business.” Saul added with complacence.

“The man knows to turn every situation in his favor.” Dori, the assistant of Sophia, whispered in her ear.

A series of curses ran behind the lips of Sophia. The gossip started within the workers of Holiday Wines and the media. Clarifying everybody's confusion Saul added, “I'm a private man and I don't like publicity about my family affairs. Sophia and I had a registered marriage with just our closest family members to witness our holy union. Very soon my wife and I will be addressing a press meet and clear your questions outside my family. Thanks for all the support.” He dismissed the gathering, pulled Sophia to him and walked inside the office.

“Don't make that face as if you are seeing me for the first time. I don't want any gossip circulating in the public about me. And if you fail to cooperate, you are smart to know what happens.” He whispered in her ear under a charade of soft and romantic smiles.

“These numbers are not the least promising.” He studied a few files and remarked with arrogance.

“Well, I hope you were completely in your conscience when you took over the company. Didn't you study the accounts?” Sophia asked, going imperious.

A smug smile adorned his lips. “I don't study the profit and loss account and do the balance sheet when it comes to my family. You have been my beloved for years whom I wished to win.” 

Lawrence was very delighted, after feeling the warmth in the words of  Saul. “Of course.” He added in gaiety.

“So my dear wifey,” he held her chin in a snobbish simper. “From tomorrow onwards you will be joining me in my business. If you work closely with me you will know how to uplift your company.” Sophia knew there was something very odious working in him. She did not want to accept his offer.

“If I come with you, who will look after Holiday Wines? Dad can’t handle everything. He recently suffered a heart stroke.” She relented.

“It's only for a few months, Honey. I know you're smart and you would soon follow the tricks of turning our business successful. Until then I will handle the company. Be assured.” Lawrence offered before Saul replied.

“See, the deal is done.” Saul winked at her with a cocky grin.

Little did she know what was going on in his brain. Now that she will be working with him, she will have no peace even at work.