Chapter 1: Arranged
So there I was, sitting cross-legged on the squishy carpet, totally lost in a swirl of memories. The photo frame was like this little time machine in my hands, taking me back to that incredible day which was four years ago. The whole room had this warm, cozy vibe.
A dreamy smile played on my lips as I stared at the picture –our wedding. In the photo, My Husband, Ryan and I stood side by side, and let me tell you, we looked straight out of some fairy tale. His suit was all sharp and classy, and those eyes of his? Total mysteries that I couldn’t help but get lost in.
My fingers danced along the edges of the frame, Memories came rushing in like a tidal wave. Our wedding day? It was like the universe had thrown the biggest party ever. Laughter, love, and good vibes – you name it, we had it.
The air was practically electric with excitement, like the atmosphere itself was celebrating right along with us. Business Partners, Famous personalities, Friends, and family filled the scene, all smiles and happiness, their joy becoming the backdrop to our own.
The venue itself was like stepping into this magical wonderland –flowers everywhere, fairy lights twinkling like stars, and the atmosphere buzzing with excitement.
It was like all the good vibes had gathered there just for us, and our favorite people were right in the middle of it, celebrating alongside us.
I traced our smiles in the photo, remembering how our eyes locked right before we said our vows. It was like the whole world had paused.
And then, there it was – the moment that makes me blush even today. The air was charged with this mix of nervousness and excitement, and I could practically feel my heart racing in my chest.
Ryan reached out, his fingers brushing against the delicate fabric of my veil. There was this look in his eyes, this kind of intensity that sent shivers down my spine. And without a word, he slowly lifted the veil, his touch feather-light against my skin.
I held my breath, my cheeks turning this shade of pink I’d never seen before. Our eyes locked, and I could see this spark in his gaze, his lips met mine in this sweet collision that sent my heart into overdrive.
His lips were soft and warm, molding perfectly against mine as if they were meant to be there. It was a slow, sweet kiss – the kind that makes your heart skip a beat and time itself seem to pause. Our breaths danced in sync, a mingling of excitement and nervousness.
His arms wrapped around me, pulling me close as if I was this fragile thing he was holding. I could practically feel the beat of his heart matching mine, and his lips? They were like a secret I’d been waiting forever to uncover, soft and warm against mine.
All eyes were on us, and the cheers and hoots from our friends were like the soundtrack to this epic moment.
But then, the doorbell chimed, yanking me back to reality, I gently put the photo frame down and walked to the front door, the butterflies in my stomach going wild. And guess what? It was him!
Ryan Ashford, my amazing husband, with that half-smile that could make my heart do the cha-cha.
I didn’t even hesitate – just jumped right into his arms. It was like a hug that shouted, “You’re finally here!”His laughter was like this soothing melody, and his fingers played with my hair, making me feel all warm and fuzzy.
“Hey,” he said, his voice all soft and comforting, like a cozy blanket. I pulled back a little, grinning up at him, feeling like I was floating on some cloud of happiness.
“You Home early?”I said, that mix of surprise and happiness dripping from my words. Ryan’s grin got wider, and he had this twinkle in his eyes that was just... ugh, I can’t even. “Couldn’t wait to see my beautiful wife,” he said, all smooth and adorable.
We both laughed, the sound filling the air like this perfect melody. I stepped aside, letting him in.
We settled on the couch, The maid came over, holding a glass of cold water, a routine that Ryan had after a long day at the office. He took it from her, his Adam’s apple bobbing as he downed the water in one smooth gulp. It was like some kind of art, the way he drank, and honestly, it just made him even more attractive.
Ryan was like every romantic daydream rolled into one. Seriously, he’s that kind of guy you see in those dreamy movies – a total heartthrob with this easy charm that’s hard to resist. His dad’s company? Yeah, he worked in it and turned it into an empire like it was a piece of cake. Making him come under the Top- the 5 CEOS of the world at the age of 26. And respect? it’s practically his middle name. He’s respectful to everyone.
But you know what’s even crazier? His love. It’s like this magical melody that’s always playing in the background. I guess I was the lucky one, or maybe planned for him already, it was an arranged marriage. His looks – he’s like a real-life Greek god, all handsome and perfect, making my heart skip a beat every time I look at him. Yep, I’m one lucky girl, no doubt about it.
He took off his coat and loosened his tie, looking way more relaxed. The way he rolled up his sleeves was pretty cool, showing off his toned arms. I am seeing this sight over the past four years, but it still catches my eye.
Then, he undid the first two buttons of his shirt, and it was just a small, sweet moment. He closed his eyes and leaned back on the couch, looking comfortable and chill. It was a simple thing, but it made my heart skip a beat.
His hand found mine, his fingers intertwining with mine“Tired?”I asked, feeling this mix of concern and curiosity bubbling up.
He gave this little hum, like an acknowledgment, his eyes still closed.“Let me arrange the dinner; it’s almost done. You should freshen up and enjoy a meal, giving yourself a well-deserved break,” I suggested, a gentle smile gracing my lips, my voice laced with concern.
His eyes gradually blinked open, his head resting against the couch. Slowly, he turned his gaze towards me, those tender eyes of his locking onto mine, sending this fluttery feeling through me, like a swarm of butterflies.
A soft chuckle escaped his lips, his grin adorably shy.“You really have a way of looking after me,” he murmured, his tone holding a touch of wonder.
I shrugged playfully, my cheeks tinted pink at his words.“Just doing what any caring wife would do,” I replied, my voice a mix of affection and playfulness.
His fingers brushed my cheek in this feather-light touch, his hand warm against my skin.“I’m the luckiest guy,” he confessed. My heart skipped a beat, and I shyly lowered my gaze.“And I’m the lucky one here,” I whispered, a soft smile gracing my lips.
He gently squeezed my hand, his touch filling me with warmth and comfort.“Alright then, I’ll let you weave your magic in the kitchen, and I’ll tackle this tiredness,” he agreed, a soft smile playing on his lips as his eyes held mine
He walked in, wearing the outfit I’d left on the bed –that beige tee and black trousers combo. Sliding into the seat next to Dad, who was in his usual spot at the head of the table, Mom settled in beside him.“Melody, relax. Let the maids handle the food,” she said, her tone gentle but firm.
I grinned, ready to lend a hand.“I kinda enjoy this,” I replied, starting to dish out the plates. Cooking and hosting were my jam. Mom joked, “This girl never listens to me,” and I chuckled as I took my spot next to her.
We all gathered around the table, stories and laughs flowing like crazy. In the middle of all the chatter, Dad got all excited.“Guess what? Someone’s comin’ tomorrow," he blurted out, his eyes lit up.
We exchanged looks, curiosity in the air about who’s coming. Dad spilled the beans, “Felix is jetting in from London.”Mom’s eyes went wide, her surprise pretty obvious.“Wait, What! Seriously? Why didn’t he tell me?” she asked, amazed.
Dad’s laughter filled the air, his eyes twinkling mischievously.“Well, he figured he’d spare you the trouble of cooking up his favorite dishes and all that.” Mom chuckled along, her eyes sparkling with affection.
Felix Ashford, Ryan’s younger brother, was making a return to our little family circle. He was a year older than me and four years younger than Ryan, and the prospect of his visit brought a sense of excitement to the table.
Felix’s name had always been a buzz around the family, even though I’d only heard stories about him. He’d been away in London for his studies for the past four years. Just a few months before our wedding, he had to head back for a new semester, missing our big day.
But now, after all this time, he was making his way back home, and the excitement was palpable. I caught a glimpse of Ryan, a smile tugging at his lips, probably thinking about reuniting with his younger brother.
Ryan wasn’t one to wear his heart on his sleeve, but I could sense his inner feelings, the way he let them show only to those he truly trusted and loved. I couldn’t help but smile as I looked around at all the anticipation and happiness filling the room.
to be continued...
