My future husband?

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Chapter 1: Meeting the Man I'll Marry

Sophia's Perspective:

It’s already 10 minutes past 6 p.m., and I’m still sitting alone in this elegant hotel room, waiting for Marcus Wellington, who’s supposed to be my future husband. I’ve read so much about him in the papers, but personally, I hardly know him.

We’ve only spoken twice, and both times, our parents were present. The first was at a charity gala, and the second was at my father’s birthday, which Marcus’s father, Mr. Wellington, hosted. I tried to engage him in conversation that night, but he seemed distant, and I’ve been wondering why ever since.

Now, this will be the first time we’ll meet one-on-one, and he’s the one who texted me to come here. Even though he asked me to arrive early, he’s late, and I’m starting to question whether he’s even coming.

As I wait, I can’t help but take in the luxurious surroundings. The Wellington family owns this entire hotel chain, and they’re incredibly wealthy. Marcus himself is a billionaire, an established business mogul. I know that this marriage will benefit my father’s business, and that’s the only reason I’m doing this.

Just as I’m lost in thought about how this marriage might help my family, the door opens, and Marcus enters. He’s dressed in a sharp black suit and looks incredibly handsome, even if his eyes are glued to his phone, texting as he strides in with confidence.

Though his demeanor is arrogant, I can’t deny his looks. Without a word, he pulls out the chair across from me and sits down, still focused on his phone.

The silence is unbearable, so I finally break it. “Good evening,” I say with a polite smile.

“About time,” he mutters without looking up.

“Excuse me?” I respond, surprised by his tone.

“You should have greeted me the moment I walked in,” he says, finally putting his phone down, leaning back like he’s in control.

I can’t believe the nerve. I want to say something sharp, but before I can respond, he speaks again.

“Let’s get to the point,” he says dismissively.

I suppress my frustration and nod. “Alright, let’s talk.”

“We’re getting married in a few weeks, and after that, you’ll follow my lead,” he says firmly. “You’ll attend the events I attend, like it or not.”

His tone is commanding, but I refuse to be intimidated. “Got it,” I say, meeting his gaze without flinching.

“And you’ll maintain a certain public image,” he continues. “As my wife, you represent me. Any misstep, and it’ll reflect badly on me.”

I take a deep breath, reminding myself to stay calm. “I understand. I’ll do what’s necessary,” I say, my voice steady.

Despite my frustration, I know I have to play along. Marrying Marcus is the only way to secure my father’s future. I’ll set aside my own feelings for the sake of my family.

Then Marcus asks, “Are you aware of the charity foundation and hospital I’ve funded for underprivileged children?”

“Yes, I’ve heard of them,” I reply.

“Good. Even if you don’t care, make sure you act like you do when the cameras are on,” he says coldly. I’m surprised he even bothers with charity, but it’s the first decent thing I’ve heard from him.

Switching subjects, he continues, “You weren’t my first choice. I’m only doing this because my father won’t let me take control of the company unless I get married—and it has to be you.”

I bite my lip to keep calm. How am I supposed to handle being married to a man who sees me as a business transaction?

This isn’t how I imagined marriage. I wanted love, partnership, happiness—not this. But for my father’s sake, I’ll endure it.

Marcus’s family adores me, though, and that’s at least something.

“Any questions?” he asks, his tone flat.

“No,” I reply, shaking my head.

Then, to my shock, he asks, “Are you a virgin?”

I blink in surprise, but manage to answer, “Yes.”

“Good. I have no intention of touching you,” he says bluntly.

“That’s fine by me,” I reply swiftly.

Then he mentions someone named Olivia. Before I can ask, the door swings open, and a tall, stunning woman walks in, wearing a form-fitting dress and towering heels.

Marcus immediately wraps his arm around her waist and kisses her, right in front of me.

Chapter 2: On Paper
Sophia's Perspective:

I’m frozen, staring at them while they kiss, my heart racing in my chest. When I can’t take it anymore, I turn my eyes away.

Olivia keeps making little sounds, and it irritates me—not because I want to be the one kissing Marcus (I don’t), but because they’re doing this right in front of me, and it feels disrespectful.

Finally, they stop, and she giggles. “You’ve messed up my lipstick,” she says with a flirty smile.

“I always do,” Marcus replies, grinning.

As they approach me, I keep my eyes averted, trying to mask how angry I am.

“Babe, meet Sophia, my future wife—on paper,” Marcus says nonchalantly.

Olivia crosses her arms and gives me a sharp look. “Did you get everything Marcus told you?” she asks coolly.

“Yes,” I answer, not bothering to fake a smile.

“Did he mention me?” she asks, raising an eyebrow.

“No.”

“Well, he’s mine. Stay out of our way,” she says bluntly.

“I should be the one marrying him, not you,” she adds with a pout.

Marcus wraps his arms around her and kisses her cheek. “We’ve already discussed this,” he says softly.

“I just don’t like it,” she complains.

“It doesn’t change anything,” he replies, reassuring her with another kiss.

And just like that, I’m reminded of my place in this twisted arrangement.