In a society where arranged marriages dictate destiny, Aiden Baldwin, a man bound by duty and honor, is consumed by uncontrollable desire for Karlie Coldwater. As they navigate the treacherous waters of forbidden love, they must defy societal norms...
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"The men should be by soon," Kat stated. "Places, guys. Let's get this perfect, OK?" They started rehearsing again. Ariel looked up just in time to see Aiden walk through the door with Cole and the others. She looked at him, he looked at her. "OK, he's coming over here," Kat said. "Hi, Aiden," stated, and without even thinking, she smiled and said, "Kat, meet my fiancé Aiden Baldwin.
"So, you are the guy who is hard to get a hold of," Kat said. "Cole wouldn't have anyone else be his best man." She smiled. "It's a pleasure to meet you. I've heard so much about you."
Kat was beautiful. She was slender, with a dark complexion, really curly hair, and dark brown eyes. She was about 5ft 5inches and had a few freckles on her face. Kat was what they would call a mixed child. Her parents were one of the first couples in their society to defy all odds. When her parents were matched together, her dad being black and her mom from Indian descent, it was truly a beautiful match. Aiden had done a little deep dive check into all of Cole's associates. He wanted to have an idea of who he was going to be around, but Kat was alright with him. She had a great personality. Aiden started to lighten up a bit, but what amazed him was how Ariel was acting as if nothing happened. He was very confused.
"OK, guys, let's get the ball rolling," they rehearsed again, and it went well. The pastor arrived and spoke to them.
Afterwards, there was a room with food and refreshments. They all ate and talked. "Ari, can I have a moment, please?" "Certainly," she replied. They walked out of the dining area into the hallway. "Hi," he said. "Are you OK?" "Yes, I am. Why wouldn't I be?" she responded.
"I mean, our brunch didn't go as planned, and I haven't heard from you since, and I was worried today was going to be odd." He paused. "I don't want to hurt you, Ari." She looked at him and smiled. "I am fine.
We are fine. So no need for concern. I have a duty to my family, and so do you. So we may not be each other's perfect idea of love, but we have to make it work.
So as of today, I'll pretend that what you told me at brunch didn't happen, and we move on accordingly, OK?" Aiden was dumbfounded. He didn't know if he was supposed to be impressed or concerned. What was Ariel up to? Why was she this calm? He didn't understand.
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