Unhappily Married by; Rachel N.

Part 1

CHAPTER ONE

Nikita stepped into the grand mansion, feeling like a small fish out of water. The opulent chandeliers, lavish furnishings, and intricate artwork on the walls all seemed to whisper, "You don't belong here." But she pushed aside her doubts and followed the butler to the study where Helena Artem awaited her.

Helena's words fell like a gentle hammer, shaping the conversation with precision and grace. "So, Nikita, we've called you here today to discuss a proposal." Her gaze danced with mirth, like a sunbeam playing on the surface of a quiet lake. "My son, the owner of the school you attend, is in need of a wife. And we believe you're the perfect candidate."

Nikita's mind raced as she tried to process Helena's words. Marry the rich, handsome, and charismatic owner of the school? It sounded like a fairy tale, but she knew better. There had to be a catch. "I don't understand," she stammered, trying to sound composed. "I mean, I don't even know him."

Helena's tone was as smooth as honey, dripping with warmth and persuasion. "Oh, Nikita, you know him. Everyone knows him. He's the most eligible bachelor in town, and you're not immune to his charms, are you?" Her expression was a masterful blend of kindness and knowing, like a wise mentor offering a gentle nudge.

Nikita felt a flush rise to her cheeks as she recalled the countless times she'd daydreamed about him. Who wouldn't? He was the epitome of perfection, with chiseled features, piercing blue eyes, and a chiseled physique that made even the most straight-laced individuals weak in the knees.

As Helena continued to speak, Nikita's thoughts swirled with the implications of the proposal. It sounded like a business deal, not a marriage. But the prospect of financial stability, of never having to worry about rent or tuition fees again, was tantalizing. Her gaze wandered to the photograph on the table, and her heart skipped a beat as she reached for the picture, her fingers tracing the contours of his face.

Finally, she whispered, "I'll do it." Helena's face broke into a triumphant smile, like a sunrise bursting over the horizon. "Excellent choice, Nikita. Welcome to the family."

*

Nikita emerged from the opulent bedroom, a space fit for royalty, and slipped her feet into the waiting shoes. She let out a loud, ungraceful yawn, which echoed through the room, causing her to cringe in hopes that no one had witnessed her morning awkwardness.

After a refreshing shower, Nikita selected an outfit and stepped out into the hallway, bracing herself for the day ahead. But fate had other plans. As she turned a corner, she collided with a figure, and a voice snapped, "Watch it!" Eugene, the youngest Artem sibling and a Hollywood starlet, pushed past Nikita with a scowl.

Nikita stumbled backward, taken aback by the sudden encounter. It was a classic Nikita move – trying to avoid someone only to end up crashing into them instead. Eugene, with her perfectly coiffed hair and designer attire, barely broke stride. She was already engrossed in her phone, a bright smile spreading across her face as she addressed her millions of followers.

"That was no one, let me show you the living room," Eugene cooed, flaunting her lavish surroundings. Her fans ate it up, but Nikita saw right through her polished facade. Beneath the glamour and charm, Eugene was a diva with an attitude problem, and Nikita suspected she knew she could get away with it thanks to her family's influence and wealth.

Nikita watched Eugene saunter away, her entourage trailing behind, and couldn't help but wonder what other challenges this day would bring.

Nikita stood in the grand hallway, watching as Daria, a no-nonsense helper with a purposeful stride, marched towards her. Daria's rugged features and athletic build reminded Nikita of an ex-MMA fighter, leaving her wondering what task lay ahead.