BOUND BY BETRAYAL

Chapter Five

It was already morning and the cold winter breeze in Los Angeles serves as a gentle reminder that Christmas is fast approaching. The holiday spirit fills the air as people prepare for the joyous festivities ahead. 

The squirting sounds of the squirrels hopping from one cinnamon tree to another fill the air, but their discordant melody is nothing compared to the pain that weighs heavily on my heart. The dissonance of nature mirrors the turmoil within.

I stood in the middle of my room, gazing at my reflection, adorned in a breathtaking ensemble for my wedding with Damien. I couldn't deny that I looked stunning, but deep down, this wasn't the marriage I had envisioned. It pained me to think that my special day would be overshadowed by sorrow and heartache.

Margaret has worked her magic, skillfully concealing the dark circles under my eyes with layers of foundation and makeup, transforming my face into a stunning sight. One would think I should be overjoyed, right? But despite the outward beauty, my heart feels burdened, weighed down by an indescribable heaviness.

I was supposed to marry Mason, the one I thought would be my forever. But here I am, about to wed a man I barely know, all because of one fateful night that shattered my world. It's a painful reminder of how one mistake can alter the course of our lives.

I feel so sad for my father. It's heartbreaking to see my father's company, a renowned establishment in Los Angeles, targeted by the infamous Albrecht family. Their reputation for living above the law precedes them, so it's no surprise that they would go to any lengths to acquire our company, even if it means creating a messy situation.

The Albrecht family is known for their extensive business ventures across continents, spanning both legal and illegal industries. Though no proof has ever been found of their illegal business, that's simply how they live above the law by paying off the law keepers and continuing to indulge in their tourism business. 

So when my father broke the horrible marriage news to me, it was devastating, leaving me feeling hurt and betrayed. Despite my infatuation with the heir of the Albrecht group, it was clear that they had no qualms about forcefully seizing my father's company, knowing how much it meant to him.

"It's time, miss," Margaret said, interrupting my swirling thoughts.

I gulped hard and turned to face her. With a nod, I acknowledged that it was time to confront the harsh reality. As she opened the door for me to step out, I was taken aback to find my father standing there, dressed in a sleek black tuxedo.

"Da……fath……d ....er," I looked flushed, unsure of the exact word to use to address him. 

He stretched his hand towards me, and in that moment, I could see the pain hidden behind the facade of his smile. "I am here to walk you down the aisle," he said, his voice filled with a mix of emotions.

I smiled, although it felt like a painful stretch. Today was meant to be a joyous occasion with my dad and Mason by my side, but instead, it turned out to be the most devastating day of my life. With trembling hands, I reached out and placed my hand in his, trying to find some solace in his presence.

Margaret seemed delighted as she beheld me in the pristine white dress, oblivious to the turmoil within me. My father nodded, turned around, and began leading us down the aisle, a bittersweet moment unfolding before us.

However, immediately the ceremonial hall swung open, and my heart skipped a beat as I took in the sea of people. It was astonishing to see such a crowd, considering the impromptu nature of this wedding. The paparazzi were swarming, capturing every moment with their cameras. The entire place exudes opulence, a testament to the involvement of a prominent public figure. What did I expect? Luxury was inevitable in this whirlwind affair.