Billionaire's Unlikely Bride

Chapter 1

TWENTY YEARS AGO

Charles Barrett and Michael Prescott sat across from each other in the drawing room of the Barrett family estate, the room was decorated with dark wooden panels. Charles leaned back in his chair, a glass of whisky in his hand, while Michael gazed thoughtfully at an old painting that hung on the wall. Both men sat across from each other in the drawing room, their expressions filled with anticipation.

"This has been the best idea we've come up with so far," Michael said with a big smile spread across his face as he broke the silence. 

"So it's settled, we've come to a decision." Charles began, his voice holding the same excitement as Michael's. "This alliance between our families will guarantee our family's union for generations to come."

Michael nodded thoughtfully, his gaze fixed on a particular painting on the wall. "The marriage would be between our firstborns, your son Mason, and my unborn daughter." He replied, his voice holding hope.

Charles took a sip of his whiskey and leaned forward, his expression serious "Don't you think it's about time I met your wife?" Charles asked, a curious look in his eyes. "We've been friends for a long time and you’ve never introduced me to her."

Michael let out a soft sigh, his gaze falling to the floor. "Don't make me seem like a bad guy, Charles; you know the circumstances surrounding our marriage. You are the only one who knows she's pregnant with my child." He replied with a hint of regret in his voice.

"I understand, it's just that I don't even know what she looks like. But I'm sure once she gives birth, everything will fall in place." Charles assured him, offering a reassuring smile. 

Michael nodded, his mind still occupied with thoughts of his wife. "You're the only one I trust to keep my family safe, in case something happens to me." He said softly, his voice filled with a vulnerability that he rarely showed.

Charles reached out and clasped Michael’s shoulder firmly. "I give you my word, Michael. I will make sure our families are united." He vowed, his voice steady.

And so, the alliance between the Barrett and Prescott families was sealed.

PRESENT DAY 

The Barrett family’s mansion was as quiet as a graveyard today, Mason was finally returning from France after so many years. But the circumstances surrounding his return were what caused the whole house to be on edge.

Mason emerged from a sleek black car, the car gleaming in the afternoon sun. As the door opened, Mason stepped out, his tall frame exuding an air of confidence and authority. He adjusted the cuffs of his tailored suit, his expression unreadable as his polished leather shoes clicked against the driveway. He paused for a moment, taking in the familiar surroundings before heading inside. 

He made his way to his father's home office, his heart pounding from anger. Mason's father, Charles Barrett awaited him as he quietly gazed down at the documents in front of him. The room was lined with bookshelves and a large window offering a view of the estate. 

Charles looked up as Mason stormed in, his son’s anger evident in every step. "Why would you do this Dad?" Mason demanded, not bothering to hide the bitterness in his voice. 

"Welcome back son," Charles greeted his son with a nod, ignoring the hostility in his tone.

"Don't," Mason snapped, his voice laced with frustration. "Don't, don't act like you're happy to see me because you and I know that it was you who sent me away in the first place,"

Charles sighed, setting down his pen and leaning back in his chair. "I sent you to France for you to focus and get your life back on track. You were a mess, and I did you a favor." Charles replied, his tone measured and controlled. "You should be thankful you have people who care about you."