The Contract

Chapter 23 - The Preparations

I felt the sunlight on my face and instinctively turned to the other side, sighing in contentment. My eyes fluttered open, landing on my ring on the side table. The sunlight danced off the diamond, sending shimmering reflections around the room.

Then it hit me: this was a nightmare.

I sat up and glanced at the empty side of the bed. Alone. By the door stood a woman dressed in white, still as a statue, silently watching.

Where's Travis?

I grabbed my phone and checked the time—8:10 a.m. "Breakfast was served ten minutes ago," the woman informed me, snapping me into full alert.

Damn it! I bolted out of bed. It’s rude not to show up for breakfast on your first morning at your fiancé’s family home. Or at least, I think it is. Either way, I need them to like me.

Rushing into the bathroom, I caught a glimpse of my reflection—my hair was a mess. “Oh, great,” I muttered, frantically brushing my hair while also brushing my teeth. After washing my face, I dashed to the closet, scanning for an outfit that wouldn't scream "I woke up late."

I finally settled on a simple black dress, slipped into it, and tied my hair into a ponytail. Taking a deep breath to compose myself, I nodded at the woman, and she led me down the stairs.

Entering the dining room, I felt eyes on me as I greeted everyone. “Good morning.”

“Morning, Pearl. Slept in today?” Mrs. Ferrari noted, seated with Raquel at the table.

I forced a smile. “Yes, I’m still a little jet-lagged.”

She gave a curt nod, turning back to her meal. Not the warmest reception, but I guess it could be worse.

"Is Travis joining us?" she asked casually.

My stomach dropped. They didn't know where he was, either? I couldn’t admit that I had no idea. I’m supposed to be his fiancée—future wife—so I had to at least pretend to know his whereabouts.

“He stepped out for a bit,” I replied. “But I’m sure he’ll be back soon.”

“Typical Travis,” Raquel commented. “Workaholic. But you need to keep him in check. Wedding first, work later.”

I nodded, hoping my smile seemed genuine. “Of course.”

“So, Pearl, what do you do?” Raquel asked, raising her brows at me.

“I’m a wedding planner.”

She nodded approvingly. “Good. At least you’ll have plenty of time to support Travis as he takes on more responsibilities.”

Mrs. Ferrari’s expression was unreadable, but her gaze was steady. “Travis will have a lot on his plate, running both companies. It’ll be your role to make sure he’s supported every step of the way.”

“Absolutely,” I replied, forcing enthusiasm into my voice.

Raquel stood, grabbing her bag. “I’ll join you guys for dress shopping later, but I have a few people to catch up with now.”

“Just don’t be late,” her mother warned. “What about Lorenzo?”

“You know how he is—always busy.” Raquel shrugged, but the look Mrs. Ferrari shot her said she wasn’t pleased. Raquel muttered something in Italian as she headed out, leaving me and Mrs. Ferrari alone at the table.

I focused on my untouched meal, feeling her eyes on me. After a moment, she rose from her chair. “You should get ready; we leave for dress shopping in less than an hour. The others will meet us there.”