The Billionaire's Groom

Chapter 1. First Meeting...

Clarise was the most successful businesswoman. Had won many awards, ranked number 1in her field. Had other businessmen jealous of her. They were intimidated by her. Named Clair at birth, Clarise wanted to be known by the world. But as a child, Clarise never stood up to her family, no matter what the situation was or how bad it was. She was an invisible member of the family. Clarise would always think that life was meant to be difficult for her. She just never realised that the life she lived was hell. She never stood up for herself but found a way to be heard and to be strong. She had to be successful.

After all the struggle, and the hard work she reached a stage where no one would hurt her anymore. All the power, the control that she possessed, the status she had, there was not a soul in the world who could say anything to her.

When she entered her office building, everyone would be silent and stand. The male population in the office were either intimidated by her or would have a crush on her, the female population would either idolise her or be jealous of her. Clarise had broken all ties with her family and was living by herself. During her life with her family, Clarise had done her fair share of mistakes, but that was all in the past.

Eight years had passed after Clarise had left her home. She had changed her name from Clair Robinson to Clarise Williams. She did not look like the timid girl that she was. She was confident and smart and men were head over heels for her.

She was all dressed up to attend a charity function. "Brescia, I am in no mood to attend the charity function," said Clarise to her maid as she walked into the kitchen and sat on the stool.

" Ma'am, the function is held for a cause. The kids in the orphanage need the money. There are operations lined up for there kids. And this charity will raise the money required."

"Why, I will just pay all the bills. Problem solved"

"Yes ma'am, but because of the charity function, these kids will get to interact with the people outside their orphanage. You know how excited Kraig was.... when he found out that there were people coming to see them."

" Yes.... Brescia, you are so wise. I am happy to have you."

" Ma'am.... you know I won't be working for you now."

"I know it is your last day today, I will miss you. But your grandchildren need you more than I need you."

" Clarise.... thank you for saving my grandchildren from that evil man, he killed my daughter and had almost got away with it if you would not have intervened"

"Mamma bear... you know I love them, and they will always have aunt Clarise by their side," Clarise said as she began to eat the dinner prepared by her maid.

She had never treated her maid like a maid. Brescia was always like a motherly figure to her. "Oh and mamma bear.... will you send me food every day.... ? You know I never eat food made by other when I am at home" She asked Brescia.

"Of course, honey," she said kissing Clarise on the head, " Now finish your dinner and walk out the door to the charity function"

"Yes, mamma bear"

Clarise arrived at the venue of the charity function, a little later than expected. People looked at her in awe. She was never in the papers much, and the reporters had to be on their heels 24*7 so that they could get a picture of her, but usually failed. Her attending this charity would not only increase funds but a few of the kids may also be given an opportunity to be taken care of financially for life and would have their own trust funds.

In a long black gown, that fitted her perfectly, and showing cleavage more than she was comfortable showing, Clarise walked into the hall. People made way for her, as she walked towards her designated seat. The function began and the kids were brought to meet the guests. After meeting the guests all the kids gathered around Clarise as she signalled the waiter to bring something.