“I would like to welcome Mr. and Mrs. Norman to the stage to cut the reception cake,” Blake’s voice echoed through the hall. Janette, still nestled in Asher’s arms, flushed. She hadn’t realized how much attention Asher was giving her until that moment, his gaze lingering on her rather than his brother. She looked down, her cheeks warm. What is this man doing to me? Janette wondered. Shyness wasn’t something she was used to feeling, but today was full of surprises.
They walked to the beautifully decorated stage as a waiter brought out the table with the cake on it. The cake was a perfect blend of chocolate and vanilla, its white base adorned with delicate chocolate flowers. Together, they cut into it, the crowd clapping as Asher fed Janette a piece, and she returned the gesture. Asher then cut another piece and offered it to Blake, who fed both Asher and Janette, before they all turned to offer a bite to their father. It felt like a small moment of unity, a Norman family tradition.
Blake officially introduced himself to Janette as the party continued, the night unfolding in a blur of faces and conversations. Janette felt Asher’s hand rest possessively on her wrist, silently marking his claim. Some people admired them, while others—particularly women—gazed at her with open hostility. If my favorite celebrity married someone mysterious and unknown, I might be a little jealous too, Janette thought, though she doubted she would glare the way they did. Internally, she rolled her eyes, though she maintained her poised, confident smile.
Despite the warmth of Asher’s presence and the support of the Norman family, the evening started to feel overwhelming. The conversations she had with some women stung. They subtly tried to remind her that she’d made a mistake marrying Asher and that her relationship with him wouldn’t last. Though she tried not to let their words affect her, a quiet sadness settled in. She knew deep down that her marriage with Asher was complicated, with no guaranteed happy ending.
Seeking some solitude, Janette excused herself and stepped out onto the large balcony connected to the hall. Thankfully, no one was out there. She exhaled deeply, whispering to herself, “This place isn’t for me.”
“Indeed,” a voice said, startling her. She spun around to see Blake Norman approaching, two drinks in hand.
He looked effortlessly charming in his navy-blue suit and white shirt. Though he shared features with Asher and their father, his eyes were strikingly different—a vibrant green, likely from their mother, she guessed. Blake handed one of the drinks to her, and though she hesitated at first, she eventually took it. She wasn’t sure how long it had been since she last drank or what the consequences might be, but Blake didn’t seem concerned.
“So, my brother brought you here from some land of fairies,” Blake teased, raising an eyebrow. “How did you manage to steal his heart?”
Janette blushed at his words. Steal his heart? She barely knew how she’d gotten here, let alone what Asher saw in her. “I have no idea what he saw in me,” she admitted, her voice soft.
Blake chuckled. “I know what he saw in you. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if my brother would ever find someone who fit his tastes, but seeing you today, I can say without a doubt—you’re the only one who deserves to be his wife.”
Janette didn’t know how to respond. To avoid saying anything awkward, she took a sip of her drink, letting the warmth of the alcohol steady her nerves.
“What makes you say that?” she asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.
Blake smiled, a fondness creeping into his expression. “You remind me of our mother. She used to do the same thing—sneak away from parties to stand on the balcony until they were over. And like you, she never had much patience for the rich ladies inside.”
“Moreove—” Before Blake could finish, Asher’s voice interrupted them.
“You two are out here, and I was starting to think my brother had run off with my wife.” Janette shot him a playful glare.
Blake smirked. “Someone should tell him that he’s terrible at joking. Really, don’t even try.”
Janette stifled a laugh as Asher raised his hands in mock surrender. “Alright, alright,” Asher said with a grin. “But I’m here for my wife. The party’s over, and I can’t wait to get her alone and shower her with kisses.”
Blake rolled his eyes. “Since when did you become a lovesick puppy?” he whispered in Asher’s ear, though Janette caught it and cleared her throat dramatically. Blake grinned, unfazed.
“Well, I guess I can’t control you two any longer. You’re free to go,” Blake teased, shaking his head.
“It was nice meeting you, Janette,” Blake said warmly.
“Nice meeting you too, Blake,” she replied, giving him a genuine smile.
Asher took her hand, leading her toward the car. The last thing Janette remembered before she was gently pressed against the car was Asher’s lips capturing hers in a deep, lingering kiss.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Guys!
I don't know when I am going to update next because, of holidays,I just need some time to inspire myself.
Hope we have a prosperous and safe 2021.
Question
What 2020 taught you?
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Billionaire's Bride
Romance#Completed Janette's world is shattered the day she walks into her home, fresh from her graduation, only to find out the people who raised her aren't her real parents. Her true identity? The long-lost daughter of wealthy millionaires, Robert and Ju...