The news of ethan and Avery's wedding spread like wildfire through their social circle. Some were suspicious and surprised by the speed and secrecy surrounding their marriage. No one could guess the reason behind their marriage since they both agreed to keep it a secret.
"Ethan Blackwood's only looking out for himself. Avery just a pawn in his game"
"This is just a PR stunt, I don't believe for a second that they're in love"
"Congratulations to the latest couple"
Emily's eyes widened in shock as she read about Avery's wedding to Ethan Blackwood. She couldn't believe her step-sister had managed to snag someone so powerful and wealthy. Ethan blackwood was a name that commanded respect and power. She was both angry, jealous and resentful. She wondered if she had made the best decision by choosing harrison. She had thought he was the best she could get, but after seeing Avery with Ethan, Harrison seemed like a consolation price.
"I hate how everyone is fawning over her. Don't they see it's all a facade? That she is only using him for his money and influence?"
She couldn't just sit back and watch Avery take the spot light. She needs to prove that she was the one Worthy of attention and admiration.
*
As Avery walked into the house, her step-mother's eyes widened in shock and anger.
"What is the meaning of this?" She demanded with an icy cold voice
"I have just gotten married, mother. To ethan Blackwood"
Vivian's face turned red with rage. She knew Avery was out to get revenge and she was scared of the outcome. She had treated Avery bad all these years and when Avery was getting married to Harrison, she found a way to convince Harrison that Emily was a better choice.
"You think you're so clever, don't you? Marrying into wealth and power. But you have no idea what you're getting yourself into"
Avery shrugged."I think I do, mother. And am excited to see what the future holds for ethan and I".
"I'll make sure you're miserable. You'll be trapped in a life of luxury but still be miserable"
Avery laughed, feeling a sense of freedom
"We'll see about that, mother. For now, I think am exactly where am supposed to be"
With that, Avery turned and walked to her room, leaving vivian to stew in her own anger and resentment. The sound of her step mother's angry muttering made her smile more.
Ethan followed Avery as she walked upstairs. He admired the way she handled the situation with poise and confidence. He was pleased that he married such a strong and confident woman. His eyes were fixed on her figure, he couldn't help but feel drawn to her, and he found himself wanting more of her.
"She might just be my perfect obsession" he thought to himself
When they reached the bedroom, Ethan closed the door and leaned against the door frame.
"My love.., now that we're married, I think it's time we start living together" Ethan said with a low and smooth voice.
Avery's eyes skipped a bit as Ethan called her "my love" she felt a flutter in her chest, and her mind went blank for a moment
Ethan continued…
"Our marriage is on contract basis and as part of the arrangement, it's expected that we will be living together, if we don't, people will start to wonder if our marriage is legitimate and that could damage both our reputation".
Avery's mind was racing. She didn't want to be tied down to a marriage that was just a business arrangement. But at the same time, they can't live separately as couples
"Fine.., I'll move in with you"she sighed, sagging her shoulders in resignation
"But just remember, this is all part of the contract arrangement. Don't get any ideas about this being a real romance".
Ethan's laughter echoed through the room, his eyes glinting with amusement as he walked over to her picking up a box and filling it with books from the shelf
"I'm not just offering, I'm insisting. After all, I'm your husband now" he said while giving her a kiss on the forehead
Avery rolled her eye
"Oh, really!? I didn't know that was part of the husband's description"she said with a straight face while pouting her lips
Ethan chuckled "it should be. Now what's going on storage and what's going to the mansion?"
Avery hesitated for a moment before answering
"I think I'll keep most of my furniture in storage for now. I'm not sure if it'll fit into the decor of your home."
As they worked together, Avery noticed how effortlessly Ethan fit into her space. It was a strange feeling for her because she had always been independent. Ethan teased her about her favorite books and extensive shoe collection.
"Thanks for your help, ethan,"she said as they finished up the last box.
Ethan smiled back, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
"Anytime, my love… thats what husband's are for