Forced Marriage, Destined Lover

Pearl's POV:

Like even though I was the one who invested the principal amount for the boutique I'm running now, when I told my family that I need inspiration for my designs, they helped me to travel various countries like France, Germany, China, India and many more. Because I can only know their culture by observing them while being in there personally and adapting the way of their fashion to bring diversity to my designs and make them different from the pattern the American were used to.

My walk in closet is full of various types of clothes, shoes, ornaments and countless other accessories because I have an obsession to always look pretty for my own self. But other than these, I'm not very fond of wealth as I don't keep more than one car for my personal chores and I just own that one vacation house near the sea which was a gift from my father. But to meet up to my every demand, my family made sure that efficient people worked for me.

I was named Pearl by my granny because in her prospect I am very precious. By the love my family showered me with, I always felt myself precious indeed. Just like my name.

My father is managing his family business and owns many malls, hotels and so on and my mother is from one of the richest families of America who is currently managing a trust fund named after her father. My elder brother Christen is helping papa in business and my evil twin brother Armin is trying to start his own hotel business.

I think I was made by God on a Sunday, because in my 5 feet 6 glory I am drop dead gorgeous. Conceited? I know. The girls around me usually hate me and nothing stops them from bitching about me behind my back. As if I care! It is not my fault that I am perfect in all perspective. But they are the same people who try to always please me and almost beg to be my friend cause that's where all the attentions are.

I was always treated like a princess as I am the only daughter of the family. I can have all of the luxuries I want and support from my family. But they want only one thing in return and that is to marry Ryan Anderson who is the only son of Robin Anderson, one of the closest friends of my father.

Ryan Anderson has the looks of Hugo Boss's model and is the most eligible bachelor of America. He can be the hero of any CEO employee love story but he is yet to be the CEO of his father's company. Only if he was having a relation with one of his employees! I know too cliche to handle, right?

He is now 26 years old and soon won't be a bachelor anymore, since we'll be married. I am actually happy that I will marry him. It is not like that Nathaniel Morrow will be interested in me anyways, so why not a Hugo Boss model!

Thinking who is Nathan, right? He is my neighbor and a long time crush. He is a doctor and in France for a seminar right now. I hoped all my life I will have a love life with the guy next door. But he does not even take another look at me while the other boys are dying to be my boyfriend even though they were aware of my engagement with Ryan.

I did not try to attract him though as I was not desperate. But if he had liked me back I would have pursued my family to let me marry him. But he did not.

The only other boy who did not look at me was Ryan himself. He was always typing on his phone whenever he visited us along with his father. I knew he was a businessman and he tends to be busy. But still I was a little bit curious what he did on that all the time. His lack of interest to get along with me was probably the reason why I got attracted to Nathan as I often found myself wondering if marrying Ryan will do me good or not.

I always wanted a fairytale where the princess marry the prince and lives happily ever after.

But I could have my happily ever after even with him, right?

Ryan's POV:

Ryan Anderson. That's me. I was nominated as the most eligible bachelor last month by a famous magazine. I got my graduation degree in business administration from Columbia.

So, I had only one prayer and that was to be saved from marrying her by the grace of God almighty.

Pearl's POV:

"Pearl dear, are you ready for tonight's party?" My mother asked me entering my room. That night night papa and uncle Rob was going to announce their new project, a shipping business actually, in which they were both equal shareholders. Uncle Rob had called me the day before and said that there would be two surprises for me, which I was really excited for.

I was wearing a silk violet gown with sweetheart neckline which matched my eyes and I tied my hair in an elegant bun. There was a diamond bracelet gracing my wrist and I completed the look with a pair of black 6 inch stilettos. As usual, Ryan is my date tonight and the stilettos would give me the heights that I  desired. Because I loved to be in the same height as him.

My mom was also wearing a gown which was in a very beautiful shade of crème and she was carrying a shawl with it. I often wondered how did she manage to look still so elegant and lovely, especially at the age of late forty.

"Mamma I am ready." I twirled around to show myself properly, a little bit childish thing to do, but I always tried to give my parents a impression that I was still there little girl as parents usually hated to see their children all grown up.

"Oh my... My daughter is looking stunning." My mother's eyes beamed with happiness.

"Are you sure? All the boys will have a mild heart attack?" I questioned her in a serious tone.

"Obviously they won't even move their eyes off from you. Ryan will think himself so lucky."

"Well. He doesn't even look at me. He is always on his phone. If I had been born as an iPhone he would have probably looked at me." I mumbled as my heart became heavy with the thought of his indifference.

"He may be looks at you stealthily, you never know?" Mamma said with hopeful eyes. But it was clear in her voice that she knew how Ryan behaved around me.

"Or may be his eyes hurt while looking at me. Because I am so hot for him to handle." I laughed as my mother smacked on my arm playfully.

"Enough of joking. Let us go downstairs or your father will think that you have gone missing. He is sometime so intemperate." She muttered annoyingly.

"Papa loves me more than all of you. So, don't be jealous of your own daughter." I winked turning to leave the room.

"Incredible father and daughter." She sighed following me.

"Ladies and gentleman may I have your attention please?" Uncle Rob spoke through the microphone. All of the guests turned to him. "Thanks, as you all know we are here for a important announcement and I would like to announce that now. The thing here is, my longtime friend Mr. Altos Bennett and I are going to open a shipping business together. It will start from tomorrow."

All clapped on that excitedly as I was holding Ryan by the arm and we both were listening to uncle Rob.

I felt Ryan's body hardened beside me. What happened to him now?

"Thanks uncle but it was not necessary." I gave him a humble smile.

"It was dear." He smiled at me and turn his attention to the guests again. "You all know Ryan and Pearl's marriage is fixed from a long time. I want you all to know that they will be married on the first Sunday of next month."

The guests started clapping vigorously.

Ryan removed my hand from his arm and went towards his father. Well, I didn't expect that. I know it was announced all of a sudden but he knew that we will be married one day. Right?

From the position I was standing, I saw him telling his father something. But the question is what could be that?

"I have to talk to my son about the planning of the marriage. Excuse me, please." He turned and went inside with Ryan.

What the hell was that?

Ryan's POV:

I just can't believe this my father named the company on Pearl's name for which I worked from dawn to dusk. On top of that he just announced my marriage without even talking to me. I can't handle it anymore. I have to talk to him now, at this moment. So, I walked to him removing Pearl's hand from my arm. She was clutching my arm all the time. It irritated the hell out of me.

"Dad, I have to talk to you now." I said through gritted teeth careful enough so nobody hears.

He nodded at me and excused himself from the guests.

We went to one of the spare bedrooms of Bennett house as the party was held here.

"Why did you act like that in front of so many peoples. There were press people. If they don't take it well then rumors will be spread like wildfire." He snapped at me.

"Why didn't you tell me that you are announcing my marriage and why did you name shipping line on Pearl's name?" I snapped back at him.

"You are going out of control day by day. You have to marry her one day. I just fixed the date and it is on your future wife name. I don't think that is a problem." He said in a cold and firm voice.

"I am not a child dad that you can control. I won't marry her because I love Natalie." I rubbed my forehead.

"I know you like that gold digger. But I won't ever allow her to be my daughter in law." He glared at me, his lips thinned with irritation.

"She isn't a gold digger dad. She is just not like that porcelain doll." I stood straight and faced him.

"Think before what you say and she is the daughter I never had." He stated.

"I won't marry her. You can't make me marry her." I said confidently.

"Are you sure young man? If you embarrass me you won't get even one percent share from my business and I will make sure that you and your Natalie don't get any job anywhere." He smirked at me.

He was not serious, was he?

"You don't have any other child. Who will be the owner than?" I groaned with disappointment.

"I will transfer all my property on Pearl's name." He said calmly.

"You will transfer it on Pearl's name." I whispered in disbelief. What exactly she did to get my father on her side like that?

"Yes, I sure will. Note my words and think about what you will do. You will marry her. Am I correct?"

I just nodded my head, feeling helpless.

"Good. I knew you're smart." He said giving me a evil smile before he walked out.

What would I say to Natalie? Where I got myself stuck in?

Pearl's POV:

Uncle Rob came out from inside with a full moon smile on his face followed by Ryan who was in a stony mood.

'Why is there a big difference between their mood?' I asked myself.

Don't think of these things Pearl. That is not your place. They can do whatever they want.

The inner bitch of me snapped at me.

"Ms. Bennett congratulations. You will be married soon. How are you feeling?" A middle length man asked bringing me out from my thought land, he was holding a notepad in his hand which assured that he was some sort of reporter.

"I am really happy. What can a girl want anything more when she is going to be an Anderson?" I replied giving him the best ravishing smile I could muster.

"I bet you are. So why your fiancée went rapidly to his father as soon as the date was announced. Does he not want to marry you?" He questioned in whole seriousness that caught me off guard.

"He.."

"Because I wanted to marry her before that day as I can't wait to marry her any longer. I want to make her mine as soon as possible. So I went my father to talk about it. But he said it takes time to arrange a marriage. Bad luck." Ryan interrupted me, wrapping his hand around my waist.

Oh his words flattered me. Not.

"Yeah.. We wanted to marry next week but uncle Rob's wish is our wish." Well two can play this game, right?

"Well, thanks and enjoy your night." The reporter smiled at us and went to another person.

"Um.. Thanks for answering on my behalf but where did you go like that with uncle?" I asked shifting my eyes on him.

"That is none of your business." He muttered.

"That is. People will be asking me why did you do that. What will I answer them?"

"The same thing that I said to the reporter."

"Are you for real? I, myself isn't convinced with your answer then why will be other people?"

"Why are you not convinced?"

"You are asking me? Did you ever looked at me properly?" I narrowed my eyes.

"Then why don't you"

One of my close friends, Ashley cut him off. "Pearl, Mrs. Franz wants to talk to you about your boutique."

She pulled me to meet her, not giving me a chance to say something.

That made me slightly irritated because I really wanted to know what he was going to say.

Ryan's POV:

I wanted to tell her to cancel the marriage. I couldn't do that but she could. But her stupid friend had to come at that time.

One minute, she said something about a boutique. Pearl owns a boutique? I didn't know that. So what? She must be just wasting her father's money. No design can come out from that stupid brain and I am sure about that.

I had to leave the party and talk to Natalie. She might've saw the news about my marriage on TV. What will she think about me? I have to make her understand that I love her only.

My phone vibrated. It's a message from Natalie.

You're marrying her? Were you playing with me all these time?

My baby is hurt. This is Pearl's fault. I hate her.

Baby, you know I love you. Please try to understand I had no other way. I will talk to her about cancelling this marriage. I am coming in your place. I will tell you everything.

She replied in a minute.

You better do that Mr. Anderson. I am waiting.

Mr. Anderson? My baby is really angry at me. I had to go to her as soon as possible. I had to get out of there.

I got myself out of that place with great efforts. Let's skip how I did that. I am now in front of Natalie's apartment and I knocked the door.

"Come." Nate opened the door after three knocks.

"Baby I am so sorry for that. I didn't know dad planned anything like this." I said hugging her.

"Why didn't you tell your father that you won't marry her?" She snapped. BTW she looks hot when she is angry.

"I told him. He threatened me to deprive from all his property if I don't marry her. But if you don't want me to marry her I won't." I told her firmly.

"I don't wanna be the reason of that. But I can't see you with anyone else. So, I will leave the city tomorrow." She choked as I hold her tightly in my arm.

"No, baby. I won't be with her. If I have to marry her then I will give her divorce as soon as my father makes me the CEO." I assured her.

"So, it will be a contact marriage?" She pushed me a little to look at me.

"I can't do that. She is Pearl Bennett. She has no reason to do that. But I won't love her ever because you are the only one for me." I trailed off.

"It's not enough for me. What if you became attracted to her?" She muttered sadly.

"I don't like her and won't even touch her. Believe me baby." I said tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

"You aren't lying. Are you?"

"No, I aren't." I told her pressing my lips on her forehead.

"OK then. I trust you. You can marry her as long as you are still mine." She smiled.

"Oh, Nate you are so understanding." I heaved a sigh.

"I ought to be." She said hugging me.

God what have I done to get this woman's love? I am so perfectly happy to be with her. But I have to be with Pearl again. So disgusting.

Now when I think about that I can't tell her to not marry me. She is a daddy's daughter. She will definitely say him that I told her to cancel the marriage and that will cause ruckus. Even if she doesn't tell him my dad will get suspicious and the reaction won't be good for me. Moreover, if she wants to marry me badly then she will, no matter what I think of her. So, I have to go along with it. I have to marry her Highness.

But what happens when I tell that I can't love her after the wedding? I have to make sure that it remains a secret until I divorce her.

Pearl's POV:

Only five days left before my wedding. If you ask me that I am excited or not then my answer will be yes and no.

Thinking what kind of answer is that?

Yes, because I am excited to wear my wedding dress and all the attention I will be getting that day and no because one can't be excited to get herself stuck in a marriage without love.

But no one knows what will happen in future. May be... Just may be I can get the love of my life from this marriage. It will take time but I will.

I know Ryan doesn't look at me properly but come on I am the gorgeous Pearl Bennett. Every boy dies to just see me. Even Ryan probably. I think he pretends to ignore me because he wants to keep his respect by not drooling over me.

There can't be any other reason, am I right?

My days are going by searching church for our marriage, going to jewelry shops and doing lots of shopping for my wedding.

My wedding dress will be designed by Khalil, assistant designer of my boutique. He requested me to give him the honor to do this in which I happily agreed. Cause I know he is naturally talented, I met him in India. He was studying fashion designing there and I got the chance to meet him by incidence. When I offered him the job to assist me he almost cried due to happiness.

It has been almost six months of my boutique and it is now a famous name among the women. We are expecting to do a fashion show next month.

I am more excited about that than my wedding.

Wedding!!!!!

"Wake up, sleepy head!" Someone yelled near my ear and I woke up almost jumping.

"What?" I groaned rubbing my eyes and looked at the idiot who woke me up from my sweet sleep.

It was Sofia. My beautiful 19 years old cousin. Who will be my maid of honor and extremely serious about everything.

"It is already 9." She informed with a serious face.

"So?" I said as I really don't know why she is telling me the time.

"So! You are telling me so!" Her eyes are looking like they will come out anytime.

What is wrong with her?

"For God's sake it is your wedding today." She shouted. She really doesn't have any respect for elders.

"Oh." I sat up with annoyed face.

Wait.

What???

My wedding!!!!?

I will be married today????

"Don't tell me you forgot that." She almost shouted. Disbelief was prominent in her eyes.

"Huh! Yeah... I mean... I know.. But.. But it slipped from my mind." I stammered.

"You are so stupid."

I felt myself bewildered.

"Hey, I am not."

"You are. Who forgets about her wedding?"

"It was a mistake and I didn't forget. It just slipped out."

"Has the bride woken up from beauty sleep?" I heard a voice and looked at the door to find Kara my personal beautician.

"Kara thank god you are here." I ran to hug her.

"Give me a hug also." I looked up and saw Louisa, my best friend. She is the only girl who is my friend because she likes me for who I am not for my family status.

"Obviously" With that I hugged her.

"Ok, let's start my magic on her." Kara rubbed the palm of her hand with each other as I laughed.

"Where is Khalil? I didn't saw my dress till now." I whined.

"Be patient bride. Here is your dress." I turned to see Khalil's standing beside Louisa.

He was holding a big bag which I grabbed from her hand.

I took it out and was stunned by it's beauty.

It passed my ankle and the skirt of the dress was fluffy. There were silver color embroidery on the upper portion of the white dress. It was backless with no sleeve. But the most important thing is, it's pearled near the waist. I know he used pearl because of my name.

"I love it." I smiled at Khalil. I would've gave him a hug but he feels awkward about it.

"I am happy that you liked it." Khalil pretended to bow and I smacked on his shoulder laughing.

"We are getting late. Eat something dear, then we have to make you ready for our eligible bachelor who is going to become eligible husband." Kara stated giving me a mischievous smile.

I skipped a heartbeat hearing that.

Is he?

"If a competition happens between the brides you will get the first prize." Louisa grinned.

I looked at myself in the mirror. Kara really did magic. I was always beautiful. But today... Today I am looking different. She didn't made a bun with my hair like others. She kept it open slightly curling it and used pearl to make it look more attractive. She gave me natural makeup with light pink lipstick. I am wearing five inch silver color stilettos and simple diamond necklace. In my ears there are diamond stud earrings and a platinum bracelet in my left hand.

"Don't say things like that. The bride will catch evil eye." Khalil protested and everyone laughed.

"We won't." Kara assured him smiling and turned to me. "Stay here, we are going to get ready."

I nodded and they left the room.

What I am going to do? I am feeling so restless.

I closed the door and went near the window beside my bed and closed my eyes feeling the breeze.

Half an hour left. I am going to be his. Ryan's.

A smile made it way to my lips.

Suddenly someone started to kiss me on my neck and collarbone from behind. I was shocked.

What is happening?

I tried to move away but the person hold me tight by sliding his one hand on my stomach and his other hand clamp around my mouth to not let me shout.

Tears came out from my eyes as I couldn't do anything save myself from him.

Anyone never touched me like that.

He turned me around and attacked my lips with his. My vision was too blur to see his face as he was kissing me furiously. I pushed him with my all force and finally I was able to see his face.

He?

What is he doing here?

Why did he kiss me?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ryan's POV:

It is time to say our vows. But her Highness is still not here. Did she ran away? If she did that I aren't going to leave her. How dare she?

Why I am getting hyper? Isn't it good for me if she doesn't come? I can easily get rid off her then.

But I am feeling angry.

No don't get the wrong impression. I am angry because if she ran away then it will hurt my ego and you know the reason. I am the most eligible bachelor of the state, Ryan Anderson. It will be a matter of shame if she did something like that. What will be the reaction of the public? It will be allover the media.

"Someone is becoming restless to marry." I heard Damon McLaren, my best man cum best friend snickering behind me.

"Just shut that mouth of yours. I have no wish to marry that barbie doll." I hissed.

"Really? Then move and let me marry her. Marrying Pearl. It will be an honor." He chuckled as I glared at him. If there were any system to burn someone by glaring then by now he would have became ash.

"Go and marry her then." I said through gritted teeth.

"Cool down man. By the way where is princess? Isn't she late." He cocked his brow up.

"How would I know where she is? She is embarrassing me. I swear" I stopped in the middle of my sentence as I saw her walking down the aisle followed by her bridesmaids.

She is looking beautiful though I can't see her face because of the veil. Her father is holding her right hand and two really cute little girls holding flowers were walking in front of her. They were the flower girls I suppose.

I looked around the church and noticed every young man gasping. I know they are envying me for marrying the most beautiful heiress. I felt proud for a moment but it quickly changed into frown. Why is she looking like that she is shaking. What took her so much time?

Pearl's POV:

I am walking down the aisle holding my papa's hand. I looked up to see Ryan and he is practically frowning. I felt so guilty like I cheated on him. But there was nothing like that. He kissed me forcefully and I didn't kissed him back. I am a girl who wanted to give her first kiss to her husband. But he stole it. I never even imagined that he will do something like that.

"Relax my princess, don't be nervous." Papa patted on my back to stop me from shaking. He thought I am nervous. If only he knew.....

Flashback:

"What are you doing here?" I asked trying to catch my breath.

"Please Pearl, don't marry him. I can't leave without you 'cause I.... I love you." He said trying to touch my face but I moved away before he could do that.

"You love me? I'm going to be married in less than half an hour and here you're asking me to not marry him because you love me! Are you insane?" I whisper yelled at him. I ushered him towards the balcony door saying, "Go."

"I won't. Why are you doing this? Cause I know this can't be for love. Then why? When I know you love me then why are you going to marry him?" Desperation was clear in his eyes as he uttered the words.

I looked away from his eyes as it was too much for me. "I don't love you and you have no right to ask me those questions."

"You loved me." He pressed.

"I don't. Now go."

"I'm not going anywhere without you. You're going to come with me and we will get married today, here, in this very Church." He said as he grabbed my hand and started pulling me.

"I won't marry you. The only man I'm going to marry today is Ryan." I said and started hitting him on the hand which was holding mine. But that didn't affect him even a little bit.

"But why? I will keep you happy more than he ever can." He said in a tone which we use to talk to a five years old.

"How can I? Or more precisely why will I? My whole family is waiting there for me to come. Today is my wedding day and I'm Ryan's bride for God's sake." I was controlling the sob which was threatening to come out at any moment.

"Why will you? Right! My whole life Pearl, my whole life I dreamed to make you mine, my wife. I was planning to how to ask for your hands for years. But I never got the chance. I bought the ring to propose you last week and what I got to hear the moment I kept my feet on NY this morning? That you are to be married? I can't take this Pearl. Please, please Pearl marry me." He said kneeling down on the floor and it broke my heart to see him like this, so vulnerable.

"You know I can't. Just go away. Anyone can come here at any moment." I said and sat down in front him, trying my best to make him understand.

"Do you love him?" He asked, looking into my eyes. His eyes were red and tears were rolling down from them.

"I do." I lied but I had no other way to make him go.

"There is no chance for us?"

"There is no us." I said looking down.

"I'm sorry then." He lowered his head in shame.

"Why?" I asked, my voice sounded out of breathe even in my ears.

"For.... For kissing you like that." He stuttered and my heart clenched for him.

"It was my first kiss you know? I was waiting for Ryan to take that." I was ashamed for making him more guilty. But I had to tell that to someone. I knew it was selfish of me to do that to him but I couldn't control myself.

"I... I am really sorry. I wasn't in my right mind. I don't know what came into me. I will go faraway from here and you won't have to see my face again. I will...." He started crying hard before he could complete.

"Hey, it's OK. I understand and it was selfish of me to tell you that. You don't have to go anywhere. Please stay." I tried coaxing him with my words though I know it would have gone in vain.

"I can't Pearl. I have to do this for me. If I stay here, everyday I have to see you with him. That would be so hard for me." Saying that he stood up.

"I know. But still..."

"Don't ask me to do something that will hurt me in return. I have to go, even if it is for a while." He wiped his tears away and gave me a small smile. I never wanted to see him like that. So, I gave up and accepted what he wanted to do.

"Okay. If that's what you want, I won't stop you. But please promise me that you will come back. This is your city Nathan. You can't leave it forever. One thing more, though I don't love you, I care for you deeply. So please come back whenever you are ready." I requested as I stood up also.

"I know Pearl that you care for me and I thought that was your love for me. Well, that was in the past. Now, there is no misunderstanding. And I will come back. So don't worry." He looked at me and his face had softened. "If Ryan gives you a hard time then don't forget to tell me and I'll come to take you with me. It doesn't matter you want that or not."

I smiled on that. "I won't forget to tell you."

"Till then bye, Pearl. Take care of yourself." He said with a smile and went to the balcony's door.

"I will and you take care of yourself also. And remember, I care for you may be more than Ryan. If you had proposed me before I would have accepted that. But today is my wedding day and my family will be hurt if I do something like that. Though, I told you before that I love...." Nathan stopped me, nodding his head.

"I know you don't love him." I looked at him with surprise evident on my face. "No need to be surprised. I am psychiatrist after all and I can see that you don't have the spark in your eyes that a bride should have. But I also know that you can't marry me even if you want and it's not your fault. It is my fault that I'm too late." His eyes were watery but he still smiled at me. The sight made me hug him.

"Thanks Nathan, for understanding. I hope I will see you soon." I said pulling away.

"I hope so too my princess. Always remember that you are my princess. It doesn't matter that I wanted to make you my queen. What matter is, you will be my princess and if you need anything then I'll be there for you, forever." He kissed me on my forehead and with that he left the room.

"Bye Nathan, bye my Prince." I whispered to myself.

Still in flashback:

I felt everything around me is a lie. I don't want to marry Ryan. I want to just forget everything and go with my prince, Nathan. From the second I saw him all I wanted to do is to be with him, to be loved by him. Now when he came to me and confessed his love, I couldn't go with him. I am chained with daughter duties and I have to act like a heiress.

People thinks I am so lucky to born in riches and I am going to marry the most eligible bachelor. But believe me, I am feeling myself is the most unlucky specimen in the world.

If I wasn't born as Pearl Bennett I could be with the one I want. But I can't do that. It will bring shame to my family, media will make their life hell. You can say I am being dramatic. These things only happen in films and I am trying to act like a lead role. Then let me tell you, you're wrong. Let's think that I went with him. What will happen next? Will be I happy?

No, I won't. In every step people will taunt me and also Nathan. Will he love me after all this? Even if he does, for how long? One day he will blame me for everything. There will be no happiness. My family will hate me.

Does all of these worth to be with him? No, it doesn't. Yeah, I have feelings for him but I don't love him. But I am feeling like hell.

"Pearl, are you okay? Open the door." I heard Louisa's panicked voice along with the sound of knocking.

I looked at the mirror and stare at my image. I look like hell. I quickly wiped my tears and gave a little touch up and wore my veil. I cleared my voice. "Yeah, just give me one minute."

"OK, we'll be right here."

I hid my face with the veil and opened the door.

"Ryan is waiting there. You're late." Sofia crossed her hand and looked at me like I murdered someone.

"Let him."

"What?"

"Nothing. Let's go."

End of flashback

"Now, you may kiss the bride." The priest said to Ryan. I realized I zoned out whole the time of our wedding. I said my vow in trance. Oh god what he will think if he knows.

But I don't want to be kissed. I'm not ready now.

He came closed to me and lifted my veil. His eyes fixed on my lips and his brows furrowed. He looked really angry. Did he came to know I was kissed a few minutes back? Are my lips that swollen?

He cupped my face and I shut my eyes. But I didn't feel anything on my lips because he kissed on my forehead. All clapped, Louisa nudged me on my back and whispered that he is so cute or something like that but I couldn't form it properly as my head is jammed with different thoughts. I sighed a relief as he didn't kiss on my lips.

Now time for reception. Meanwhile I should get together myself or the others will doubt on my suspicious behavior. God knows what he had decided for me.

Nathan is my past and I have to make a bridge and get over it. I am now Mrs. Pearl Anderson. I won't cheat on my husband even by remembering him. Sure it will be hard. But I am not weak like those melodramatic girls who can't face the reality with a smiling face. No more zoning out. I will be myself tonight.

Now smile Pearl.

Well done. Keep smiling.

"Congrats Mr. And Mrs. Anderson." Mr. Adams wished us. He is an oil tycoon and friends of our dads.

Mrs. Anderson. This name sounds so alienatic. (Is that even a word? I guess not.)

A few hours and my life changed drastically. I am now Mrs. Anderson, not Miss Bennett. I changed my surname for him though I don't love him. Will he do that? Will he become Mr. Bennett for me?

No, he won't. It will sound funny to many people. But why do girls have to do this? Society....

"Thanks Mr. Adam, for coming here." Ryan smiled politely at him and I just gave him a nod with a fake smile.

Well I am faking a smile for hours. Now it is almost hurting. How many people they invited? This is ridiculous.

"I can't stand anymore Ryan. My feet are aching?" I whispered to him.

"Oh really? You should've wore 8 inch then you would've been fine." The devil gave me his signature smirk.

"You don't have to pull my legs you know?"

"Then what should I pull?" He said seductively and I blushed.

Oh why am I blushing?

"May be your hair." I replied keeping my voice stern as possible as I can.

"Just shut up. No need to be friendly with me." He muttered.

Well isn't he a bipolar? One moment he is flirting and next he slaps me with his words. Tada.

"I don't want to be friendly with a radish like you." I retorted. Huh as if I care.

He doesn't know I can be a real bitch. I am not those girls from romance novels who get scared if her husband scolds him or talks rudely.

"Radish and me?" His eyes became saucers. It does suit him. Note the sarcasm here.

"Oh you are blind also? Or you have concussion? Are you seeing things? God where is uncle Rob? We have to take you to hospital." I pretended to be concerned.

"What are you blabbering?"

"Now you are having amnesia also. Lemme remind you. I was calling you radish. You saw someone beside you and got confused that whom was I calling radish. There was no one beside you I promise. It was you who is a radish." You started this, now take what I give you.

"Whatever. Who argues with a blabbermouth?" He sighed helplessly.

"Right. I'm that. Still, I have a mouth to blabber. You always behave like someone stapled your mouth and you are having a great pain to talk."

He opened his mouth to reply then closed again. Can't get a proper reply dear Ryan? Deal with this.

"There is no use to talk to you." He shook his head in frustration.

"Yeah yeah." I gave him a cheeky smile.

He fumed in anger and looked away from me.

As I said, no one can get away without getting a good reply from me when he himself started it. I am a bitch when I am attacked. Like me or not your wish.

He thought I will be always prim and proper. No I won't. That was really fun to irritate him.

This is going to be a long night.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Pearl's POV :

Who thought me as in Pearl Bennett oops Pearl Anderson will be seating in Ryan's room fidgeting?

OK, I never ever thought I would be nervous on our nuptial night.

Our nuptial night.

Sounds so dreamy.

Dreamy?

Pearl, you are insane.

Whoa, I am losing it totally. Who talks with herself?

You. My inner self mocked me.

Oh, not again. I won't talk to myself. Huh.

Where is he? Isn't he going to come? Should I change my clothes? Should I fall asleep? What people does on their first night?

Please someone tell me. Its my first marriage for god sake.

Yeah, I saw it on TV drama. But in those, there is always a problem between the heroheroine. They end up sleeping in different rooms. I am not from any drama. So it's not going to happen to me.

I think I should call someone to know what should I do.

But whom? Claudia? She is my cousin, newly married.

She can help me.

No.

She and her husband just eww. They are always sucking each other's face.

Louisa? Ashley? But they aren't married.

Khalil? He married last year. But he would feel uncomfortable.

Kara? Well it will be embarrassing to talk to her.

Mother? She is married, right? Oh why I am asking? Obviously she is.

I can call her. She helped me when I got my first period. She can help me in my first night also.

Feeling relieved I grabbed my phone from the nightstand beside the bed. But the moment I was going to tap the call, the door jerked open.

There standing, the Greek God himself. I can't help but keep staring at him.

"Like what you see? Click a photo, that will last longer." He gave me smirk which helped me to stop my ogling.

So embarrassing.

"That was the most cliché line I ever heard."

"So you drool over many men?" He furrowed his brows.

"No, I heard that line in many movies." I snapped.

"Well good for you." He said as he started unbuttoning his shirt.

"What are you doing?" Ok I don't stutter in these situation like those girls in novels. Why will I? This won't be the first time I will see someone half naked. Hey, don't imagine something naughty. I saw them on TV or movies. I am still a virgin and I love my virginity. I will only give it to the man I will love.

"Changing my clothes." He said as a matter of fact.

"No shit Sherlock. If you can't remember, let me remind you have a walk in closet. You should change there." I gifted him my best glare.

"OK if you can't remember, this is my room." He said emphasizing every word.

"From today this mine too." I said crossing my hands over my chest.

"No, this was, is and will be my room. Only mine."

Is he a child? How would he manage to run Anderson & Co. one day?

"Please remind me tomorrow to tell uncle Rob that you still a child and you shouldn't be the CEO anytime soon." I mocked him trying to not show my nervousness.

"Yeah how can I forget you are the person who decides what will happen to me on behalf of my father? He is just a pawn of you, isn't he?" He gave me an evil smirk.

"What do you mean?" I really don't know what he is saying.

"Oh you don't know what I mean?" He cocked his one brow up.

"No." I winced at his tone.

"OK long story in short I didn't have any wish to marry you, but I had to."

"But why?" I mean if he didn't wanted to marry me. He could just tell my parents or me before. There would've been a chance for me and Nathan.

Oh shut up Pearl. He is your past. Get over.

My inner self scolded.

"I married you just for the CEO position. Don't know what spell your family do on my father. He blackmailed me to marry you. When he hands over me the business I will give you divorce." Ryan gives me a smirk.

What? He didn't just said that.

He did.

But why?

I wasn't even wanting to marry him.

"If you think that low of me and my family, why did you spoiled my life by marrying me?" I cried out loud. Yeah I am not feeling embarrassed to cry in front of him like those heroine in sappy romantic novels. I am just a normal girl for God sake.

"Trust me I don't even wanna touch you, but its not like you don't whore around. Anyway, that's not my business. You are free to do anything but as you know we have to act as a couple in front of others. It's benefiting for both of us. So, be prepared for your most wanted life, Mrs. Anderson. Congratulations for your marriage." Saying that he turned and left the room.

It is not the life I imagined. It's not a fairytale. This house is feeling like a hell to me. I have to escape from this house and marriage. But how?

My all dreams were crushed by his few words. He will never know how much I was hurt. He has no right to speak with me like that.

He said I whore around. I am still a virgin and he thought I am a whore. Isn't it just wonderful?

Hell, I just got my first kiss today. I would rather say that it was stolen.

And I am a whore?

A slut?

A prostitute?

A harlot?

A strumpet?

Is there anything else that I am but I didn't know?

Tell me I should know.

But whatever I may be, in his eyes, today, he just lost all the respect (if there was any) from my heart.

May be I will forgive him one day but I won't ever forget it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Pearl's POV :

His Highness, I mean Ryan Anderson wants me to act with him like I am so happy with this marriage which BTW am not. But what he wants will never happen. I won't ever act. What he thinks of me? Oh, how can I forget? He thinks I am a whore. OK, now this whore will show you how many types of bitch there can be. Just wait.

I looked at myself at the mirror of the attached bathroom of our bedroom. Our bedroom? Sounds so pathetic. The girl staring at me can be anyone but me. Her eyes are red and swollen, hairs are messy and her nose has gone scarlet. What a day it was for you poor girl!

Enough of acting like a weak, pathetic girl. I can do better than this. I have to sort all my shits and be strong. Its showtime baby.

Ryan's POV:

I know what I told her was really rude. But she deserved this. What did she think? I won't find out that she was kissing someone before our marriage? I'm not that stupid. I found out it seeing her swollen lips.

You can say that lips can be swollen for many reasons but lemme tell you I am hell lot more experienced to know what kind of swollen it was.

She couldn't wait to do that some other time? She had to do it just before our marriage? Awesome! Don't know what else she did. Even thinking about it creeps me out. There is no other word but whore is perfect for her.

And on top of it, she acts like the perfect angel there ever can be. That whore.

She got me all riled up. I need to calm down and only one person can relax me in this situation, Natalie.

"Hello, I am coming over. Will that be a problem?" I asked her through my phone.

"No, how can it be a problem, silly? Come, I am already missing you here." My angel replied with a melodical voice.

"I will be there in ten." Saying that I hang up.

I will be celebrating my nuptial night the way other does but the only difference will be that I will spend the night with my girlfriend, not my wife.

Pearl's POV:

I felt something warm on my cheek as I woke up from my sleep but didn't feel like to open my eyes. Why do we have to wake up early in the morning? Can't we wake up at noon or evening? I guess not.

I opened my eyes slightly only to find that the window is open and sun rays are coming through it. It would be a beautiful scene if it was in some movie. But believe me on this, it is really irritating. Why do the sun rise from east? I could've got some more sleep. Even God doesn't like me. Oh, please somebody cut me some slack off.

I grabbed my phone to see what time is it. It is only 8 in the morning. There is no sign of Ryan being in this room. But there is a message from him on my phone.

Ryan: Be ready before 11. We are going on our honeymoon.

Honeymoon? Is he kidding me? Where did he find the guts to tell me what to do or not? I'm not going anywhere with him. I have to go somewhere so that he can't find me.

But the million dollar question is, where?

I can't go to Papa's. My friends are out of question, same goes to my siblings and cousins. He knows Khalil. Then where?

I will decide that later, first I have to get out of here.

I took a quick shower and changed into a pair of skinny denim along with a floral top. For footwear I wore my sneakers. I completed my look by tying my hairs in high ponytail, a little bit of mascara, eyeliner and pink lip gloss. I grabbed my Porsche's keys, phone and purse. I quickly packed my backpack with some casual clothes, under wears and other necessary things as I will be gone for twothree days. Now, I am ready to leave this penthouse.

Enjoy your surprise, Ryan Anderson.

Ryan's POV:

"Tony, ask Pearl to come out. We are leaving." I asked my main servant, Tony, reaching the penthouse.

"Sir, she is not here." He replied looking down.

"What do you mean by she isn't here?" I snapped at him. "When will she comeback? Did she told you before leaving?"

'Ssir, ma'am ddidn't told me aanything but" He stuttered and stopped without completing.

"But?" I cocked my brows up.

"Tthere was a bbackpack with her."

I started pulling my perfectly gelled hair being totally frustrated.

"When did she went out?"

"Around 9 am."

"Hmm. You can go now."

I sat down on the couch. Knowing her she won't go anywhere where I can find her, or would she? Did she went to her or my father to complain about me? What if she didn't? How can I ask them without making them curious?

Oh god, this girl.

Once I get my hand on her, I will show her that what you get after messing with an Anderson.

Pearl's POV:

I am roaming around the New York city for two hours now, still not finding a place to go. I suddenly realized that I have no place to go where he can't find me. That left me with one choice. I have to go to a small hotel. Cause if I go to a five star then he can easily track me down. I am so clever, right? I know, I know, you don't have to tell me.

There is no way I am going back to his place without teaching him a proper lesson.

I began to look around as much as I can while driving my car to find a hotel. After a few minutes, a signboard caught my attention.

"The Nightingale Motel"

I parked my car in front of it. I think it is going to be my home for a few days. Don't you think so?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ryan's POV:

It has been five hours since I sat here, in my bedroom not able to decide what to do. I have tried several times to get her through her phone, but the line is dead. But I know I can't simply sit here and hope that she will come back by herself.

Is she stupid? Doesn't she know what will happen if the paparazzi get a hold of this?

I have to go out and meet my personal detective, Davis Thompson. I think he can help me with this.

I took out my phone and called him at the same time I grabbed my Audi's key.

"Hello, Mr. Anderson." He said as he received my call after the second beep.

"Hello. I need a help." Talking to him I started to walk to my garage.

"Tell me, how can I help you?"

"You have to find someone without letting her know."

"Who?" I can feel that his brows are now furrowed in confusion.

"Pearl. She" I didn't complete as something about the garage caught my attention.

"She?"

"Scratch that. I am giving you the number of a car. Find it soon and call me. Note it down the number is "

"OK, I will let you know about it soon enough. Bye."

"Bye." I hanged up.

I thought you are much clever than that. Really Pearl? You took your car with you? Even a crazy person can do better than that. Oh, am not complaining. You just made it easier for me to find you. Stupid girl.

With these thoughts my lips formed in a smirk.

Pearl's POV:

I threw my backpack on the bed as soon as I entered the room I had booked.

"Room, sweet room." I exhaled, taking a look of the interior. It's the half of my bedroom and less attractive. But this will do for the next few hours or at the most one day if he is clever enough.

Thinking why? Oh, come on, I hope you don't think that I am a big fool to bring my car with me when I am trying to hide.

Yeah, got it right. I brought it with me to give him something to find me. I know I have to go back but I can't do that on my own. I have reputation to keep.

By doing this, he can find me with much effort and he have to kiss my ass to take me back with him.

I am so smart, aren't I?

Now I can relax for the rest of the time. If I'm not wrong, I will be having my supper at his house. For lunch, I can hit the McDonald.

What? Can't the rich have local fast food? Nonsense.

I will be waiting for you, Mr. Ryan Anderson.

Ryan's POV:

"Mr. Anderson, good news. I have found the car. It is parked in front of a motel called "the Nightingale's motel" and here is the address." Davis informed me as he handed me a piece of paper with a address written on it.

"Thanks, Davis. Here is your check." I said giving him his payment.

"That was my job, Mr. Anderson. I will take your leave then."

I nodded in reply.

I found you spoiled brat. I will teach you a lesson for pulling this act as soon as I get the chance. That is my promise to you.

I reached the said address half an hour later. I entered the motel and went to the reception to know if she is here. She should be here, cause I saw her car in the parking lot.

"Is someone called Pearl Anderson is here?" I asked the receptionist.

She looked at me and blinked her eyes. Surely she is awestruck by my looks but she didn't looked like the flirty types.

"Uh. I can't give you any information of our guests, Sir." She said politely.

"She is my wife." I said desperately. I must say it feels good to call her my wife.

Ryan, what is this? Stop being ridiculous. It doesn't feel good or anything.

"Still, I can't give you any information. I am sorry."

I sighed feeling helpless. "Can you call her and tell her that her husband is looking for her?"

I don't think Pearl will want to see me if she knows it is me. But I have no other way but forcing. I have to take this chance.

I hope she won't create a scene here and will meet me without any drama.

But knowing Pearl, she can't live without dramas.

Miss drama Queen.

Pearl's POV:

The telephone kept on the bedside table started to ring. I reached for it to know what they want to tell me. Its not like I can't guess.

"Yes?" I said promptly, receiving the call.

"Ma'am, someone called Ryan Anderson is looking for you. He said he is your husband. Should I give him your room number or any kind of information?" The lady who called said to me.

"Can you give me his description?" I said in order to make the conversation long and make him wait more.

"Umm... He is what we call Greek God, his height is more than six feet, dark brown hair, emerald green eyes and he is wearing a dark blue suit which will cost more than my two months salary." She replied with a little bit stuttering, I can tell that she is nervous.

What to say? Ryan have that affect on women.

"Oh, I think he is telling the truth. Send him to my room. If we don't come out the room in ten minutes, call the police. You don't know I have so many crazy admirers." I said dramatically.

"Huh? Sure ma'am. Take care." Her voice was full with concern.

"Thanks." I said hanging up.

I think I will have late lunch at his home not supper. He is fast.

I am really impressed. Well done Ryan Anderson or whoever worked for you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Pearl's POV:

I looked or should I say glared at the man standing and growling in front of me. No need to guess who is it. Cause it is obviously my loving husband. You can note the sarcasm here if you feel like to.

"Why did you pulled that stunt?" Ryan literally yelled at me.

"Which stunt? Last time I checked I was a fashion designer not a stuntman. Oh sorry not a stuntwoman." I gave him the best evil smirk I could manage.

"Just shut up. Why did you ran away?"

I didn't gave him any reply.

"Why you aren't talking? Answer me." His face was red because he felt so shy to talk with me. OK I'm kidding. It was red because he was beyond angry.

He was answered with my silence.

"Cat caught your tongue or what?"

I looked at anywhere but him.

He cupped my face roughly and looked at my eyes making me gasp. We were so close that if anyone of us moved even slightly our lips will touch. Thinking why will that happen if he is taller than me by 67 inches? Cause he lowered his head and I was looking upward guys. You will say it's so cliché. Believe me you don't have to, I know better.

"Giving me the cold shoulder?" He whispered and I nod in a no as his sudden change of tone caught me surprised.

"Then why you aren't answering any of my questions?"

"You told me to shut up." I pouted.

"Oh I was just angry that time and you were talking bullshit." He said caressing my cheek with his thumbs. A shiver ran through my spine. The butterflies in my stomach went wild and my eyes widened.

But as soon as I heard his last word, I frowned. I was speaking bullshit? I suddenly noticed our position and moved back from him and he found his watch very interesting.

Talking of awkward.

"Don't ever touch me." I tried to say sternly. Keyword tried. Because I wasn't still over the situation we're in a few seconds back.

He looked nervous but it didn't last long as his lips formed in a smirk. "Oh, is that so? You're clearly enjoying that."

"I wasn't." I denied but I know he didn't believe me as I can feel all blood of my body gathering on my cheeks.

See? Even my body doesn't like me. Such a betrayer. Huh.

"You know you're Darling." He said the last part mockingly. "Now let's go. I don't have time to listen to your stupid talk."

I frowned at him. "Am not going anywhere with you."

"Listen here Pearl, you already wasted much of my precious time. I don't know how long I can remain calm. So don't test my patience." Saying that he closed his eyes for a moment, probably to control his anger.

Huh, like I care.

"You listen to me, I don't think I will ever forgive you for what you said to me last night. Even if I did I won't forget the words you said to me. So, I can't go with you, my self respect won't let me when I know you don't have even an ounce of respect for me." I looked at straight into his eyes confidently.

"Respect? Are you kidding me? You are such a" He started to say but was interrupted by me.

"Don't you dare to complete that." I growled like a wolf.

"So you know what you are? No wonder I said that to you. You're really a" He couldn't complete the sentence again but this time that happened because I slapped him.

Yeah, I slapped him. I couldn't tolerate that word again.

He rubbed the cheek on which I slapped. I know I couldn't hurt him physically but his ego was deeply hurt.

"You little" Again he was interrupted cause the room's phone rang.

I went near it and received the call. "Hello."

"Ma'am are you OK? Should I call the police as you said?" A very concerned voice came through the phone.

"No need to bother." I said as calmly as I could and eyed him and saw he is trying to calm down. "The person here is actually my husband. You don't have to call the police."

"OK ma'am. Take care. Call us if you need anything." The lady whose name I still don't know said.

"Sure. Thanks." I said hanging up.

"You said them to call the police?" He yelled at me.

"Yes, I did." I said nonchalantly.

"Why?"

"That's none of your concern. Now get out of my room before I tell them to call the police." I averted my eyes from him and took out a nail polish from my bag.

"Who do you think you are? Who gave you the right to slap me? Do you know what can I do to you?" He looked like he is about to jump on me to rip me apart.

"Who gave you the right to call me names? And even you know if you lay a finger on me you will be facing your worst nightmare." I said back, smirking.

"I know. You will go to your dad to complain. Such a pussy.' He scoffed.

"I will. But not to my dad but yours." His eyes widened at my words.

"You won't dare."

"Try me." I sing sang. "What happened to our brave Ryan? Scared of daddy ?"

"Pearl just stop. This is between you and me. No need to pull family in this." He said calmly but nervousness was clear on him.

I placed the nail polish on the table beside me and walked to him. "This is not between you and me. I had nothing to do about your life. You pulled me in this because you wanted your CEO position so much that you didn't think twice before making my life hell."

"You were the reason behind this. You and your family manipulated my dad and he made me marry you." He said frustratedly.

"I and my family didn't manipulate your father. Why were you silent all those time when we were engaged? As long as I can remember we were engaged for more than 15 years. You could've told me. I would've talk to both of our families if you didn't have the guts to do so." I said poking his chest.

"I couldn't. I would've lost everything, my family, my property everything." He hold my hands with his but not roughly.

"You wouldn't. If I said I don't want to marry you then they could do nothing. It was my choice." I said pulling out my hands from his grasp.

"My dad would've doubted." He rubbed his face with both of his hand.

"Are you hearing yourself? You're just impossible." I gritted my teeth.

"I know it sounds pathetic but I had no other way." He let out a frustrated breath.

"You had but you didn't try them. I wish you did, we both would've been in a better position." I moved away from him and sat on my bed.

"I fucked up real bad, hmm?" He said running his fingers through his hair.

"Yeah, you did." I smiled sarcastically.

"Please, let's go home." He said kneeling down in front of me.

"That's not my home, Ryan." I said sadly and closed my eyes.

"That is. You are my wife, Pearl and my home is your home." He said softly rubbing his thumb on my hand.

His words touched my heart but I know better than taking his words seriously.

"I won't be your wife for too long. After some time we will be back to the place we were. But I don't think my life will be the same. May be I will lose him by that time." A lone tear rolled down my cheek.

"Who?" Ryan frowned.

"Nathan."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~