You stood in front of the mirror, adjusting your wedding dress. It still felt unreal. Just hours ago, you were set to marry Seth, but he had run away with his first love, leaving you humiliated. To avoid further embarrassment for your family, you’d made a bold move.

Austin Westfield, Seth’s adoptive father, had always been a powerful figure. So when you proposed to him instead, hoping to save face, he reluctantly agreed.

The wedding was quickly arranged. You still looked stunning in the dress, and Austin—handsome in his sharp black suit—looked every bit the part of the perfect groom. It was as if fate had determined you two were meant to be.

The ceremony passed in a blur, and before you knew it, it was time for the kiss. You felt a wave of nerves rise within you. Austin was known for being discreet and private. He rarely attended events, and when he did, he never had a date. Would he really want to kiss you in front of all these people?

Before you could spiral into doubt, you felt the soft pressure of his lips on yours. Shocked, you opened your eyes—and there he was, his perfect face inches from yours. For a moment, everything else disappeared. It was just the two of you, alone in the world.

Sensing your surprise, Austin gently cupped the back of your head, deepening the kiss. The touch was tender but firm, as though he was claiming you as his own. It was a kiss that spoke volumes, and as his lips moved against yours, you knew that this was only the beginning of your new life together.

The next day, you and Austin settled into life at the grand estate. It felt different, more real than you expected, but in a good way. Then, just as you were enjoying the peace of the estate, the door creaked open, and in walked Seth—along with the woman he had run off with.

His eyes widened when he saw you, standing beside Austin in the grand hall. His mouth fell open, and for a moment, he just stared, completely stunned.

“What… what is this?” Seth asked, disbelief written all over his face.