Chapter 1

It's wrong. It's forbidden. It's taboo.

The man I married loves another, but I'm even worse, because I want his father.

Tiptoeing around the house just to be with him is sinful.

But, I don't see anything wrong with that, because what we have is beautiful.

_________________________________________

Charlotte is my greatest temptation, but she also just might be my salvation.

She might be Sebastian's wife, but really, she's was always meant to be mine.

Chapter 1

Sebastian:

The sound of the vase crashing reverberates in my ears. My hand feels numb from hefting it and subsequently throwing it against the wall.

"I told you I love Adeline! How the fuck could you do this?"

"Watch your tone when you talk to me, boy."

"I. Am. Not. A. Boy." I seethe.

"Then stop acting like one."

"I'm not marrying some random bitch." The words come out through gritted teeth.

"You will, and mind that language." He says calmly, with that fucking stoic face he never changes.

I cross my arms across my chest and smirk.

"I will do no such thing."

He pulls out a sheet of paper from his thick, black folder and slides it over to me with one manicured fingernail. He makes a point to get a manicure every week.

I grab the sheet and skim over the words. When I'm done, I crumple it in my fist and try to turn his table over. Stupid move on my part. The thing is made of Lignum Vitae.

"When you're done embarrassing yourself, you're free to leave my office."

"Threatening my inheritance is a low blow, even for you. No wonder Mom left you."

The silence rings in my ears as his eyes flash with something imperceptible.

"Get out of my office."

With my heart crashing against my chest, I slam his office door shut. I know the aftermath will be bad because I've just stepped on a land mine.

Fucking hell.

______________________________________

I park my Bentley in front of Adeline's building and go straight to her penthouse, without greeting the doorman, Steve, like I usually do.

I knock and wait for her to open. It takes a minute, but her familiar face greets me. Minimal make-up, but bold, red lipstick. My favorite.

She has a matching, short, silky red robe on that's slipping off one of her shoulders.

My cock hardens. It's then I notice her eyes. They're rimmed red.

"Baby, don't cry."

I step inside and hug her to my chest. She smells like Vodka. I hear a small sniffle.

"Daddy's marrying me off to someone."

"Fuck. My Dad is doing the same."

She sobs harder and I regret telling her. I should have waited.

"Sebastian, I can't do this. I can't live without you."

I slide my fingers through her shiny blonde hair.

"Shh. It's going to be okay. I'll find a way."

"Do you know who your Dad arranged for you to marry?"

Another sniffle. "Lance Harrington."

"Shit Addy. Harrington?"

I take her face in my hands and look down at her.

"Listen to me baby. Harrington is a weasel. Easy to manipulate. You can mold him in no time."

She furrows her perfectly plucked brows.

"What?"

"What I mean to say is, neither of us can get out of these marriages. I say we make the best out of it. Gain Lance's trust, manipulate him, mold him to your liking. We'll still be able to continue our relationship."

She wipes her eyes, determination set in them.

"What about you?"

"I'll do the same. She'll wish she never married me."

"Who is she?"

"I don't know yet, but I'll find out."

I look at her closer and she turns her face away from me.

"Adeline. Show me." My voice comes out stern.

"Don't order me around Seb."

"Please." I say through clenched teeth.

She finally turns to me again, but her gaze won't meet mine.

I see the fine, white particles in her nose.

"What the fuck Adeline? I thought you got rid of it all?"

"I was stressed Seb." She whines. It grates on my ears.

"You know I hate it when you lie Adeline."

"Well, what was I supposed to do? It was just a small line."

"Since when have you started using again?"

"This is the first time in three months. Believe me."

I nod. "I do. But please, just tell me the truth from next time."

"Fine." She rolls her eyes.

"Come on. I believe we have something to do."

I pick her up and carry her to the bedroom, fucking her into the night.

It's where I stay till then next morning p. I'm not in the mood to be in the same house as that selfish bastard.

______________________________________

The next morning, I park my car in front of my house, which is more like a mansion, if anything.

He's given me riches, wealth, and power, but he forgot to give me the most important thing. My heart. Neither do I have my mother, nor the woman I love.

My mother refuses to step foot into this house. I don't know if it's her own decision, or someone is barricading her.

The worst part is, that I can only meet her for a few hours at a time. Again, the money is always a fucking noose around my neck. Sometimes, I contemplate cutting it off, but that would be foolish of me.

Money makes the world spin and you're nothing without it. The more you have of it, the more you have of everything else.

Anthony Crosswalk, my father, is richer than God.

Crosswalk Industries is a Fortune 500 company and it's his 'baby'.

I freeze as I step through the threshold.

"Meet your future wife son. Charlotte Daymond."

I shouldn't have come back here so soon. My father ignores my death glare and simply looks at his gold Rolex watch. I gave it to him for his 42nd birthday, which was a few months ago.

"Quick introductions would be pleasant Sebastian. Some people have places to be."

I grit my teeth and direct my glare on the Daymond girl. Realistically, I know she doesn't deserve it. But, she could have done something, anything, to get out of this marriage.

I have to say, my father landed himself quite a deal. Daymond Diamonds is known for its exquisite diamonds all over America.

The fact that Charles Daymond has a daughter about my age is just sour luck.

I'm surprised he's not marrying me off to some old hag. He'd go through any length just to elevate himself.

"Sebastian Crosswalk, but I'm sure you already know that. I don't care who you are and I don't want to know either. Farewell."

I go to the climb the stairs.

"Sebastian, come back down here." His voice increases a few octaves, but I ignore it and continue climbing up the stairs.

Chapter 2

Charlotte:

I see something flash through Anthony Crosswalk's eyes as his son ignores him.

I look away when he glances down at me. Goosebumps rise on my skin as I feel his gaze on me. He is an intimidating man.

"Excuse him. He's not used to not getting what he wants."

I appreciate his honesty, despite his words.

"It's alright Mr. Crosswalk. If he loves someone else, why not get married to her?"

"I'm sure you of all people know how our world works, Ms. Daymond. We don't marry for love. It is a mere abstract concept. Marriage is just a tactful strategy to further improve our businesses."

I shake my head vehemently, completely at odds with his words, but I know it's useless arguing with men of his power. Men like my father. They're thick headed and refuse to listen to what the other person has to say. If Sebastian's childhood was anything like mine, then I feel sorry for him.

Everyone knows about Anthony Crosswalk and his ruthless reputation. I could guess having him as a father is not an easy feat, so I don't hold Sebastian's rude behavior against him.

"Well, I guess I should leave now. It was nice meeting you Mr. Crosswalk."

It wasn't a pleasure to meet you. My heart was pounding furiously the entire time and if I stay any longer, I may risk the chance of getting a heart attack.

"My intention was not for you to meet me. It was for you to meet my son. I could have closed a deal in this time."

I look down at my shoes. I can't help but think it's all my fault. Maybe I could have dressed up nicer. Put on more make-up. Made an effort. But, at the same time, he could have told his son to put some effort too.

"I should go now." I inform him and abruptly take my leave.

"Franco." I smile at my driver.

"Where to, Ms. Daymond?"

"Let's go to the boutique."

"Very well."

We exit the gates of the Crosswalk household and enter the familiar traffic of New York.

My wedding boutique, Charlotte's Secrets, located in SoHo, attracts all brides. It's all about the location, after all. We're a boutique and wedding planning combined.

I thank Franco and exit the car. I take a moment to appreciate the chic, yet rustic building. My life's work. With a bright smile on my face, I step inside, and the air conditioning slaps me in the face, cooling my heated skin.

"Good morning Ms. Charlotte."

"Just Charlotte is fine Harper. Any new customers?"

I hear her click away on the keyboard.

"Two actually. One is supposed to meet you in the afternoon. Precisely at three o'clock."

"Perfect. I'll be in my office if you need me for anything."

She nods and I go into my office cabin at the back. Dropping my handbag on the loveseat, I sit down in my chair and start up my computer.

Just as I'm about to open our accounts, I get a call from father dearest.

I pick up on the first ring because God forbid, Charles Daymond even wait a second.

"Charlotte." His stern voice rings out.

"Father." I greet softly.

"Have you met Sebastian Crosswalk?"

"More like his father."

"Anthony?"

"Yes, father. Anthony Crosswalk. Look Dad, Sebastian is in love with someone else. Why do I have to marry him?" I hold my breath for his response, which I expect won't be too nice.

"Who he loves is irrelevant. Me and Anthony will both benefit from this union. We have both agreed upon it, and that is what is most important."

With a frown, I say, "Yes, Father."

"I know you're frowning. Stop that."

I let out a deep breath and focus on the conversation.

"How's Mom?"

His tone immediately changes into a soft, loving one.

"She's wonderful. Worries about you everyday. You should come visit this weekend."

His words create a pang in my chest. I miss her so much.

"I'll try my best to."

"Daymonds don't try Charlotte. They do. You are a Daymond and this is the least I expect from you."

"Yes, father. I have to go. Take care."

"The same goes to you Charlotte."

I hang up and sigh heavily, resting my chin on my palm. How is it going to be to plan my own wedding? One that I don't want. One that the groom, himself doesn't want. A wedding that, only our fathers want for us.

I shake my head of those thoughts and focus on work.

By the end of the day, I'm beat and before I go, I tell Harper to clear my schedule for the weekend.

What Father wants, Father gets.

I look down at my phone to book a flight to Arkansas. I could use Dad's private jet, but I don't think it's worth taking the jet just for one passenger.

When I step outside, I collide with someone and my phone crashes to the ground.

"Mr. Crosswalk, what are you doing here?" I ask as I bend to pick up my phone, checking for cracks.

Anthony Crosswalk looks at me through narrowed eyes. He and his son share the same bone structure. High cheekbones and a sharp jawline. Whereas his son's jaw is peppered with stubble, Anthony has a neatly trimmed beard.

"I came to see how my future daughter-in-law's business looks like. Maybe I'd even buy it if I like it well enough."

Rare anger bubbles in my chest at his words, so with the sweetest smile on my face, I say,

"I'm sorry Mr. Crosswalk, but it's not for sale."

I see his lips quirk up in the faintest of smiles, before it's gone. It makes me wonder if it was just my imagination.

"Where are my manners? Come. I'll show you around."

So, I make introductions between him and Harper and show him around. The wedding dress section, the trial section, my office, and the brainstorming section. It's like a sun room really, with glass walls, a high vaulted ceiling, plants and warm colored lights.

By the time I'm done showing him around, I don't know whether he's impressed or not.

His sharp ringtone cuts through my thoughts. He picks it up on the second ring and listens to what the other person says.

"What do you mean?"

I watch different emotions flit across his face. Disbelief, hurt, disappointment, and finally anger.

"I trusted you with this, and you sabotage me for what? All because I won't allow you to marry a no good whore?"

Ah, so that must be his son. Whatever Sebastian says makes Anthony's eyes flare.

"Sebastian!" He shouts his name with such high volume, that I flinch and a lock of his black hair falls on his forehead, that, which had been previously neatly gelled back.

He catches my flinch through his peripheral vision and places his hand on top of my head. His gesture is shocking, because I can only assume he's trying to reassure me.

When he ends the call, he removes his hand from my head and brushes the lock of hair away from his forehead.

"Excuse me. I'll have to go now."

My tongue is too twisted to form any words, so I just nod and watch him walk to his car, get into the driver's side, and drive off.

Chapter 3

Anthony:

"Charlotte's parents have invited us to lunch at their place. Clear your schedule for the weekend."

He crosses his arms over his chest, an arrogant look on his face. When he does that, all I can see is Della, and I prefer not to remember her.

"Who said I'm going?"

"Sebastian. Don't make this harder than it has to be."

"I'm not going. You can drag me, but I don't think you'd succeed."

I may be taller than my son, but he's buffer.

I can't threaten his inheritance for every miniscule thing. That is the one card I have already used.

"Why don't you get to know Charlotte? She's smart and successful." I don't say that she's beautiful, since it may not be age appropriate of me.

I only want the best for Sebastian.

"But she's not Adeline." He counters and I almost lose it.

"So you want Charlotte to be a whore?"

He smacks the wall in anger, looking like the spitting image of me. Every time I look at myself in my bathroom mirror at night. The same anger and hatred in his eyes.

"She. Is. Not. A. Whore." He seethes and I decide to calm myself down first. She doesn't possess a magic pussy, so I fail to understand how he's so caught up in her web.

"I don't care to chat about your wh-Adeline." I catch myself before the word whore slips out again.

"It's a request Sebastian. They want to meet their future son-in-law."

"I'm actually busy this weekend. I'll pay them a visit next weekend."

I narrow my eyes at that. "Do I have your word Sebastian?"

He rolls his eyes. "Yes, sir. I have to go."

I walk into my study about to tell Charles we won't be able to make it, but stop myself. Declining a first invitation is never good.

I dial Charles's number and wait for him to pick up. He does on the third ring.

"Anthony. You will be making it this weekend, correct?"

"Mr. Daymond, I will be making it, but unfortunately, my son has to attend a business meeting in London, so he won't be able to make it."

"That's fine, and stop with the Mr. Daymond. Call me Charles. We are to be in-laws soon, after all."

It's odd to call him Charles, considering the fact that he's a near stranger to me, but I relent.

"Alright Charles."

"How will you be arriving?"

"I'll bring my private jet."

"Would you mind bringing Charlotte with you?"

My eyebrows scrunch on their own.

"Of course not."

I hear a faint sigh.

"Thank you. She doesn't want to use my jet because she says it's a waste of fuel. She always flies commercial."

For some reason, that draws a chuckle out of me.

"It's the least I can do." He thanks me again and we hang up.

______________________________________

Charlotte:

I jolt awake when my phone rings. I run my palm down my face, realizing that I fell asleep on the couch.

I pat the couch, searching for my phone, until my palm wraps around cool metal.

"Hello?"

"Charlotte. I hope you didn't book the plane ticket yet." My Dad's voice makes me sit up on the couch.

"No Father, I was just about to." I was actually sleeping, but he doesn't need to know that. I never did get back to booking the ticket after my collision with Anthony.

"Well don't. I've invited the Crosswalks over. Sebastian will not be able to make it, but Anthony will be coming by himself in his jet. You can join him."

"Oh that's nice Dad, but it's not necessary."

"I wasn't giving you an option Charlotte."

I can literally imagine him raising his eyebrow at me.

"It's really fine Dad. I can come by myself." That sounded extremely dirty, so I correct myself.

"What I mean to say is that I can book a commercial ticket. No big deal."

"You're intimidated by Anthony, aren't you?" His tone is surprisingly mirthful. I can hear the smile in his voice.

"Of course not." I say immediately, giving myself away.

He laughs and my heart warms at that. I wish he laughed more often.

"You should get used to him baby doll. He is going to be your father-in-law and he's one of the best men I know. You know I only choose the best for you."

"But Dad, you chose his son for me." I point out the obvious.

"Of course I did silly girl. What I'm trying to tell you is that a good man will raise a good man. That's all."

"Alright Dad. When do I get ready?"

"I'm sure Anthony will text you the details."

"But he doesn't have my number."

"He's highly resourceful and influential. I'd be surprised if he didn't already have your number."

That sounds wrong on so many levels, but I let it be.

"Goodnight Charlotte."

"Goodnight Dad."

"Oh and Charlotte? Don't work yourself too much."

"Alright Dad." I smile and hang up.

I get off the couch and stretch my muscles, moaning when my shoulders pop. I'll need a good massage one of these days.

I change out of my work clothes into a comfortable oversized shirt. I reheat some macaroni in the microwave and eat it for dinner, considering I'm too tired to cook myself something. I chug down a Sprite with it. When I've finished the can, I burp loud and some of the macaroni comes back up, but I swallow it back down again.

Woah. Not doing that again. Note to self: Don't chug Sprite after eating macaroni. I clean up the dishes and double check the front door locks.

When I'm sure they're locked up nice and tight, I check my windows and once I'm satisfied, I go into my bedroom. I actually wanted a one bedroom apartment, but I decided to get a two bedroom one instead, so it would be convenient if I had any guests over. It's rarely occupied, but I clean it every week.

I switch off the lights, including the lamp, and close the curtains. I shut the closet tight and run to my bed and go under the covers, even covering my face. I don't want a ghost staring back into my eyes if I pull down my covers.

With an image of an ideal wedding dress floating through my mind, I go to sleep.

Chapter 4

Charlotte:

The next morning, I brush my teeth, take a shower and pack a bag. When I finish zipping up the bag, my phone buzzes with a text. I open it and find an address to a private airport.

I eat an apple and banana for breakfast and sling my bag over my shoulder, locking the door behind me.

Franco, being his usual punctual self, waits for me.

"Good morning Franco." I toss him an apple which he deftly catches.

"Good morning Ms. Daymond."

"Oh Franco, just call me Charlotte." I say over my shoulder as I get into the backseat of the car. He closes the door and gets behind the wheel.

"Where to Ms. Daymond?"

I sigh. "We need to go to Teterboro Airport."

He nods and starts the engine. I look through my phone to check my mail and respond to the ones that say 'Immediate response required'.

When I'm done, I have nothing else to do, so I decide to bother Franco. He's only been my driver from the past two weeks.

"Franco, are you married?"

He laughs.

"For the past 25 years miss."

I lean in between the seats.

"Well, how come you've never talked about your wife?"

"It is not professional."

"Well, what's her name?"

"Beatrice, but I call her Bea."

"She sounds lovely. Tell me more."

"We got married fresh out of high school. I had some jobs here and there and Bea is an excellent baker. We were doing quite well. Then, we had little Susanna. A few years later, Phineas came along."

"Susanna? Phineas? How come you never introduced me to them?" I'm just teasing, but he doesn't need to know that.

"Anna lives in Houston with her husband and their son. Phineas works in Ohio."

"Well, you sure must miss them. Do you visit them?"

"Twice a year. Phin takes us to live with him, and when we insist, he drops us off at Anna's. Then, we come back here, off to do our respective jobs."

I remain quiet the rest of the ride, thinking about his family. How he must miss his children and grandchild. Poor Franco.

We finally reach the airport and I thank Franco. He offers to carry my bag, but I refuse.

The security checks pass by swiftly and I board the jet, to find Anthony already seated there. I'm impressed by the simple, yet luxurious interior of the jet. It's all plush leather seats, glossy wood veneers and a beige silk carpet lining the surface.

I can either sit beside him or across from him. I don't know him well enough to sit beside him, so I choose to sit opposite to him. He's on his laptop anyway.

"Good morning Mr. Crosswalk."

He gives me a nod in acknowledgement. One would think he would tell me to stop calling him Mr. Crosswalk by now.

He hides a cough behind his palm.

"Call me Anthony."

I hide my face behind my hands.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to say that aloud."

"But you did." He removes the reading glasses perched on his nose and stares at me. I try to stay still, but I end up shifting uncomfortably.

The stewardess comes just in time. A blonde bombshell.

"Would you like anything miss?" Her voice is a bit sad and her smile seems forced.

"Do you have salted peanuts?"

"We sure do." She removes a bag of peanuts and hands them to me.

"Do you have Oreos? Because you look as delicious as an Oreo. Now all you need is some cream filling." I say in a deep voice and wiggle my brows at her.

She ends up laughing and her eyes crinkle at the corners, unlike before.

She asks Anthony if he wants anything and he just gets a water. I toss some peanuts into my mouth and take out my laptop.

"Thank you for letting me fly with you Mr. Crosswalk."

He doesn't look up at me as he says,

"You wanted to call me by my first name, yes? So, why the formality now?"

I laugh nervously.

"Well, it'll take some getting used to."

"I am going to be your future father-in-law. Get used to it faster." Rude.

"But Sebastian doesn't even want to get married to me."

"What Sebastian wants doesn't matter. He doesn't know what's best for him. You both are to be married. That's final."

I want to argue on that, but I stop myself. Whatever I say to him isn't going to change his mind.

We remain quiet for the remainder of the flight, with him doing his work and me doing mine.

We soon land and I have to practically run to catch up with his long strides.

He gets into a black SUV and I climb in after him.

The driver starts driving without Anthony needing to tell him the address.

The ride is spent in uncomfortable silence. I try to make small talk.

"So Sebastian..."

"Is on a business trip to London."

I wonder if he'll be on a business trip to Ibiza or Paris or Italy on the day of our wedding.

The car stops in front of the iron gates of my parents' home. A minute later, the gates open and I stare at the fresh green grass on either side of the driveway. Surprisingly, my father stands in front of the house when we get out of the car. He's dressed surprisingly casual, in a black Polo shirt and white shorts.

"Anthony, so nice to see you in the flesh." They shake hands while I watch in the sidelines.

"Charlotte. How have you been?" He pats my hair.

"Never better." I give him a small smile.

"Where's Mom?" I ask.

"She's been waiting for you guys all day. We're sad that Sebastian couldn't make it, but we're glad you did. Come on, let's go out into the patio. Elise is waiting there."

I place my bag against the banister on the way as we go out into the patio.

I hug my Mom as soon as I see her. Elegant as always. Brown hair in a straight Bob, white pearls around her neck, and a demure green dress covering her body.

"Anthony, a pleasure to meet you."

"Likewise Mrs. Daymond." He plants a small kiss on the back of my mother's hand, which causes her to blush.

"Elise." She corrects him.

"Come. Let's have lunch."

We all sit at the table. My parents beside each other and me, opposite to Mom with Anthony opposite to Dad.

Garlic bread, chips and guacamole, stuffed mushrooms, beef stroganoff, and cottage pie with vegetables, no doubt for me, as I don't eat red meat, creamy Mac and cheese, honey glazed pork chops and an apple pie for desert.

I tuck a handkerchief into the collar of my shirt and start eating.

Chapter 5

Charlotte:

Anthony Crosswalk is meticulous in everything he does. From what he eats, to the way he chews, to choosing a wife for his son.

I watch him cut his food into neat little cubes. As I chew my own food, I count the number of times he chews the food. I'm not surprised to count thirty two. Of course he chews his food thirty two times.

"Charlotte, how's business going?" My father snaps me out of my counting.

"Business is going great, father." I put some roasted carrots into my mouth, hoping he doesn't berate me.

"She doesn't want my diamond business, Anthony. Can you believe that? My billion dollar business."

"Charles..." My mother tries to stop him.

"No, Elise. She has everything handed to her on a silver plate, and yet she just doesn't want it. She goes and opens a boutique, something that's only good as a hobby."

I put some mashed potatoes in my mouth and find it hard to swallow. Well, there goes my appetite. I sip some water and remove the handkerchief from my collar, wiping my mouth with it.

"Well, I've never had that problem with Sebastian. He was eager to take over the company from day one. Sometimes, they rebel just for the fun of it. For attention."

A spark of anger shoots down my spine, before I snuff it out. How can a man who doesn't understand his own son understand a complete stranger?

I stay silent. As I always do. My mother looks at me with the same sympathy in her eyes as she always does. My father levels me with a hard look, as usual. The only new addition here is Anthony Crosswalk. Who looks at me like I'm way beneath him. But, at the end of the day, it doesn't matter what he thinks about me, because it's not him I'm marrying, it's his son, who, from what I've seen, does not like his father.

"Where's Warren?" I ask my mother, referring to the boy who used to landscape our garden, AKA my childhood crush.

"You don't know?"

"Know what?"

"Warren doesn't work here anymore. Do you know Accelerate?"

"Those gyms?"

"Yes dear. Well he's the one who owns them."

I gasp. "Seriously?"

She smiles at me and nods. She'd found out about my crush in its early stages. God knows how.

"He used to be our landscaper." My father fills in the blanks for Anthony.

"How does he concern you?" Anthony asks me and I'm stupefied by his audacity.

"He's my friend."

When it's time for the Apple Pie, I know I don't want a piece, so I excuse myself from the table and go inside, up to my old room.

Everything is still the same. It looked uninhabited before and it looks uninhabited now.

Gold and white accents, with a queen sized bed on a raised platform in the center of the room. Lustrous gold curtains hang in front of the windows. Often, the room made me sick. The gold was too much for my eyes. I'd often change rooms when I was a kid, to one with purple accents instead.

Looking at the room still makes me feel sick, so I go to the purple room, which feels like me. There's even a fireplace in this room. It was one of my favorite things about it.

The mantel is still lined with my knick-knacks. The night dresser still has my floating moon lamp and my mini Big Ben clock. I would have expected my father to throw all this out, but perhaps he hasn't even been here to notice.

I toss myself on the bed, reveling in the amazing feel and close my eyes.

I might have fallen asleep because when I open my eyes, it's thirty minutes later. I get up and go into the attached bathroom to wash my face. I dry it with one of the hand towels and go downstairs to find everyone in the family room.

"Where have you been dear?" My mom asks me.

"Just took a little nap. What did I miss?"

"Nothing yet. We're just about to discuss the dates."

The thought makes me go pale. I always knew my father would arrange my marriage to someone of his choice. Perhaps, that's the reason why I've never bothered giving any importance to my love life. Still, it's intimidating to marry a complete stranger.

"We'll hold the engagement next week. The wedding will be within the next two months."

The words make me queasy and I fall into a loveseat.

"No. No. No." I keep chanting. My nerves are all over the place and my stomach wants to turn in itself.

Everyone looks at me strangely. Me! When they're the ones who have gone completely insane.

Anthony crosses his arms over his chest.

"I don't see a problem here."

"I can't plan a wedding in two months."

"You don't need to. All you have to do is pick out a dress. I'll take care of the rest."

"But, I'm not ready." I say this on a whisper.

"For what?" He asks me.

"To get married to Sebastian."

"What is it that scares you so much?"

I think about it.

"For sharing my life with him."

"You don't have to do anything you don't want to. How is it so different from living by yourself? The only difference being, you'll have company. You'll even love our house. You can go to your boutique as you wish. We even have a cook, Julia who prepares all the meals. I'm not even home most of the time, so you won't have to worry about that. If you have any problem, you can always tell me or Sebastian. We can even get you your own driver."

I digest all his words and surprisingly, they make me feel much better. Everything he said sounds appealing, and Anthony Crosswalk seems like a man who keeps his word.

I nod, even though I'm internally searching for any holes in his words. It sounds easy enough, but I'm still a little nervous.

"Now that that's settled, I'll have to get going now. Charlotte, will you be joining me?"

"Yes. I'll be right back."

I change into a pair of jeans and a T-shirt, and say my goodbyes to my parents.

Chapter 6

Anthony:

"I do not want a wedding ceremony. Forcing a woman upon me wasn't enough for you? Putting my signature on the papers is the most I can do. The only wedding I ever wanted was with Adeline, and you so selfishly robbed me of that. Only Adeline will ever be my bride. So, if you think I'd even attend my own wedding, you're poorly mistaken, father dearest."

It takes all my effort to push down my anger. What the fuck is that bitch Adeline doing to him?

"Crosswalk Industries and Daymond Diamonds. Both of them Fortune 500 companies. You expect us not to throw a grand wedding? That's what your future wife does for a living, mind you"

"I don't give a shit about her, least of all, about what she does. You can throw the biggest wedding ceremony you want."

"Thank y-"

"But the groom won't be attending." He finishes with a smirk and leaves.

As soon as he closes the door to my office cabin, I launch a dart. Bulls eye. I continue to throw more darts till I've expelled all my anger.

Just then, my phone rings. I consider smashing it, before thinking better of it.

"Hello?"

"Hi Anthony. It's Charlotte." She speaks in a small voice.

"Yes?"

"I just wanted to let you know that I can plan the wedding myself. It won't be a problem."

I rub my eyebrows, feeling a headache start to form.

"Sebastian doesn't want a wedding ceremony."

There's silence on the other end.

"What...is he expecting to do then?"

"He just wants to sign the papers."

She must be sad. A wedding is every girl's childhood dream. Now, she won't be able to have it. Not my problem. But what is going to be my problem is, explaining to her parents why there won't be a grand wedding.

"Father isn't going to like that." She points out the obvious.

"Thank you for pointing out the obvious Charlotte. I appreciate it."

There's a faint sigh on the other end. Did I not hang up? I try to do just that before she speaks again.

"Perhaps this is why I was meant to be a wedding planner. To give other brides the picture perfect wedding that I'll never be able to have."

I don't know what to say to that.

"Perhaps." I hang up before she can say anything else.

Now, to deal with Charles Daymond. I decide to FaceTime him.

"Charles. Good afternoon. I hope you're doing well."

"Very well in fact. To what do I owe the pleasure of getting a video call from Anthony Crosswalk himself."

"It's about the wedding. There won't be a ceremony." I decide to take the blunt approach. I was never one to beat around the bush. And, when push comes to shove, Crosswalk Industries is much bigger than Daymond Diamonds. Nonetheless, the union would be extremely beneficial.

He swings his club far back and hits the ball, sending it flying high into the air.

"Anthony, you just told me something I would have preferred not to hear. I have, but only one child. A daughter. I'm sure you understand, what with Sebastian being your only offspring. He wasn't able to make it to lunch either, last weekend. I hope there's no trouble?"

Yes, there is trouble. My son is fixated on a woman who tries to get into my pants every fucking chance she gets, and I don't tell my son, because somehow, he's head over heels in love with the whore. I only remain silent, for the sole purpose of not breaking his heart.

I choose not to use such crass language with Charles though.

"There is no trouble Charles. It's just that Sebastian hates weddings. Seeing as how things are between me and his mother, he doesn't believe in throwing grand weddings."

My words hit their mark, even if they aren't true. A flash of sympathy sparks in his eyes.

"I do understand that. But, Charlotte has always dreamt of a grand wedding, one that she, herself wants to plan."

"She's okay with it."

At this, his mouth opens.

"She was okay with it?"

I nod and a sad smile flits across his lips.

"Perhaps it's because she does not love the boy. Maybe, it's the reason why she doesn't care."

"Perhaps." I end the call with him the same way I ended it with his daughter.

______________________________________

Sebastian:

"When are you to marry Lance, Addy?"

Her head rests on my naked chest as she scrolls through her phone.

"Izzy just can't get rid of that fat, can she?"

I gently pry her phone out of her hands and ask her again. She pouts and says,

"The fifteenth of June. I told Daddy to make the wedding big."

"You're going to have a wedding ceremony?" The thought is disturbing and only serves to spark fury within me.

"Yes Seb. A wedding is every girl's childhood dream. If he can't give me the groom I want, the least he can do is throw me the wedding that I want."

I try to rationalize my thoughts. It's not her fault. She wants a wedding? She can have one. It's not like she's asking me not to have a wedding, so of course, I can't ask the same of her. It would only end in one of the priceless vases crashing against the floor.

I stare at her beautiful face and kiss her forehead, running my hands through her shiny blonde hair, the hair that I love so much.

My hands travel further down, down, down to her ass.

"Sebastian, you were at it just a few minutes ago." She whines and I smirk.

"Is that a complaint I hear?" I'm not hard...yet, so she's good...for now.

"You know it's not."

She grabs my dick and tugs, giving me a semi.

"Ok, now you're asking for it."

"Of course I am. It belongs to me, doesn't it?"

I smile down at her and plant a kiss on her lips.

"Damn straight it does."

She sighs. "Who knows? You may give it to your future wife."

The words make me scoff in disgust.

"Never. That bitch is getting nothing from me. She'll wish she never married me."

Chapter 7

The engagement party is way sooner than I expected. It does make me nervous, but Anthony's words keep replaying in my head and to some extent, they still reassure me. The engagement is going to be held at their house and Anthony told me he would send a driver, but I declined.

Franco can drop me off. It's quite odd that Sebastian has not even spoken to me yet. It may become problematic in the future.

A shriek causes my spine to snap up straight. I'm immediately held in a chokehold.

"You look so fuckable right now."

I laugh and turn to hug Fiona.

"Thank you."

The glittery gold bodycon dress attracted my attention as soon as I saw it through the display window. I knew I had to have it, so I bought it.

The fuckable comment is probably because of the slit that starts at my thigh, extending all the way to my ankle.

I look into the mirror and weave some golden flowers into my French twist.

I put in some chandelier shaped earrings, clasp a gold chain around my neck and turn to look at Fiona.

"I'm ready."

"Just gorgeous." She gives a chef's kiss and I give her a flying one in return.

"Wait a minute though." She stands in front of me and tells me to kiss her hand.

I do and a red lip imprint is left on her skin.

"Okay, now it's perfect."

I step into my strappy gold heels and we walk arm in arm to the car.

Franco has the back door held open for us. I get in after Fiona and thank him.

"Benson won't be able to make it?" I ask about her husband.

She frowns. "No. There's a shortage of staff at the hospital. He's needed there. He really wanted to come though. Put on a tux too. The call came when we were inside the car and let me tell you, I've never heard him curse like that on the road." She chuckles.

Benson was my first ever client. I thought it would be a woman, but perhaps I shouldn't have been biased. He placed all his trust in me to give his fiancé a perfect wedding and I did deliver. When I had met Fiona, we'd just instantly clicked. We've been friends since then, which was almost five years ago.

The drive doesn't take long, and soon, we're pulling into the circular driveway, with a huge water fountain in the center. Beyond the circular driveway are trees. Lots and lots of palm trees.

Franco drops us off at the front door and leaves, since there are tons of cars parked outside the gates. Several rose bushes line the front of the house. The black roses are a sharp contrast against the pale beige exterior of the house. They look majestic.

It feels like I'm a guest to my own engagement and the thought makes me laugh. If only.

Fiona let's out a whistle beside me, her eyes fixed on the house, and I laugh. There's two garages on either side of me and the front door swings open just as we climb up the last step.

A short middle aged woman comes up to me.

"You the bride, yes?" She asks in a heavy Russian accent.

"Yes." She grabs my hand and pulls me inside. I pull Fiona behind me. Hmm. I like this energetic woman. I don't have time to appreciate the grandeur of the foyer as I'm quickly ushered to the living area.

White couches are lined up against the white walls. Hundreds of shoes walk across the cream and brown marble flooring. Champagne flutes are being passed along with hors d'oeuvres.

My eyes find Anthony talking to a group of people. He's dressed in a tan suit, with a black shirt underneath. His hair is neatly gelled back and his watch is clasped to his wrist as always. It's the first time I actually pay attention to the tattoos on his hands. The hummingbird catches my attention for some reason. I would not have pegged Anthony Crosswalk to be a tattoo guy.

"Is that your future husband?" Fiona glances in Anthony's direction.

"That's Anthony, my future father in law." Heat creeps up my face.

That makes her let out a low whistle.

"Hot damn. Talk about DILF. Where's your future husband though?"

I scan the room again and there he is. Dressed in a cobalt blue suit with a light pink button down underneath it. His hair is neatly combed to the side and he looks like he wants to be anywhere but here.

So how does this work exactly? Am I supposed to announce my own arrival? A minute later, I feel a familiar presence beside me.

"Father." I greet him and go to hug my mom.

"You look beautiful Mom."

Anthony's voice speaks up and I haven't even realized he's been standing in front of us.

"Charles. Elise. Glad you both came."

"I wouldn't miss it for the world. Where's Sebastian?"

"Sebastian, come over here. Your father in law wants to speak to you."

I can see Sebastian gritting his teeth. I don't know whether to be annoyed or sympathetic. I totally understand his behavior. I can't even imagine the pain he must be going through. To love someone, but be forced to marry another? I'm glad I'm not in his shoes. But, at the same time, he doesn't have to look so annoyed for just making small talk. He doesn't have to be rude about it.

For a brief moment, I'm angry at Anthony. Why can't he just marry Sebastian off to the woman he loves? My eyes are laser focused on Anthony. I don't see an ounce of guilt in his golden hazel eyes.

His eyes snap to mine and I look away, focusing on the wall beside the giant flat screen. I'm aware his gaze is still on me and I shift in my heels.

"Pleased to meet you Mr. Daymond." Sebastian holds his hand out for my Dad to shake.

Dad looks pleased and goes for the shake.

I don't miss the flash of surprise in Anthony's eyes because I feel the same way. I was prepared for Sebastian to say something rude.

"Likewise, son. I was disheartened that you couldn't make it to lunch last weekend."

"I truly am sorry Mr. Daymond, but I had to attend the business summit in London. I hope you'll forgive me."

"Of course, young man. You are welcome to join us for lunch anytime at our place, isn't that right Elise?"

"Of course dear."

Something does seem suspicious here. When Sebastian's eyes land on mine, I swear his eyes turn hard and his lips are turned up in the barest of scowls. I look away and catch Anthony's eyes on his son.

Chapter 8

Sebastian:

She doesn't hold a candle to Adeline. She's ugly. Her face is ugly. Her shoes are ugly, and her style is ugly. She gives me a smile, but I ignore it.

I can be civil to the parents, but to her? All cards are off the table when it comes to her. She's the wall standing between me and my Addy. A wall I'll go through any lengths to destroy.

My father goes onto the makeshift podium to deliver a small speech, which I tune out because I'm focused on Charlotte Daymond, thinking of all the ways I can make her miserable.

She must sense some malice in me, because she looks at me again, but this time she holds my stare. A nudge to my elbow brings me face to face with my father. His speech was over quick. He hands me a ring box and gives the other to the Daymond bitch.

I open the box and see a simple gold band encrusted in small diamonds. I bet he picked out the rings himself. He seems more invested in this sham of a marriage than the groom himself. Why can't he marry her instead? Then I could have had Adeline for myself.

I slip the gold band around her finger in distaste and hear claps around me. Why the fuck are they clapping? It's not an achievement.

She does the same, sliding the thicker gold band around my ring finger. If I had it my way, I wouldn't want this nonsense spectacle. But Anthony Crosswalk loves spectacles, so I have to play along with it. Though, I'm surprised he relented on the wedding ceremony.

The ring instantly weighs down on my finger, like a shackle.

"Congratulations to the both of you."

I want to roll my eyes, but instead I say, "Thanks Dad."

It's soon time for dinner and I'm made to sit beside my fiancé.

"Hi." I hear her whisper to my right, but I pretend I don't hear her.

"I know you can hear me." She whispers again.

"I'm no more excited than you are about this marriage. What do you think about becoming allies?"

"I say it's bullshit. Stay away from me." I whisper harshly back to her. Luckily, that shuts her up.

We're served dinner and we eat in silence, but my father keeps chatting with the Daymonds.

"Sebastian, I've heard that you don't want a wedding ceremony." Charles asks me.

I look over at Dad. Nothing in his expression gives me any warning.

"That's right." I cut into my Beef Wellington. I don't elaborate further and he doesn't question it.

"You're okay with that, aren't you Charlotte?"

She lifts her head from her stir fried vegetables to look at her father.

"It's fine. No biggie."

Biggie? What is she? A teenager? Her tits say otherwise. They're rather big for her small frame.

I must be glaring down the front of her dress because Dad clears his throat and glares at me. I quickly avert my gaze and am grateful Charles Daymond didn't catch me staring at his daughter's tits.

She however, didn't notice it because she's too busy eating her lemon tart. I glance down at her stomach and find it flat.

I stop wondering about her body, because it's none of my business and go back to finishing my dinner.

Charlotte stays back after everyone has left. I don't know if she isn't getting my hostile vibes or if she's just that dense. She should have left as soon as she sat next to me at the dinner table.

Unfortunately, she approaches me after listening to whatever it was my father had said to her.

"You don't have to see me as a threat Sebastian."

She comes even closer to whisper to me.

"I support your relationship with whoever it is you love." She looks back at Dad to see if he's listening. He's not.

"I'm stuck in this as much as you are." She smiles at me, but I don't return it.

"So what do you say? Friends?" She holds her hand out for me to shake, but I obviously don't take it. I turn on my heel and walk away.

Glancing over my shoulder, I see her full lips turned slightly downward in a frown.

Good luck sweetheart, because you are going to be wearing that look for the rest of this marriage.

______________________________________

Charlotte:

"He'll warm up to you." I look at Anthony and give him a nod.

"I hope so. I should get going as well."

Fiona had to leave, so I had Franco drop her off. It's strange that I entered this house as a single woman, and I'm now leaving with a gold band around my ring finger, engaged to be married. For a minute, it saddens me. I've always wanted love, but now? I know I'll never have it, unless I'm free from this marriage.

I tell Anthony I'm leaving and call Franco. He's there in two minutes.

I climb inside and the drive home is silent. Dealing with Sebastian is going to be a challenge.

I thank Franco and take off my heels as soon as I step into my apartment. I pour myself a glass of water and chug it down, staring at the ring on my finger.

It takes me fifteen minutes to get ready for bed and before I turn off my lamp, I remove the ring and put it on my nightstand. There's no need to remind myself of the marriage when I'm alone.

______________________________________

"Just a second." I say as I put the last pin in the bride's dress.

"There. Perfecto." I turn her around so she can look at herself in the mirror.

On cue, she bursts into happy tears and on cue, I hand her a box of tissues.

"You look beautiful sweetie."

She throws her arms around me.

"Thank you."

I rub her back for a couple of seconds and let her go, pinning her with a big grin.

"It's all going to be perfect. Don't you worry about a single thing."

"Char! Your phone's ringing."

I catch it perfectly on time as Harper tosses it to me.

Anthony. I hit accept before the call ends.

"Charlotte. Next month, you'll be a married woman. 26th of next month okay for you? I can prepone it, but postponing is out of the question."

I swallow. "26th is fine."

He ends the call without a goodbye and I stare at my phone in horror. Every time, after I get off a call with him, I feel sick. Absolutely sick.

Chapter 9

The 26th arrives sooner than I expected.

So here I am, in the courthouse, in a white lace dress, all alone, rocking back and forth on my heels, tossing my bouquet from one hand to the other.

"Why aren't they here yet?" Fiona whispers to me.

I shrug.

"I swear if they ditched you, we're getting on the next flight to Vegas."

I hold a finger up.

"I do not object to that decision. At all."

"Are you sure the date is today?" The official asks me after one hour, not including the 40 minutes I had waited before that.

"Yes, I'm sure." He looks skeptical, but doesn't question me further.

"Five. Four. Three. Two. One. Come on Char, we're going."

I grin at her, despite the weight in my chest. I don't know why my heart feels so heavy, I should be happy that I'm not getting married. Maybe it's just the feeling of not being enough weighing me down.

I throw my bouquet in a nearby trashcan outside the courthouse and loosen my hair from its updo.

"That's right girl. Get ready to get wild in Vegas."

I suddenly bump into someone and apologize, before realizing I bumped into Sebastian Crosswalk.

He looks angry. Furious even. Suddenly, I've had enough of it.

I find Anthony right behind him, in a no better mood than Sebastian.

"Anthony, you don't have to do this to him. Look how angry he is all the time."

Anthony steps closer and closer till he's toe to toe with me. I have to crane my neck to see his face.

"You don't tell me what to do young lady. I know what I have to do for my son. You are not his mother, so don't tell me what I should or shouldn't do."

I take a step back from him and look at the both of them. Same jaws, same brown eyes, just in different shades. Anthony's facial features are harder and sharper whereas Sebastian's features are more on the soft side. He must take after his mother in that department.

"Let's go." Surprisingly, it's Sebastian who says this.

"Are you sure you have to do this Char?" Fiona whispers into my ear.

I give her a small smile.

"I can't get out of this any more than he can."

Both father and son whip their heads in my direction. Was I that loud?

"Geez, Charlotte, could you be any louder?" Fiona laughs at my side and my cheeks heat up, but I don't apologize. I don't feel the need to.

The official looks at me, then looks at Anthony and Sebastian with pursed lips. Sebastian is dressed too casually in jeans and a baby blue button up shirt, whereas Anthony is dressed in a three piece suit. I don't think I've ever seen him in anything else.

"Which one of you is the groom?" The official asks, making me blush and both the men scowl. Anthony urges Sebastian forward, making him stand right beside me.

After about an hour, me and Sebastian are officially husband and wife. At least, on paper.

The four of us celebrate by going to a restaurant for lunch. Much to his dismay, Sebastian is made to sit beside me. Anthony's phone rings while I'm in the middle of eating my lobster bisque.

I assumed he would ignore it, but he answers and I hear my father's voice on the other end.

"Anthony, Sebastian, congratulations are in order." My father decides to pretend I'm not there, which I'm pretty much used to. Nothing new about that. Nope. Nothing at all. I mean it hurts a little, but really, it's no big deal.

I clean the plate and get a toffee pudding for desert. Fiona groans and I turn to look at her.

"Where do you fit all that?"

"I guess it goes here." I discretely point to my breasts.

"Ugh. Your boobs are amazing. I'd totally do you if I were a guy."

I giggle at that. "You're such a pervert Fiona."

She shrugs and sips her milkshake. Meanwhile, the waiter delivers my toffee pudding.

It looks mouthwatering. I stare at my pudding in anticipation and catch Sebastian staring at me.

I blink at him. "What?"

He shakes his head in a mixture of disgust and dismay.

"Are you not done yet?"

"I've been waiting for this pudding. You guys can go ahead." I rub my hands on my thighs and pick up my fork.

I hear a scoff. Anthony stares at me blankly and excuses himself to take another phone call, so I know it didn't come from him. Sebastian, on the other hand, has his lip curled upwards.

"Who will pick up the bill? You?" He looks at me in disbelief and shakes his head.

"Yes. I thought that was the plan?"

"I think I'll be in debt after feeding you."

My cheeks flush hot with embarrassment.

"Hey!" Fiona exclaims angrily.

"You don't need to feed her. She's capable of doing it herself." Fiona says in my defense.

"Can she even afford it without her Daddy's money?"

I open my mouth to tell him I'm right there, but Anthony cuts me to it.

"Yes, Sebastian, she can most definitely afford it. She doesn't need your money, or my money, or her Father's money. She's Charlotte Daymond, a businesswoman, not Adeline Ruthfield, world class hoe."

I'm too surprised to register Sebastian's face turning red. I look at Anthony and find him glaring at Sebastian. The stare off is too intense, because neither of them relents. I clear my throat and say, "I'm done. Let's go."

Sebastian is the one who turns to me.

"It's about time."

The waiter comes out with the receipt and I slip my black Amex card into it, leaving a twenty dollar tip for the waiter in cash.

We leave after I stash my credit card back into my pocket.

Apparently, I have to go in the same car as Anthony and Sebastian, but Franco is already there, since I assumed I would be going with him.

I kiss Fiona's cheek and tell her to go with Franco.

"Call me whenever, and wherever you need. I'll always be there." Her words cause my eyes to burn and I can only nod at her.

"You bet your ass I will."

I get in the backseat of their black SUV, with Sebastian sitting beside me.

I slap my hands on my thighs.

"So your place or mine?" I grin when I see mild surprise on his face.

"I mean I'll need to pack my things." I correct.

"It's already done." Anthony says from the passenger seat.

"What? How?"

"Your father had it arranged." I slump back in my seat. Typical of Charles Daymond. Doing everything without considering the other person's feelings.

"Oh." It comes out more dejected than I had wanted it to.

Chapter 10

My favorite part of Casa de Crosswalk is the abundance of palm trees. We all get out at the same time and I marvel at the black rose bushes once again.

The black SUV goes into the right garage and I ask Sebastian,

"Which garage is yours? Right or left?"

There's a long pause before he answers.

"Left." It's grumbled so low that I almost hadn't heard it.

Of course the SUV belongs to Anthony. I stand in the foyer and take in my surroundings. To my right is a wide marble staircase which leads to the second floor and to my left, two wide archways lead into the hall.

Sebastian just storms up the stairs, leaving me and Anthony to stare at his retreating form.

"You'll be sharing the same room as him. As you are, after all, husband and wife now."

I clear my throat and nod at him. I expect him to leave as well, but he looks like he wants to say something.

After a beat of hesitation, he looks straight into my eyes with his hazel ones.

"If Sebastian gives you trouble...you can tell me."

I don't know why, but his words spread relief through my chest. I was afraid I wouldn't have any allies. Not to say Anthony is exactly my ally. Well not yet, at least. But, there's a possibility and for that, I'm grateful.

"Thank you." I give him a warm smile, and then he too storms off.

I take a deep breath for courage before climbing the stairs behind Sebastian.

A narrow gallery filled with framed paintings greets me on the top stair. I can go either left or right. I choose right and knock on the door.

"Sebastian? It's me."

After a long pause, I think I've got the wrong room, but I hear the faint rustling of clothes.

"Can you please open up?"

I think it's a lost cause, but before I turn back the way I came, the door swings open and Sebastian grabs me.

I squeal when he slams me against the wall, his hands shackling my wrists to the wall.

He gets into my face and curls his lip.

"If you think this marriage is going to be sunshine and rainbows, think again. I didn't want to marry you. I was forced into it. If you expect something else, you're not getting it. I may be your husband on paper, but I'm not yours in any other sense of the word. Do you understand me?"

His words are a lot to take in, but I understand where he's coming from.

"Okay."

His brows dip and he pins me with a confused look.

"Okay?"

"I understand. You were forced into this, and I knew arranged marriage was in the cards for me. I don't expect anything from you, don't worry." I explain to him softly.

His face relaxes for a fraction before he pins me with another glare.

"Don't expect me to be faithful to you. I also don't expect it from you. I don't care for it."

It's disappointing, but I give him a small smile.

"You're a man in love. I know. I won't stand in your way."

He seems at a loss for words, but soon narrows his eyes into thin slits.

"How do I know I can believe your words?"

I shrug. "I don't have a reason to lie. So...are we friends or...are we friends?"

Confusion mars his face, but he clears his throat and let's go of my wrists.

"Well, that's not what I was expecting."

I laugh. "What? Did you think I would scream bloody murder and go on a rampage or something?"

He frowns. "I wouldn't go that extreme."

I hold out my hand.

"Charlotte Daymond. Friends?"

He ignores my hand.

"I don't trust you yet."

I sigh. I guess it'll take time.

"Well, now that that's over, I apparently have to share a room with you. But hey, you won't even feel like I'm there."

I open the closet and see my clothes on one half and male apparel on the other half.

"Guess it's too late for that." I look at him apologetically. I don't want this union to be spiteful or hateful.

He waves it off.

"You win some, you lose some. I don't mind sharing closet space. Throwing a tantrum over something so small is immature, even for me."

"Well, well, well, sharing closet space with THE Sebastian Crosswalk? Always been my dream." I don't know if he knows I'm kidding, but he smirks.

The Crosswalk men were blessed in the looks department, even I'll give them that.

"Well, I have to drop by the office, but don't make yourself too much at home. No rummaging through my stuff." He warns.

I give him a nod and proceed to take off my pearl earrings when he closes the door behind him. Looks like Anthony didn't have to worry about anything. Sure, the first few moments were tense and hostile, but I handled it. I think.

I put silver hoops through my ears and remove my gown to change into more appropriate business attire.

I slip into my nude wedges because Lord knows I need the extra height, even though it adds only a few extra inches to my 5'1.

I leave my hair as it is and walk out the door, only to bump into Anthony downstairs.

"Sorry." I look at him sheepishly, to which he only stares at me blankly.

"Sebastian wasn't...so bad. We've founded a truce. A friendship of sorts?" Sebastian didn't agree to being friends, but hey, Anthony doesn't need to know that.

His brows dip, similar to his son's. Honestly Anthony doesn't look a day over 35.

"I never said my son is bad. He can be difficult at times, but he's not a bad man. A husband and wife relationship between you both is what I was angling for, what with the marriage and all, but I guess friendship is a start."

I look at him in bafflement. If logic had a name, it would be Anthony Crosswalk.

"I will keep that mind."

"Here." He hands me two pairs of keys.

"One is the SUV's and one is a Rolls Royce. Both mine, but you can have one. Take your pick."

My eyes nearly bug out of my sockets.

"You would let me have your Rolls Royce?"

He shrugs. "I don't care about which car I drive in. It's just a vehicle. I'm guessing you don't like to be driven around."

He's right. As much as I love Franco, I like driving myself around.

I gingerly hand him back the Rolls Royce keys, keeping the SUV keys in my palm.

"Thank you Anthony."