The grandeur of Christopher's mansion seemed to mock the darkness that filled his heart as he sat in his study, contemplating his twisted plan. The weight of the day's events pressed heavily upon him. With a resolute sigh, Christopher retrieved his cell phone from his pocket and dialed the number of his trusted lawyer, Patrick. As the line connected, he could hear the concern in Patrick's voice.
"Hello, Patrick," Christopher greeted, his tone filled with a mix of weariness and determination.
"Christopher, I heard what happened. Are you okay? The assassination, I mean," Patrick responded, his voice laced with genuine worry.
"I'm okay," Christopher assured him, his words carrying a weight of hidden meaning. "But that's not why I'm calling."
Curiosity mingled with confusion in Patrick's voice as he asked, "So, what can I help you with then?"
"I need you to help me prepare a marriage contract," Christopher stated, his voice firm and unwavering.
Patrick's laughter crackled through the phone, initially thinking it was a joke. "A marriage contract? For who?"
"A lady named Gabriella Thompson and me," Christopher replied coldly, his resolve unyielding.
Patrick's laughter ceased abruptly, replaced by a stunned silence. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. The idea of Christopher, a man notorious for his aversion to commitment, seeking a marriage contract seemed unfathomable.
"Tell me it's a joke, Christopher," Patrick pleaded, hoping that his friend had momentarily lost his senses.
"I'm not one to tell jokes, Patrick," Christopher retorted icily. "I want the document before the end of today."
With those words, Christopher ended the call, leaving Patrick bewildered and disturbed by the depths of his friend's intentions. Christopher's mind churned with a mix of anger and bitterness. Gabriella had been nothing more than a pawn in his actions to force her father to repay the debt he owed. But now, fueled by the cutting words of Gabriella's sister and the seething resentment that consumed him, he saw an opportunity to exert control over her and her family.
As expected, Patrick delivered the contract before the end of the day. Christopher welcomed him at the entrance of his opulent mansion, his face devoid of any emotion. Patrick, still trying to comprehend the situation, couldn't contain his curiosity.
"Are you sure about this? Why the sudden change? Why marry?" Patrick asked, his voice tinged with both confusion and concern.
"It's just a decision I needed to make," Christopher replied, his voice steady, though the emotions beneath the surface remained hidden. "Would you like a drink?"
"No, I'm fine," Patrick responded, glancing at his watch. "I have some other pending business."
With a nod, Christopher watched as Patrick left the mansion, leaving him alone with the weight of his decision. He held the marriage contract in his hands, its contents representing a path he never thought he would tread. Making his way back to his study, the room bathed in a dim, sober light, he instructed Mary to inform Gabby that he wished to see her immediately.
As Christopher settled into his study, his mind raced with conflicting thoughts and emotions. He couldn't deny the turmoil that churned within him, the realization that his actions were driven by a twisted desire for control and revenge.