Eleanor's POV
The morning sun broke through the curtains, casting a golden hue over the room. I could hear the distant hum of preparations, the hustle and bustle that signified the magnitude of the day. My wedding day. I sat at the vanity, staring at my reflection, trying to steady my breath. The silk robe clung to my shoulders, its cool touch a stark contrast to the heat of my nervousness.
"Eleanor, darling, it's time to start getting ready," my mother said, her voice soft yet firm. She entered the room, her presence a mix of excitement and anxiety. She looked beautiful, her hair perfectly coiffed, her dress a deep blue that brought out the sparkle in her eyes.
I nodded, my throat too tight to speak. Today wasn't just any wedding—it was a union that tied my fate to Alexander Sterling, a man who had shown me nothing but cold indifference. I forced a smile, trying to ignore the gnawing unease that threatened to consume me.
As the stylists and makeup artists worked their magic, I tried to focus on the positives. My father's business would be saved. My family would remain at the top of the social ladder. But the reality of my situation loomed large, overshadowing any fleeting moments of joy.
The dress, a masterpiece of lace and satin, was fitted to perfection. Its intricate details were a testament to the craftsmanship that went into making it. As I stepped into it, the weight of the fabric felt like a physical manifestation of the burden I was about to take on.
"You're going to be the most beautiful bride, Eleanor," my best friend Ciara said, her eyes misting with emotion. She squeezed my hand, her support a small comfort in the sea of uncertainty.
"Thank you, Ciara," I whispered, my voice barely audible.
The ceremony was to be held in the grand ballroom of the Sterling estate, a location chosen for its opulence and grandeur. As I made my way there, the reality of the situation hit me with full force. The guests in attendance were not just family and friends, but powerful figures from the world of finance, politics, and the mafia. Names that, when spoken, could send shivers down anyone's spine.
The ballroom was a spectacle. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, casting a shimmering glow on the marble floors. Floral arrangements in hues of white and blush adorned every surface, filling the air with a heady mix of roses and lilies. The guests were seated, their conversations a low murmur that added to the atmosphere of anticipation.
I walked down the aisle, each step feeling like a step closer to an uncertain future. My eyes met Alexander's, and I searched for any hint of warmth or emotion. His expression was unreadable, a mask of stoic indifference. He looked devastatingly handsome in his tailored suit, but there was no joy in his eyes, no hint of affection.
The vows we exchanged were traditional, words that felt heavy with meaning. As I spoke, I could feel my heart pounding, each beat a reminder of the gravity of the moment.
"I, Eleanor Philip, take you, Alexander Sterling, to be my wedded husband," I began, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside. "To have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do us part."
Alexander's response was equally formal, his voice deep and commanding. "I, Alexander Sterling, take you, Eleanor Philip, to be my wedded wife. To have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do us part."
As we exchanged rings, the weight of the gold band on my finger felt like a shackle. I glanced up at him, searching for any sign that this was more than just a business arrangement. But his gaze remained impassive, giving nothing away.
The applause that followed felt distant, a hollow sound that echoed in my ears. We walked back down the aisle together, our hands barely touching. The reception that followed was an elaborate affair, a celebration that spared no expense. There were toasts and speeches, laughter and congratulations. But through it all, I felt like an outsider in my own life, a spectator to a show that I was forced to participate in.
As the evening wore on, I found myself alone on the terrace, looking out at the city lights. The door behind me opened, and I turned to see Alexander's right-hand man, Marcus, approaching. He was a tall, imposing figure, his expression serious.
"Congratulations, Mrs. Sterling," he said, his voice low and respectful.
"Thank you, Marcus," I replied, my tone polite but distant. "What can I do for you?"
He glanced around, ensuring we were alone before speaking. "There's something I need to discuss with Mr. Sterling. It's urgent."
My heart sank. I knew what this meant. Alexander's world was one of constant danger and intrigue, and our honeymoon was about to be interrupted. "I'll let him know," I said, my voice steady despite the disappointment that welled up inside me.
Marcus nodded, his expression grave. "Thank you."
I found Alexander in a quiet corner of the ballroom, speaking with a group of influential guests. I approached him, my steps measured and calm.
"Alexander, may I speak with you for a moment?" I asked, my voice composed.
He turned to me, his expression unreadable. "Of course, Eleanor. Excuse me, gentlemen."
We stepped aside, and I relayed Marcus's message. Alexander's eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of tension in his posture.
"Thank you," he said, his tone clipped. He turned to find Marcus, leaving me standing there, feeling abandoned once more.
Moments later, he returned, his expression firm. "There's been a development," he said, his voice low. "I need to attend to it immediately."
I nodded, swallowing my disappointment. "I understand."
He hesitated for a moment, then spoke again. "I need you to go ahead to our honeymoon destination. I'll join you as soon as I can."
The words stung, but I managed a nod. "Alright, Alexander. I'll wait for you."
He nodded, his gaze lingering on me for a moment before he turned and walked away, leaving me standing there, alone during the celebration. The weight of my new reality pressed down on me, a constant reminder of the life I had chosen—or rather, the life that had been chosen for me.
As I watched him go, I couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead. The road I was on was fraught with uncertainty and danger, but I resolved to face it head-on. I would not let Alexander's indifference or the challenges of his world break me. I was stronger than that, and I would find a way to survive in this new life, no matter what it took.