I stirred awake as the door to the suite creaked open. My heart leapt with a mix of hope and dread. Richard walked in, his expression unreadable. He paused, eyes scanning the room before they settled on me. I sat up, feeling the weight of last night pressing down on me.
"We need to talk," Richard said, his tone firm.
I nodded, my voice caught in my throat. I followed him to the sitting area, the tension between us palpable. Richard remained standing, his posture rigid.
"I can't divorce you quickly," he began, his words cutting through the silence. "But I want to make something clear. This marriage is in name only. Do not expect anything from me."
My heart sank. I had anticipated his anger, but hearing it spoken aloud was a different pain altogether.
"Richard, please, let me explain–"
He raised his hand, silencing me. 'There's nothing to explain. I don't know what game you and your family are playing, but I won't be a pawn in it. We will only be seen in public or at the important functions. Other than that, we are strangers."
I swallowed hard, tears stinging my eyes. "I didn't know, Richard. I swear. I had no choice in this."
He shook his head, his eyes cold. "Save your excuses. I've heard enough lies for one day."
Without another word, he turned and headed for the bedroom, leaving me sitting there, feeling utterly alone. I heard him packing, the sound of zippers and drawers opening and closing a stark reminder of his imminent departure.
Minutes later, he emerged with a suitcase in hand. "I'm leaving for New York. James will come get you later. Don't expect to see me until necessary."
I watched him, my heart aching. When the door clicked shut behind him, the reality of my situation crashed over me. I was truly alone in this foreign place, bound to a man who despises me.
Needing to escape the confines of the suite, I ventured down to the lounge for comfort. The dim light and the soft music provided a small comfort. I found a seat at the bar, ordering a glass of water. I stared at it, my thoughts a whirlwind.
A man sidled up next to me, his smile too familiar for comfort. "Hey there, beautiful. What's a lady like you doing all alone?"
I forced a polite smile. "I'm just… thinking."
"How about a drink? It'll help you think better," he said, his hand inching closer
"No thank you," I replied, shifting away.
The man didn't take the hint. His hand moved to my arm, gripping it tightly. "Come on, just one drink."
"Please let go," I said, my voice shaking.
Before I could react further, the man was suddenly yanked away from me. He stumbled, landing hard on the floor. I looked up, stunned to see Richard standing there, fury etched into his features.
Richard's voice was low and dangerous. "I suggest you keep your hands to yourself and stay away from my wife."
The man scrambled to his feet, muttering apologies before fleeing the lounge. Richard turned to me, his grip on my arm firm but not painful. His breath, hot against my ear. "Let's go."
I nodded, too shaken to protest. He led me out of the lounge and back to the suite, His hands never leaving my arm. When we were finally inside, he released me, pacing round the room like a caged animal.
"Are you alright?" he asked, his voice softer but still tense.
I nodded, unable to meet his eyes. "Yes. Thank you."
Richard took a deep breath, his anger seeming to ebb. "I meant what I said earlier, Kathryn. But I won't tolerate anyone disrespecting you. You're still my wife.
His words hung in the air, a confusing mix of protection and rejection. I nodded, my heart heavy with the complexity of our situation.
Richard glanced at his watch. "I need to go. Take care of yourself."
With that, he left, and I was alone again, the silence of the suite a stark contrast to the storm of emotions inside me. I sank onto the couch, feeling the weight of my shattered dreams and uncertain future pressing down on me.