Billionaire's Dark Desire

Billionaire's Dark Desire

Author: Ameiry Savar

Genre: Romance

Tags: Erotica, hate-to-love, billionaire, force wedding

Blurb:

She never wanted him.

He had been wanting her for too long. 

She was forced to marry him. 

He waited for her.

She despises him. 

He desired her. 

How long can she stop her feelings if she was slowly falling in love with the man who causes her pain?

Would a man who had dark desires, can really fall in love… gently?

~~~

“I can’t wait that long, Miss Lichter.” 

“But why? I am not running away! I will do it! I will marry you!” 

“Remember this, Beatrice. You needed me as much as I wanted you. You wanted this marriage too. And you will want me too.” 

Billionaire’s Dark Desire © 2022 by Ameiry Savar 

Chapter 1: This is your fault!

“This is your fault! You witch!” Veronica shouted at her most while looking at Beatrice who was also crying. “If my husband dies! I will kill you!” 

“I-I’m sorry, Moth–” Beatrice felt a hard thing land on her right cheek. It almost knocked her out if it were not because of her friend, Javier. 

“Don’t you dare call me mother! I despise you!” 

“Auntie! It’s not Beatrice’s fault! Why are you blaming her?” Javier said. He holds Beatrice and puts her behind him. 

“Is it not, huh? Will you shut up, Javier?” said Clementine. Beatrice’s step-sister.  She was standing on Veronica’s side and also torturing Beatrice.

Beatrice's father, David Lichter, got in an accident with Beatrice. Beatrice survived it but David did not and was in the emergency room now. Beatrice was running away from their home because she could not take the constant humiliation that she received from her stepmother and step-sister. Beatrice was the only daughter of David Lichter who owned the biggest and most successful resort in Armscombe. Lichter's are one of the prominent families too. But as the years pass, their money slowly runs out because of the lavish life of David’s new wife, Veronica Brown. And when this happened, Veronica wanted Beatrice to marry a wealthy man who she never knew. But Beatrice and David were hit by a car whose driver lost control when they were going home. 

“If you only did not run away, David shouldn’t have followed you! He wouldn’t be in that car with you! This is your fault!” Veronica was once again enraged. 

Beatrice could not say anything, just cried. She too has been blaming herself. She was furious with everyone because even her father wanted her to marry a man she doesn’t know. She shook her head and pushed Javier. Then she ran out of the hospital. 

“That’s it! Go away, you shameful woman!” 

Javier cannot believe Veronica’s words. He followed Beatrice and saw her in the park of the hospital. She was sitting on the benches crying herself out. Javier sighed and slowly walked near Beatrice. He sat down too. 

“You know it’s not your fault, right?” Javier asked. 

Beatrice sniffed. “How come it’s not my fault? If I didn’t run away. My father wouldn’t be inside that emergency room fighting for his life! It’s my fault, Javier. He was just worried for me.” 

“You did not want that accident, okay? Come on. You should be checked by them too.” 

Beatrice has wounds on her arms and forehead. Her arms were aching too but she did not mind it. Her father was the most important to her. The truth is, Beatrice is the only blood of David. Her biological mother died in labor. She was six years old when Veronica came into their life and Clementine was eight. They never had a good relationship even though Beatrice tried for her father. 

“I’m okay.” 

“Come on. Don’t be hard headed,” Javier insisted. Javier was the son of their maidservant. But Javier was one of the scholars of David that's why he becomes a fine man now. He had been a friend of Beatrice since they were kids. 

“I-I just don't want to marry a stranger, Javier. Why couldn't my mother understand that? I never wanted to hurt my father.” 

“I know… I know.” Javier put his hands on Beatrice's shoulder. “Let's go back inside first. I'm sure that Master wouldn't want to see you like this if he woke up.”

Beatrice nodded. She wiped her tears and walked while Javier was helping her. They went back inside. The nurses immediately helped her and cleaned her wounds. Luckily, she didn't get any damage from the accident. She was not surprised because her father hugged her when the accident happened. 

'I'm sorry, Dad. I didn't mean to hurt you!'

Hours passed, and Beatrice went back in front of the surgery room where her father was still inside. Veronica and Clementine had been glaring at her since then. They cannot believe that Beatrice still has the guts on facing them after what happened. 

After a while, a doctor went out of the room. Veronica immediately faced him and asked him worriedly. 

“H-How was my husband? Is he okay now? Can we see him?” Veronica asked while crying. Clementine then was on her side trying to calm her. 

“He is okay for a while. But he will need surgery again. And sadly, we cannot do it here.”

Veronica frowned. “What do you mean? I thought you already fixed him?!”

“The accident harmed Mr. Lichter that much. We had fixed his inside. But his brain is still bleeding and we still can't do brain surgery here. You will need to bring him to Bruce Medical Hospital in the next City. That your family surely can afford.”

Veronica was stunned because of what she heard. Bruce Medical Hospital was the most prominent hospital in the country. Just a night there costs up to fifty thousand dollars, and surgery causes almost half a million dollars. Just thinking about all the money they would need makes Veronica feel dizzy. She might not be a good stepmother, but she does love her husband. 

“Mom! Mom!” Clementine panicked. She tried to catch her mother but she too was also in shock. Luckily, Javier helped and brought her to a room and let her rest. 

Seeing this, the doctor went to Beatrice who was still standing on the side shaking. 

“Miss. You are Mr. Lichter's daughter, right?” the doctor asked. 

Beatrice tried to calm herself and nodded. “Y-Yes.” 

“Please tell your mother when she calms down that your father needs to be brought to BMH tonight. We will need you to settle everything here first and you should ready your money for BMH. They will ask you for the first payment there. Do you understand?” 

Beatrice nodded even though she was out of her mind. She can’t stop thinking about her father’s situation. 

“I will go now. Someone will come here to help your family with the papers. We will prepare Mr. Pitcher too.”

“T-Thank you,” Beatrice answered. 

The doctor nodded at her and then went away. Beatrice's knees shook and she sat down on the waiting chairs. She cried again, blaming herself because of what just happened to her father. Now his life was endangered because of her. She might still be studying in college, but she already knew that their family business was failing. 

“You!” Veronica shouted. 

“Mrs. Lichter! You need to go back to your room and rest!” Javier was trying to stop Veronica. As soon as he put her to bed, Veronica woke up again raving. She was looking for Beatrice. 

“Mom, please! I don’t want you to be in danger too because of that woman!” Clementine cried. 

Beatrice gulped and stood up when she heard her mother. Veronica did not listen to them and rushed to Beatrice. She immediately slapped her in the face. Beatrice fell down and cried. 

“This is your fault! If you only agreed this would not happen anymore! How can we pay for your father’s hospital bill now? How can we bring him to that hospital for his surgery?! You are a stroke of bad luck to this family! I hate you!” Veronica sat down without thinking her red gown was damaged. She keeps on striking Beatrice who was not saying any words anymore. She was just crying herself out thinking of her father’s situation.  

Maybe, she should have agreed with her mother. She doesn’t want to marry because of money but now… They need it. 

When Veronica calms down, she sits on the waiting chair. 

Javier then helped Beatrice to stand up. Her arms were more aching now because of what Veronica did. But it does not compare to the pain in her heart now. She still has a lot of dreams for herself and her father. When she finished college, she helped in their company. She was so sure that she would be successful in time. But how can she do it? Her father will be dead because of her not doing anything. Causing the accident was already too much for her. She must do something for her family. 

Beatrice gulped and wiped her tears. Then she looked at Veronica with her teary eyes. 

“F-Fine. I-I will do it. I will marry him.” 

Chapter 2: I will marry him

“You don’t have to do this, Beatrice!” Javier was trying to stop Beatrice. They were in the hospital’s comfort room. Beatrice was cleaning herself because they were going to Bruce’s mansion. The place where the man who wanted to marry Beatrice lives. Beatrice never minds if Javier is also in the comfort room. She was changing her clothes in the cubicle and Javier was just outside waiting for her. It was okay for her because Javier was a good man. She treats her as the brother she never had. Also, she always felt safe when she was with him. “Then what should I do, Javier? I cannot let my father die. He is my only family,” Beatrice answered. She grunted when she tried to wear the dress brought to her by their maid. “I need to do this. At least for my father.” “No. This is never for your father. You know that your stepmother–” “Mother.” “Fine! Mother. You know it is her that will be happy only. You don’t have to sacrifice yourself!” Beatrice went out of the cubicle and examined her face in the mirror. She had bruises on her cheeks and a bandage on her forehead. Even her lips were bruised. Though, she was confident that whoever that man will still want her. Beatrice has gray eyes that she takes from her mother. Her hair was a long and natural blonde. She also has freckles on her cheeks and on her nose bridge. Her skin was fair and had a slim body. She does have suitors but she never entertains anyone because of her stepmother. Plus, she was more focused on building her career than having a boyfriend. “I need to do this, Javier. Please understand me.” Beatrice looked at her friend. She took Javier's hand and locked her eyes on his. “Come with me tonight.” “No. I will not let you go there!” Javier took back his hand. He will never agree to her plan. He knew that Beatrice never wanted this. “Okay. I will not do it. But what about my father, huh? Where will we get the ten thousand dollars we need to pay for this hospital? Then fifty thousand dollars for BMH? Where in the hands of gods will I have that money, Javier?! Even if I sell the resort now, it will still not be enough until my father recovers! And it will be too late!” Beatrice stopped and looked in the mirror. She took a deep breath and tried to control her feelings. “W-We don't have any money anymore, Javier. You… of all people know about it. So if you can't support me, you better go home now,” she said and went out hurriedly. Javier sighed. He was just worried about his friend. He understood her but doesn't want to force herself into the marriage that she never wanted. Yes, she might look at her as a brother but Javier was not. He adored her secretly. After Beatrice fixed herself. She went back to her mother’s room. Who was talking to someone on the phone. Clementine smirked as she saw Beatrice. She had been jealous of her since the first day she met her. Though she never admitted it to herself. The truth is, she was the one who should be marrying the wealthy stranger. But she learned that the man was old already. So she begged her mother not to marry her. Luckily, It was Beatrice that he really wanted. “Go and pay for your sins, Beatrice.” Beatrice just looked at Clementine and continued walking on Veronica’s side. “Mother.” Veronica looked at Beatrice. “Okay, sir. She will be out in a minute,” she said and turned off the call. Veronica scanned Beatrice's body and then shook her head in disbelief. “What kind of dress is that? Tsk! I didn’t know what that man liked about you!” Beatrice tightened her fist. Her lips curled up. She tried to say a word. ‘This is for your father, Beatrice.’ “Luckily he is wealthy.” Veronica puffed a breath. “Go on! A car is already waiting for you outside the hospital. Make sure to make Mr. Bruce adores you more, Beatrice. Don’t disappoint me! This is for your father! Do you want him to die?” Beatrice's eyes instantly became teary. She never wanted to marry Mr. Bruce. But what can she do? That man was taking advantage of them! “Huh! Looks like she doesn’t want to help. What a shameful woman! You never cared about your father!” Clementine blurted. “Beatrice?! Is it true?!’ “N-No, mother. I will marry him. I-I promised you. I will come back here with the money we need.” Veronica smirked. “Of course! You should. If you don't, you can go to hell and never face us again! I will never let you see my husband again! Alive or dead!” Beatrice's tears fell down but she immediately wiped them. “I-I won’t disappoint you, mother,” she said in a rattling voice. “Go now! Time is running!” She nodded and walked outside of the room. She cannot stop crying thinking that she will be going to a stranger’s home. She instantly felt dirty thinking that she was not like the other people who sell for pleasure to any man. Beatrice was a virgin and she had never been in a relationship. Also, she doesn’t know the man. She just knows that he came from a wealthy family lusting for her. “Beatrice!” Javier saw Beatrice near the hospital exit door. Beatrice stopped and looked at him. “J-Javier!” Beatrice ran to Javier and hugged him. Javier was taken back at first but immediately fixed his composure. “I’m scared. I don’t want this!” Javier sighed. If only he could do anything for her, he would pay for everything. But he was just a servant to them. “I can help you run away.” Beatrice woke up from her senses. She removed herself from Javier and shook her head. “I-I can’t. I’m sorry.” She wiped her tears and turned her back on Javier. “Okay!” Javier stopped Beatrice. “I will go with you.” Beatrice looked at Javier with hesitation. She could see the seriousness in his expression. Beatrice smiled. At least someone was with her. She knew that Javier won’t let her be endangered. They both went outside of the hospital. Beatrice saw a black small limousine that was parked in front of the hospital. It is not right because it was for ambulances only, but guards are letting them park. A man went out from the front seat when they were out already. “Miss Lichter, the master is already waiting for you at the mansion.” A man wearing a black suit with white gloves opened the back door of the car. There were traces of wrinkles already but his aura was still strong. Just by his look, he could make anyone tremble. “Please get inside now, Miss.” Beatrice gulped and held onto Javier's arms. She was pulling him to the car too but the man stopped her. “You are the only one he’s expecting, Miss.” Javier frowned. “Huh? No! I cannot let her go with you!” The man looked at Beatrice. “Master will not like it, Miss. This might affect your father’s surgery.” Beatrice sighed and let go of Javier's arms. “P-Please, Javier. I can do this. Don’t worry.” “But Beatrice! You don’t know them,” Javier said worriedly. “It’s okay.” Beatrice smiled at him and went inside the car. Javier couldn’t do anything but let Beatrice go. He glared at the man. “Remember this. I will come to you if something bad happens to her!” The man just smirked. Then he went inside the car too. “Drive.” Beatrice took a deep breath. She tried to stop her tears again as Javier’s figure slowly faded from her eyes. Her hands were trembling and her heart was pounding. What could be waiting for her there? Who was this man wanting to marry her?

Chapter 3: Soon-to-be

The car entered through a tall gate made of steel. Beatrice could see from inside how high the wall was. And she couldn’t help but tremble as she saw men in black suits holding long guns. What would they need it for? 

‘You’ll be okay, Beatrice. This is for your father,’ she thought to herself. Beatrice had been trying to calm herself down. Her hands keep on trembling and she keeps on breathing hard because her heartbeats are fast. The car was cold but she could feel herself sweating. She was not crying anymore, but the more she got near the stranger's house, the more her fears grew. ‘It will be done soon. You just need the money.’ 

Beatrice closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Her father teaches her to take deep and long breaths. He said that it would help her calm down and it was true. Every time Beatrice felt scared or stressed, she closed her eyes and took a long deep breath. She does it until she calms down. Beatrice felt that the car stopped so she opened her eyes. The first thing she saw was the fountain on her left side. It has a Greek angel statue in the center that was holding a pitcher. The water comes out from there. 

“Miss,” the man called her. 

Beatrice looked at her left side. The door was already open so she went out from there. The night was cold and the moon was dazzling in the sky. But Beatrice couldn’t feel the beauty of the night because of the men in front of the door. They were also holding long guns and looking intently at their surroundings. As if they were ready anytime if someone attacked them. 

“Follow me, Miss,” the man said again. 

Beatrice nodded. The man walked inside the enormous door. The first thing Beatrice saw was the big chandelier hanging on the ceiling. Yes, they had a chandelier in their house, but not like this. It was like a set of diamonds hanging! Also, the place was bright but something felt odd. She cannot see any maids inside. Is it because it was nearly midnight? 

They walked up the big staircase. Beatrice couldn’t help but be amazed at the gold design of the handrails. It looked like the master of this mansion had an eye on art too. The wall had paintings hanging. They were legit paintings and not only pictures when Beatrice checked them. She stopped walking when they reached the top floor. There was a big painting of a woman with blonde hair. Her blue eyes were shining even though it was only on the painting. But something felt wrong. The woman looked like her. 

“Master Bruce created that art,” the man said while looking at the art too. Beatrice almost gasped and looked at him. He smiled at her. “Sorry to rattle you, Miss. But we don’t have time to look at the paintings tonight. Your father needs you, right?” 

“Ahh. Y-Yes. I’m sorry.” 

He nodded. “Very well. Please follow me and don’t stop.” He bowed and started walking again. 

Beatrice looked at the painting again. Was this woman the reason why Mister Bruce wanted to marry her? She shook her head and followed the butler again. They then stopped in front of the big door again. The man opened it and stood on the side while pointing his hand inside. 

“Please enter, Miss. The master is waiting for you inside.” 

“You are not coming?”

“I will if the master calls me.” 

Beatrice nodded. She peeked inside. She could smell the stinging scent of paint inside, so she covered her nose. She walked inside and the man immediately closed the door. 

Thug! Thug! 

Beatrice's heart throbbed again. There was no one inside. She just saw a canvas at the center of the room and things used for painting on the floor. She realized that it was a studio room. There were finished paintings hanging on the wall and some on the side wall. Beatrice could say that this man had an extreme talent for painting. Everything was beautiful in her eyes. Suddenly, she forgot the reason she was in the mansion. She went near one painting of a woman again. She doesn’t have any clothes but it was beautiful. It doesn’t look embarrassing to her.

“Miss Lichter?” 

Beatrice almost jumped when she heard a deep voice. She immediately looked behind her only to see a man standing near the canvass wearing nothing at all. Beatrice shouted and turned her back again. She couldn’t have a chance to see his face because she panicked about seeing his body. 

“What are you doing, you pervert?! Where are your clothes?!” she said, panicking. It was her first time seeing a man without any clothes. Was he out of his mind?! He was expecting her but he went out without any clothes?! Beatrice tried to calm down and closed her eyes. But the first thing she saw was the long and big thing hanging in his center. She heard him laugh and just added more of her agitation. ‘Is he happy showing his ‘thing’ to me?! Crazy!’

“You don’t need to be scared, Miss Lichter. You are here because you are accepting my proposal, right?” Mr. Bruce said. 

Beatrice opened her eyes again. She couldn’t look back at him so she just nodded her head. “Y-Yes. I am.” 

“But I heard you’re not accepting it? Why the change of heart?” 

Beatrice tightened her fist. “D-Didn’t my mother already tell you about it?” she asked back. She doesn’t have the heart to talk with him. She wanted it to be fast and done already. She doesn’t want to be left alone with this psycho man in a room. Especially if he doesn’t wear anything. Mr. Bruce didn’t answer her. Beatrice was feeling frustrated only and thought that she was being toyed with by the man. But she almost stopped breathing and her body froze when he touched her arms. She couldn’t move and look at him because she was worried to see his body again. “W-What are you doing?” 

“But I want to hear it from you, Beatrice,” he whispered in Beatrice's ears. 

Beatrice gulp. She could feel the hair on her nape standing because of the warm breath hitting her skin. “G-Go away!” She tried to remove his hand from her and step forward. But the man turned her around instead and locked his hands on her body. Beatrice's eyes widened when she felt his hard thing on her tummy. She tried to resist but the man pulled her closer to his body. Feeling it more even. 

That time, Beatrice felt like cold water was poured on her. No. Was this place getting hotter or was her body reacting to that thing sticking in her tummy? 

Chapter 4: Meeting him

Beatrice felt her time stop. She couldn’t find any words to say to him. It felt like her tongue was cut out and she didn’t know what to say anymore. ‘What was that thing?!’ Beatrice kept on asking herself. She was terrified and shocked at the same time. But this man with his big green eyes was just looking at her as if he was enjoying her expressions. She could see his eyes smiling while he was grinning too. Her heart skipped and her breathing became hard. She wanted to push him but her body was frozen too. Indeed, this man was gorgeous. His nose was pointed as if it was molded. He was like the paintings she had just looked at earlier. His hair was not long, but it was curly and was adding more of his strong features. Too gorgeous for a man to be real. 

“You look tense, Miss Lichter? What are you worried about?” Mateo asked, not minding their situation. He even looked at Beatrice's lips and his eyes immediately twinkled. He immediately had the urge to kiss her, but he tried to stop himself as much as possible. That was why he almost pinched Beatrice’s back. 

Feeling the pain, Beatrice went back to her senses. Her eyes widened when she saw Mateo looking at her lips. He even wet his lips with his tongue. ‘What was he thinking?!’ Beatrice panicked. She pushed Mateo and slapped him hard on the face. 

“Pervert!” Beatrice shouted. She tried not to look down as much as possible. 

Mateo was shocked. No woman had ever tried to hurt him like that. Most of them are crawling to his feet just to be noticed by him. And this woman slapped him? Mateo looked hard at Beatrice. 

“Do you want to die?” 

Beatrice was stunned. Because of her emotions, she forgot who this man was. Her mouth opened and her expression softened. She looked away. “I-I’m sorry. I-I didn’t–” 

“Of course. You didn’t,” Mateo cut Beatrice's words. “Let me remind you, Miss Lichter. Not because I wanted you, you have the right to do that to me. Try slapping me again and not only you will know what kind of a man I am, but your family too,” he said with full authority and vengeance. 

Beatrice's knees trembled as she looked into his eyes.  No. Not only her knees. She was terrified now to the point that her hands were trembling again. Suddenly, he had turned into something terrifying now. His eyes were like knives already cutting her. And his words were true and full of authority. Her breathing again became hard and her heart beat faster. She turned her back and held on tight to the skirt of her dress. She tried calming herself but Mateo touched her arms again and turned her around again. 

“Why are you turning your back on me?!” Mateo roared. 

Beatrice cried. “I-I’m sorry! Please! I didn’t mean to!” she begged. If only she had not been thinking that this man was naked, she would have kneeled on him for forgiveness. “I-I didn’t mean to hurt you! I’m sorry!” 

Mateo frowned. His heart skipped when he saw Beatrice’s tears. He wiped her tears mindlessly using his right thumb. He couldn’t explain the excitement he felt. In his mind, he wanted to pull Beatrice into his room and tie her up while he was painting her in tears. Oh, what a sight it would be! Mateo’s grip tightened more on Beatrice's arms. He saw that she reacted just like he wanted. He grabbed her nape. 

Beatrice felt her world had already fallen as Mateo’s face got near to her. He was about to kiss her! But she dared not to move because the man was like a monster when he shouted. She was used to her stepmother’s constant blabbing at her, but she was not like Mateo. This man was like he was about to kill her by just looking at her! Beatrice closed her eyes and waited. She waits even though she doesn’t want to. But she never felt anything stuck on her lips. Instead, she felt Mateo’s grip loosen on her arms. She opened her eyes and saw Mateo was turning his back on her. She immediately turned her back too, before she could see anything from him. She went near the window. 

“Wait for me here,” Mateo said. 

Beatrice did not answer. She waited until she heard a door open and closed. Then she let out a deep breath and sat down on the floor. She never felt any pain while she was at the hospital. But this time? She felt like a car overran her body. Beatrice cried herself out. She wanted to go home but she couldn’t. ‘This is for my father. This is for him.’

Not long ago, Mateo went back to the room. He was already wearing pants and a t-shirt. He saw Beatrice was already sitting on the floor, that's why he shook his head. He did not mean to terrify Beatrice earlier. He was just overwhelmed seeing her. 

Mateo sat in the lounge area in his studio. “Come here,” he said. Beatrice looked at her with hesitation. He tried to be soft as much as possible. And he thinks it worked because she slowly stood up while drying her cheeks. She sat on the sofa in front of him. A small glass table with a glass of martini on the top was intercepting them. Mateo could see that Beatrice's hands were still shaking. He shook his head. ‘I shouldn’t have done that.’ 

“I-I’m sorry again,” Beatrice said in a broken voice. Her head was looking down and not daring to look at him again. 

Mateo’s eyebrows arched and he sighed. “It’s okay. It was my fault too. It’s already midnight. We should start talking now.” 

Beatrice looked at Mateo. “Yes.” 

“You came here. Does that mean you are accepting my proposal?” 

Beatrice nodded. She tried to calm herself now. She needed to do this for her father. “Y-Yes. I am. But I want you to help me first.” 

Mateo smirked. He knew their family situation and he used her to get Beatrice. Yes. He has been adorning Beatrice for a while. He saw him only once at an event at their company. Beatrice was there and he was instantly smitten by her. It was because she looked entirely like his ex-wife. His dead wife. 

“I heard what happened, Miss Lichter. But are you really sure now? You even ran away just not to accept me.” 

Beatrice's lips curled up. Looked like this man knew everything. Everyone knew that Bruce’s family was filthy rich. But not many knew the master of the family, Mateo Bruce. This was the reason why her stepmother was eager to accept the proposal. Because by just being Beatrice as the wife of Mateo Bruce, their lavish life would never end. 

“M-My father. He is my only family member now. I cannot afford to lose him. B-But we don’t have any money now for his medical bill.” 

Mateo smirked. “Are you selling yourself to me now?” 

Beatrice was stupefied. “H-Huh?” 

“You are accepting my marriage proposal in exchange for money, right?” He grinned. 

Beatrice's grip on her dress tightened as she realized what he meant. She looked down. Yes. She knew she could be compared to anyone who sells pleasure for money. But what can she do? It was true no matter how she wanted to deny it. She was comparable to them. Her eyes started to water again but she stopped them. 

“I-I need this, Mister Bruce. Please,” Beatrice said. Leaving her ego away. 

Mateo rested his back on the chair. “Your wish is my command.” 

Beatrice took a deep breath. That night, she knew it was her end. She sold herself to the devil. 

Chapter 5: He is safe

After Beatrice and Mateo talked, he immediately ordered Amadeus, his butler, to pay for David Lichter’s hospital bill. That night, David was sent to BMH and started his operation immediately. The surgery will be a long operation. It will take up to twelve hours. 

“Thank you, Mister. My husband will live!” Veronica said with tears in her eyes. 

Amadeus smiled. “You should thank your daughter.” 

Beatrice looked away. “I-I’ll go to the cafeteria.” 

“Hmph! Yes. You should. Bring mother some coffee!” Clementine's second. 

“Ah, you don’t have to, Miss Lichter. We have already provided a room for your family. You can rest there, Mrs. Lichter. As you wait for your husband,” Amadeus interrupted. 

BMH was not just a hospital. It also had hotel-like rooms for very important people waiting for their sick family. Having this, families are one building away from their loved ones. 

Clementine raised her eyebrows. She never liked it when someone was favoring Beatrice. Veronica noticed it and she stopped her. Clementine crossed her arms and looked hard at Beatrice. 

“You nice man of you, Mister. We will go there,” Veronica said. 

Amadeus bowed. “I must go now, Mrs. Lichter.” He looked at Beatrice. “Miss Lichter. I will accompany you first to your room here before I go.” 

“Me?” 

“Yes. The master asked you to have your own room. It’s on the top floor of this hospital.” 

Beatrice's eyes widened in shock. She just wanted some air away from her stepmother and stepsister. But she can wait outside the surgery room and sleep on the waiting chairs. 

Veronica gasped. “What?! Where will you put us? Why are you not accompanying us too?” she blurted. Then she glared at Beatrice too. She cannot believe the butler of Mr. Bruce himself favored Beatrice that much. It should be them that they are taking care of. 

“Mr. Bruce wanted me to take care of everything for Miss Lichter. Some staff will come here to guide you.” 

“No! You should accompany us! Not her!” Veronica added. 

Amadeus was confused but he managed to keep himself. He could see the jealousy in their eyes as they looked at Beatrice. He shook his head silently. Thinking how they'd been unfair to her because Beatrice was just looking down. 

“Y-Yes,” Beatrice said and looked at Amadeus. “I’m okay. I can manage myself.” She forced a smile.

“I am sorry. But this was an order that came from my master. I cannot disobey his words.” Amadeus then pointed his hands. “If you please?” 

Beatrice was hesitant. She looked at her stepmother and stepsister who were already glaring at her. She could feel their sharp looks at her, so she immediately looked away. This was not much like Mateo's. She could take their glares at her. But she doesn’t want to disobey him again. 

“O-Okay.” 

“Thank you.” 

Beatrice started walking. She tried to relax even though she could hear their words. 

“Mom! Do something! Why are they favoring her?!” Clementine cried like a teen. 

“No. Let her be. We cannot spoil this night for your father. I will talk with Mr. Bruce myself when we see him,” Veronica answered. 

Beatrice heard it but she tried not to look at them anymore. They had been like this to her since they all lived together. Even her own father always favored them over her. She doesn’t know why. But she always felt she was not part of the family. 

They went to the next building using the bridge connecting the hospital. Beatrice oversaw the lights of the city as they walked to the next building. Then they entered an elevator. Beatrice was quiet until they reached the room. 

Beatrice couldn’t help but be amazed when they entered a big two-door room. There was a bed in the center with a fine bedsheet. A big window on the side and her own bathroom. It even had a big television in front of the bed. 

“You can stay here, Miss Lichter. Your personal nurse and doctor will come here to examine you. You will also have your personal assistant to assist you with everything you need,” Amadeus said. 

“What? Why would I need a nurse and a doctor?” 

“You also got in an accident. The master wanted to make sure that you were okay.” 

Beatrice was stunned. She never had this kind of treatment from anyone. Yes, they had maids. But she could be compared to them whenever her stepmother was at their house. 

“B-But I’m okay. I just need a rest.” 

“No, Miss Lichter. I must go now. Please wait for them.”

Amadeus bowed and then went out of the room. Beatrice was left inside the room still amazed and hesitant. But what can she do? She went to bed and laid her tired body there. 

‘Father, I hope you are doing okay now. I will be waiting for your recovery.’

Not long had passed. Her room opened and a nurse and a doctor came in. They checked up on Beatrice and examined her. She was okay except for some bruises on her body. Then they left. The next one came were two staff who brought her meal and new clothes. Beatrice suddenly felt she was like a princess. But she knew that it would not always be like that. 

Beatrice was already lying on her bed. Her room was already dark and only the lampshade on her side was open. She was trying to sleep but she kept on thinking about her father. When he followed her, he was begging her not to go because of her mother. His father doesn’t want to marry her to a stranger. But he doesn’t have a choice because their resort was almost bankrupt and their house will be loaned by the bank. He doesn’t want their house to be taken away from them because his mother’s memories are there too. Well, her father was a good man. Beatrice could see that he really loved her and her mother. But sometimes he was always brainwashed by her stepmother. And she had little memory of her mother, so she didn’t want their house to be taken away from them. Her father had promised her that he would not force her to marry a stranger anymore. But the accident happened. 

‘I hope you understand this, Dad. I am doing this for us.’

Chapter 6: Old widowed man

After the surgery, David was still unconscious. The Lichter's then never left the hospital for David. Beatrice was at least relieved because Mateo was not bothering her while she was still waiting for her father. It’s as if he was being considerate. And Beatrice was thankful for that because she was not yet ready again to face him. 

Beatrice was having her breakfast in the room that Amadeus provided her. She had never left the room since she came here. There was an hourly update for the nurses about her father. So, Veronica and Clementine decide to visit her in the room. 

Beatrice heard a loud knock on her door. She immediately stood up and opened the door. “Mother? Why are you–” 

“Oh, stop. Let us in,” Veronica said, and did not even wait for Beatrice to open the door. She let herself in and Clementine followed her. 

Beatrice stood up by her side while waiting for her stepmother's words. She was still holding the bread she was eating. She put her hands behind her to hide them from them. 

Jealousy. That was the first thing Clementine did when she couldn’t believe that this room was much better than their room! Beatrice had her own bed while she and her mother were sharing a bed! And when did she bring clothes? As far as she remembered, it was only their clothes that the maids brought here! 

“This is unacceptable!” Clementine blurted. She glared at Beatrice. 

“What a vulgar woman are you, huh, Beatrice?! Are you not ashamed of yourself?” said Veronica. “You are not even married yet to Mister Bruce but you are already indulging in his assets?!” 

Beatrice was embarrassed by what she said. “B-But it was Mister Bruce who asked for this, mother.” She tried to convince her. She didn’t ask for that. Beatrice just didn’t want to disobey Mister Bruce’s order. 

“And so? When he asks you to run naked on the street, will you follow him?” 

Beatrice was startled. “Of course not, mother!” 

Clementine puffed a breath. “Liar! You like this, that's why you will do anything for sure!” 

Beatrice felt like her heart would burst. She looked at them confused. She was just helping her family. Why does it look like it was her fault that a man was favoring her? When, in fact, she never even wanted this in the first place. 

“What? Are you disrespecting me now?” Veronica slowly walked to Beatrice. 

In every step Veronica took, it was like Beatrice's heart was throbbing too. She looked down. “O-Of course not, mother– ahh!” Beatrice was stunned when Veronica slapped her in the face. She touched her cheeks and looked at her surprise. She even saw Clementine grinning happily as if she was enjoying what her mother was doing to her. 

“Wake up, Beatrice! That man was only after your body! Don’t ever think of liking it because for sure you will not!” 

Clementine laughed. “Yes! I heard that Mister Bruce was an old widowed man. I wouldn’t be surprised if something ever happened to both of you that night.” 

“No! That is not true! He did not touch me!” Beatrice protested. 

“Shut up!” Veronica halted Beatrice. She leaned more at Beatrice until he was only an inch away from her. “Now, I don’t care what he wants from you. As long as my husband wakes up again. We will have money again. I will let any man fuck you however they want it!” 

“Mother!” Beatrice couldn’t believe what she had just said. How can she be so brutal on her? To the point that she was willing to give her to any man? Was it because she was not her true daughter? Beatrice's eyes started to water. Her lips were moving uncontrollably because of the feelings she was trying to hold. 

“Now get your things out of this room because Clementine will stay here now!” Veronica ordered. 

Clementine gasped happily. “Really, mom? Waah! I’m happy!” She ran onto the bed and laid her body there. She didn’t even bother to look at Beatrice who was already crying now. 

Beatrice looked at them with pain in her eyes. Veronica did not even look at her after her orders to her. Beatrice forced herself to go out of the room and wailed outside of the room. How can they be so unfair? Veronica’s words were like a knife piercing her chest. Didn’t she know that she never wanted it? If it was not only about her father, she wouldn’t even go to that hell mansion! 

When Beatrice recovered, she walked away from the room and went to the ICU where her father was already at. Wearing a hospital jacket and mask. She went inside to see her father. Beatrice sat down on the stool and scanned David’s face. She then started crying as she saw a lot of cables that were connected to David’s body. She holds his hand.

“D-Dad. Please wake up. Please. Don’t leave me yet. I’m begging you. I-I miss you so much, Dad.” Beatrice stopped and wiped her eyes. “I… I don’t want to marry him. Dad, I’m scared. Please wake up. I-I don’t know what to do.” 

Beatrice stood inside. She kept on talking with him while crying. She did it until she fell asleep at his side. Beatrice then woke up to someone stroking her hair. And when she opened her eyes, she saw David was already awake and looking at her. 

“Dad! You’re awake!” Beatrice said happily and stood up. She immediately pushed the button for the doctor. “Thank you, dad! Thank you!” she cried. 

David smiled. He still couldn’t say any words because there was still a tube in his throat. His doctor came immediately and checked up on him. 

Beatrice then was happy as she looked at her father. She was relieved now, knowing that he was awake. Not long ago, her stepmother and stepsister went in and rushed to David. 

“Honey! You are awake! Thank God!” Veronica cried. 

“Father! I’m happy that you are back with us!” Clementine said. 

Beatrice then felt like she was an outcast again. She just stood by the side waiting for the doctors. She could see her father looking at her and she was just smiling at him. At least her sacrifice was not wasted. Her father will live. 

Chapter 7: The kiss

“Thank you for coming here, Javier,” Beatrice said as she took her bag from Javier. When her father woke up and her room was taken out from her, she asked Javier to come and get her clothes. Her father was still weak, so they still needed to stay in the hospital.

Javier sighed. He could see the tiredness on Beatrice's face. “You should go home instead of staying here. Your father will be taken care of for sure.”

“I can’t leave him.”

“Then where will you sleep here? Your father still needs to stay in the ICU.”

Beatrice looked around her. They are in the hospital’s waiting area. “I can. Here.”

“You shouldn’t!”

“Why? This is okay. Look.” Beatrice patted the chair. “It might be hard because it is made of steel, but that will be okay. I have my bag.”

“Beatrice. You shouldn’t let them be hard on you. You might not be saying anything to me now. For sure, your mother said bad things to you again.”

Beatrice looked away. Her friend knew him well and she couldn’t hide her true feelings for him. Why not? Javier had seen every unfair treatment that Veronica did to her. Javier had become his savior every time she was hurt. That was why he was often scolded by Veronica too.

“I’ll be okay. Don’t worry.” She forced a smile. “You should go now. It will be dark soon.”

“I don’t want to leave you here like this.”

“I told you I’m–”

“Miss Lichter. What is the meaning of this?”

Beatrice looked in front when she heard a familiar voice. Her eyes widened when she saw Mateo looking at her with a frown on his face. Suddenly, she felt her heartbeat beating fast like she was running. She didn’t do anything but she felt like she had wronged Mateo again because of the way he looked at them. Especially when he looked hard at Javier as if he was going to eat him. Beatrice immediately stood up and faced Mateo.

“M-Mister Bruce! What are you doing here?”

“I am asking you. Why are you asking me back?”

Javier stood up. “Who is this, Beatrice?”

Mateo’s one eyebrow arched and looked at Javier. “I should be the one asking that.”

Beatrice didn’t know what to do. Javier and Mateo were now glaring at each other. She was confused because Mateo was acting as if it was wrong she was talking with Javier. Beatrice gathered up her courage and held Mateo’s hands.

“You can leave now, Javier. Please take care.”

“What? Wait, Beatrice!” Javier called Beatrice. But she was already pulling the man who was still glaring at him. ‘Who was he?’

Beatrice felt like her chest would burst. She couldn’t believe that this was happening. What did Mateo even think?

Mateo, too, was still mad because of what he had seen. He didn’t know why his blood boiled when he saw Beatrice talking with a man. If she didn’t stop them, he probably killed that man on the spot.

“Stop.”

Beatrice continued walking. They were already in the hallway of the hospital. She doesn’t know where she will bring Mateo, but she needs to ensure that Javier will be safe from him.

“Miss Lichter!”

Mateo stopped walking. Because Beatrice was walking fast. The sudden stopping of Mateo made her almost fall on the floor. But Mateo attentively grabbed her by her waist. Beatrice gasped loudly as she felt the hard body of Mateo on her back. Her face went red when she remembered the night they met each other. She immediately removed Mateo’s hand from her and looked at him. He was not glaring anymore, which made her relaxed.

“T-Thank you.”

Mateo fixed his suit. “Who was that? You’re still not answering me.”

Beatrice frowned and looked around. They were in the hallway near the hospital rooms. She could see the nurse at the station. Some of them were looking at their position. Not on her, but on Mateo.

“It was Javier. My best friend,” she answered in a low tone.

“Really? He doesn’t look at you like you are his friend.”

Beatrice rolled her eyes. “I don’t know why you are interrogating me, Mister Bruce. But Javier is only my best friend. Okay?” Mateo did not answer and only looked at her. She felt weird when his eyes fell on her lips. “W-What are you doing here?”

“I owned this.”

“Really?”

“Yes. It’s my last name. Don’t you know?”

Beatrice's mouth opened. ‘That’s why Amadeus sent me to the top floor. I thought he was just filthy rich.’

“Actually, I was here to check up on your father. I heard he had already woken up.”

“Yes. Thank you for your help.”

“ Looks like you are forgetting something, Miss Lichter.”

Beatrice sighed. “I know. Can we wait until my father recovers? He’s still weak.”

“Of course. Now, can we go to my future father-in-law?”

Beatrice looked at Mateo in amusement. He was already calling her father a father-in-law. If they were a normal couple, she would be delighted. But she felt like Mateo was up to something. She gasped when she remembered that her father didn't know about it.

“Wait! We can’t go there yet!”

“Why?”

“H-He still doesn’t know about it.”

Mateo simpered. Just like what he thought, Beatrice hadn’t told her father. That was why he came here.

“Where are you going?” Beatrice panicked when she saw Mateo walking away from her. She followed him reluctantly. She was praying that Mateo was not going to his father. She still didn't want to let him know until they went home. But when they entered the elevator, she was shocked when Mateo pushed the button on the eighth floor where the ICU was located. “M-Mister Bruce, please. Don’t do this.”

“I can’t wait that long, Miss Lichter.”

“But why? I am not running away! I will do it! I will marry you!”

Mateo’s ear rang when he heard Beatrice. He felt like he was begging Beatrice to marry him. He smirked and shook his head. He slowly looked at Beatrice with a grimace on his face. His pride couldn’t take what he had just said.

Beatrice was intimidated by the way Mateo looked at her. She noticed that he was advancing toward her and that was why she stepped back. She did it until she felt the cold wall of the elevator. Her breath stopped as she felt Mateo’s hands on her sides.

“Beatrice…” Mateo whispered.

Beatrice felt like all her hair stood up. She gulped and looked at Mateo’s side. She couldn’t look into his eyes because it made her knees weak. She put her hands on her chest, thinking it would help her to have courage. She closed her eyes when she felt Mateo’s face nearing hers. Then she felt his breathing on her neck, which gave her more shivers. She felt her body turning up like she was having a fever.

“M-Mister Bruce.”

Mateo blew on Beatrice's neck. He smirked when he saw her tiny hair stand up. “You smell so good, Miss Lichter,” he said. Then he gave her a kiss on her neck. When she didn’t move, he did it again. This time, Beatrice reacted and tried pushing him but he didn’t move.

“P-Please…” Beatrice trembled. It terrified her to think what Mateo could do to her in that place. Right there in the elevator. This place was owned by Mateo. He could kill anyone if he wanted. Or molest her.

“Remember this, Beatrice. You needed me as much as I wanted you.” Mateo smelled Beatrice for the last time. He never thought that he would like the lavender scent. Then he slowly stood up straight. Beatrice was hugging herself while trembling. He grinned. Seeing Beatrice like this made him feel excited. “You wanted this marriage too. And you will want me too.”

Beatrice looked at Mateo confused. His eyes were burning with desires that just added more terror to her. Also, she couldn’t understand what he meant in his last line. But the door of the elevator had already opened. So she went out of it rushing.

Chapter 8: Meeting the family

Beatrice let out a deep long breath when she turned on the left hallway. She rested her back and head on the wall, then closed her eyes.

‘What just happened?!’

Beatrice touched her chest. She could feel her heart throbbing as if someone was chasing her. She tried taking a deep breath again and slowly until she calmed down.

“He is crazy,” she whispered. Then she touched her neck, still feeling the goosebump she felt earlier. Why did she have a weird feeling when Mateo blew on her neck? It was like something was crawling from her neck and going through her chest. To her tummy and her… “Urgh!” she groaned and started walking again. She shouldn’t let Mateo get into her system. Into her mind. She must not be scared of a psycho man. Yet what he said was true. She needed him as much as he wanted her. They liked using each other. Thinking about it, they were like partners, so Beatrice hadn’t been scared of the man.

“What are you doing here?”

Beatrice noticed her stepmother and sister were still in the room with her father. David was already sleeping and the two were sitting on the couch. They were looking at her in confusion, so she tried to be herself again.

“A-Ahm. Someone wanted to see dad.”

“Well, father is already sleeping. He cannot entertain whoever he is, so let him come tomorrow,” said Clementine. “And why is your face red? Did you do something embarrassing again?”

“Huh?” Beatrice touched her cheeks. It was hot. She immediately shook her head. “N-No. It might be because of the weather. I will tell him to come back tomorrow–”

Before she could even finish her line, the door opened and Mateo went in.

Clementine gasped and stood up when she saw Mateo. Her mouth was opened wide as she was astonished by his appearance.

Veronica was equally stunned as her daughter saw the man in front of them.

“What are you doing here?” Beatrice whispered to Mateo. He just looked at her with a grin on his face. Beatrice looked hard at him.

“Beatrice. Who is he?” Clementine asked and went to Beatrice's side. She was already smiling sweetly and even clung her arms to Beatrice. “Hi! I am Clementine. Beatrice’s sister.”

Mateo hemmed. “Nice meeting you, Miss Lichter.” He took Clementine's hands and kissed the back of her palm.

Clementine giggled shyly, thinking that Mateo was stunned by her beauty.

“Well! Who is this young and gorgeous man, Beatrice?” Veronica went to their front.

Mateo looked at Veronica. He also took her hand and kissed the back of her palm. Veronica giggled too.

Beatrice then was feeling awkward as Clementine was still clinging to her arms as if they were really that close to each other. She was also amazed that Clementine called her sister in front of Mateo. But she didn’t move and let Clementine do what she wanted.

“I think you already know me, Mrs. Lichter.”

Beatrice looked at Veronica. “A-Ahm. Mother. He is Mister Bruce. H-He was… It was…” She couldn’t finish her words. She looked at her mother who was waiting for her words and her sister. Mateo noticed it so he butts in.

“I am Mateo Bruce. I’ll be Beatrice’s soon-to-be husband.”

Beatrice felt like a bomb had been thrown at their place. A complete silence went on and no one was talking. She couldn’t look at her stepmother and sister. So she looked down only and waited for their words.

Clementine's jaw almost dropped to the floor. She removed herself from Beatrice and went to Veronica’s side. She kept shifting her look at Mateo and Beatrice. ‘This was the man who wanted Beatrice?!’ she thought in astonishment. She was already thinking of what humiliation she would say to Beatrice when they met Mister Bruce. She thought that he was an old bald man with a big tummy and a widow.

“No! You are not him!” Clementine exclaimed.

Veronica touched Clementine's arms. She was also surprised. “T-There might be a misunderstanding, sir. You can’t be Mister Bruce. Are you his son?” Veronica asked.

Mateo looked at them in confusion. “But my father was already dead?”

“N-No. No. No!” Clementine shook her head. She cannot accept that Beatrice was marrying a man like Mateo. It should’ve been her!

“What is wrong, Clementine?” Beatrice asked. Clementine glared at her.

“Shut up!” Clementine blurted out.

Because of her voice, David was awakened. He looked at his family talking with a young man. “M-Mister Bruce?”

All of them looked at David. Beatrice smiled and went to David’s side. While Clementine felt her world collapse. She couldn’t hide the jealousy she was feeling at Beatrice. She then sat down on the couch and wouldn’t stop glaring at Beatrice.

“Dad! You’re awake!”

David smiled at Beatrice. He touched her cheeks. “I’m okay now, my daughter.” He looked at Mateo. “Why is Mister Bruce here?”

“Ahm.” Beatrice stood up straight and looked at Mateo. Mateo then went to their side.

“Mister Lichter. I am delighted that you are okay now.”

“Thank you. But I don’t have a good feeling that you are here.”

“Wait!” Veronica went to the other side of David. “My love, are you saying that he was Mister Bruce? The one who wanted to marry Beatrice?”

David nodded. “Yes. It was him. But I’m sorry, Mister Bruce. I don’t want to force my daughter. If you really like her, I can give you my blessing to court her.”

Mateo smirked. “I think you should talk with your daughter about that.” He looked at Beatrice.

“Why?” David asked and looked at Beatrice.

Beatrice, who was already feeling that she was in a hot seat, looked away. She never got any chance to talk with her father when he woke up. It was only her stepmother and sister who were always talking with him.

“Dad, I need to tell you something–”

“No!” Veronica butted in. She knew that her daughter, Clementine, was affected now. She looked at Clementine, who was glaring at Beatrice. Also, she thought that a man like Mateo would marry her own daughter instead, which would be a great catch for both of them. She wouldn’t think of Beatrice anymore. “There must be a misunderstanding here.”

“What, Mrs. Lichter? Everything is right. Right, Mr. Lichter?” Mateo asked. He had a feeling that Veronica was up to something.

“Wait!” David tried to sit down but his body was still weak. He groaned and took a deep breath. Then he looked at Beatrice. “Beatrice, what is the meaning of this?”

Beatrice looked at David. Her eyes were already wet. She didn’t want to tell him about it but she cannot break her deal with Mateo. “D-Dad. I accepted Mister Bruce’s proposal. So you can be treated.”

David's eyes widened. At first, he was blinded by Mateo’s offer to him. Their business was on the brink of being bankrupt. He couldn’t let their house loose from the bank because it was already on the mortgage. But when he saw his daughter’s tears, his guilt ate him up. He was about to tell Beatrice that he would break his deal with Mateo but she already ran away from home. And then they got into an accident.

“Beatrice… You don’t have to. I-I…” David shook his head and looked at Mateo. “Mister Bruce, please. I-I will do anything to pay you. I’m sorry. My daughter was just–”

“I’m sorry, Mister Lichter. It is not you who will decide it,” Mateo stopped David and then looked at Beatrice.

“Beatrice, my daughter.” David touched Beatrice's hand. “I’m s-sorry. I promise that I will–”

“Dad. It’s okay.” Beatrice forced a smile. “I needed to do that for you. I can’t lose you too, Dad.”

“Huh! As if?!” Clementine blurted out. “You’re a whore! I will not accept this madness! Mom!” She would never let Beatrice marry a man like Mateo. It should be her!

Chapter 9: She want him

At that moment, Beatrice didn’t know what to say. They were all shocked when Clementine started her tantrums. Well, it was not really that shocking for Beatrice because Clementine was always like that. Every time Clementine saw that Beatrice was being favored over her, she would do anything just to have more than Beatrice.

“Is there something wrong, Miss Lichter?” Mateo asked confusedly.

Veronica hemmed. “Ahm. I think Mister Bruce should come at another time.” She went to Mateo’s side and touched his arm. “Come. I will guide you through the door.”

But Mateo removed her hand and did not move. He sighed. “Okay. I will come back again when Mister Lichter is really okay.” He looked at David again. “You should probably talk with your daughter, Mister Lichter. And I want to remain on what’s on our deal. You wouldn't disappoint me, right?” he said with a tone of menace.

David gulped. He knew exactly what Mateo meant. His grip on Beatrice's hand tightened and he then didn’t say any words. Mateo then left the room.

“I will not accept this! Mother! Do something!” Clementine cried. She walked near the bed of David.

“What is wrong, Clementine?” Beatrice asked.

“Shut up! Why did you not tell us what Mateo Bruce looked like?” said Veronica.

Beatrice frowned. She couldn’t understand what she meant. “Didn’t you know who Mateo Bruce was?”

“Will we ask it if we know?”

“David harrumphed loudly. “Beatrice did not do any wrong, Veronica. She also didn’t know who he was. And there’s nothing wrong with it.”

“But, my love! That would be unfair to Clementine. She is our firstborn. Plus, Beatrice never wanted to marry, right, Beatrice?”

“Huh?” Beatrice looked at Veronica in confusion. The two were looking hard at her. “Ahm. Y-Yes. But…”

“I think it’s okay. I want to be married to Mateo Bruce instead. You can talk with him, father? Right?”

David sighed. “I don’t want you two to be married to him. I will talk to him.”

“But, dad!” Clementine exclaimed.

“That is impossible, David! Mister Bruce helped us with your operation!” Veronica.

“It’s a mistake that I brought this up. When I recover, I will pay him.”

“And how will you do that? Sell our mansion? Our business? No!” Veronica disagreed with David. “I will never allow it! Let’s go, Clementine!” She pulled Clementine.

“But, mother!”

“Stop it!”

They shut the door hard. Beatrice felt like the whole room shook. David saw the disappointment in Beatrice’s face.

“Sit down, Beatrice.”

Beatrice followed her father. She took the stool to the side and sat down. Then David touched her hands.

“I’m sorry. I-If it was not because of me, this would never have happened. But I never agreed with him, Beatrice. I will never do that. Your mother will hate me,” David pleaded. He meant Beatrice's biological mother, who was already dead.

“I know, Dad. Sorry for running away without hearing your explanation. I-I was worried that you would agree with your wife.”

“I promise, I will talk with Mister Bruce. I will beg if I need to. You don’t have to marry him.”

Beatrice smiled sadly. “But how? I saw him already when his mad, dad. H-He’s not just anyone else. He is Mateo Bruce. What are we to him?”

David was silenced. It was true. Mateo was not an ordinary man. He was the wealthiest in the country. Even the President followed him because of his money. He was like a god to businessmen and politicians. Because when money talks, everyone kneels. Just like him. He was desperate when Mateo talked with him. At first, he was delighted because not everyone had a chance to have a meeting with him. Mateo offered him that he would invest in their business and pay all their debts. But to his surprise, the exchange was to have one of her daughters be married to him. He talked with Veronica and they agreed to let Clementine marry Mateo. He knew that Veronica would agree but Clementine didn’t. Then he learned from Mateo himself that he meant Beatrice.

Mateo wanted Beatrice in the first place. He knew that Beatrice wouldn't like it, so he did not say anything to his daughter. But it was too late because Veronica asked her instead. And now…

“I will do anything I can, Beatrice. Don’t worry.”

Beatrice shook her head. “I’m okay, dad. I did this for you. But what should you do with them?”

“Let’s not think about your mother and sister. You know your sister. She’s always like that.”

“Yes.” Beatrice smiled. “Thank you for coming back to me, Dad. I am glad you are safe now. I thought you would leave me already.”

“I will never do that, my daughter.” David touched Beatrice's cheeks. “I will never leave you alone here.”

Beatrice was relieved now that her father was safe and recovering. That was more important for her. She knew that Mateo would not accept to change their deal. She saw it from his eyes. But there was a little hope in her heart that it would happen.

In the room, Clementine was throwing her things while shouting. She could not accept that Beatrice was to be married to a young and wealthy man like Mateo. She was now regretting that she didn’t accept the proposal when her mother told her about it.

“Mom! Do something! I want to marry Mateo Bruce!” Clementine exclaimed.

Veronica sighed. She was on the couch and massaging her head. “Will you stop and sit down? Doing this will not help us with anything!”

Clementine stopped and sat down on the bed while still frowning. When she calmed down, she stood up and went to her mother. She sat down on the couch facing her. “You need to talk with David, mom. Tell him that I will marry Mateo instead of Beatrice. Just look, if I marry Mateo, you’ll be the wealthiest mother here!”

“Didn’t I ask you in the first place but you declined?!”

Clementine pouted and crossed her arms. “B-Because I thought he was old and… But that’s not the case here. Just tell father about it!”

“Clementine, my daughter. You never learn. Do you think I loved David Lichter the first time we met? Of course not! I did it for us to have a place to live!”

“So you don’t love him now?”

“Of course, I love him already. David is a good man. Plus, he gave us everything. Anyway, never look at the man’s face. Always look after his bank account and then decide. But you didn’t because you are too proud of yourself!”

“Mom!”

“Fine! I will see what I can do. And don’t ever act like that in front of Mister Bruce! You should act like a lady now!”

Clementine smiled sweetly. “Yes, mother!” she said happily. Then she thought about Beatrice who was in the hospital. ‘Mateo is mine now, Beatrice. Don’t ever think of dreaming about him!’

Chapter 10: He is safe

David Lichter’s recovery was fast. After another week in the hospital, he was finally discharged by his doctors. But Mateo still sent them personal nurses for him to be checked 24/7.

As the day passed, Beatrice could feel the tension in their house. Clementine and Veronica kept on asking David if Clementine would marry Mateo instead. But Mateo only wanted Beatrice.

“You!” Clementine faced Beatrice with tears in her eyes. She had just left David's room. Beatrice was going there to give him juice.

“What?”

“What did you do to Mateo Bruce, huh?! Did you really fuck him already? That's why he only wants you?!”

Beatrice gasped. “Watch your words, Clementine! I would never do that! If only I could stop this, I would!”

Clementine smirked in disbelief. “Then prove it. Prove that you didn't want to marry Mateo. Tell him that you will not marry him anymore!”

Beatrice was taken aback. She knew it was impossible because Mateo was firm in his decision. Her hands trembled and she looked away from Clementine. She might want to do what Clementine wanted, but how could she stop a man? She cannot dictate to any human being!

“I knew it! You're a dirty woman!” Clementine shouted and shook Beatrice's hands until the glass of juice fell on the floor.

It was too late before Beatrice could get the glass. It shattered on the floor and the juice spat out in the place. Clementine just glared at her and then pushed her to the floor. She also fell and when Clementine was satisfied, she marched away from Beatrice.

“Beatrice?! What are you doing?!” Veronica exclaimed when she saw Beatrice on the floor. They heard the commotion and that was why she went out of their room.

Beatrice tried to stand up but she grinned when she felt a sharp glass cut her palm. “Ouch!” Blood flowed through her hand.

“Tsk! Why are you not always careful? Can anyone help Beatrice here?!” Veronica shouted. Calling their maids. Then she looked again at Beatrice with a look of disbelief on her face.

Beatrice sighed. Clementine was always like this. And Veronica never cared for her. If she could only order Mateo to stop their marriage, she would do it. She didn't want it in the first place.

Days passed, and David had already recovered. He can now stand up and finally work again. They were having dinner when David told his family about the upcoming engagement party.

“I have an announcement to make,” said David. “Next week, we will have an engagement party at the resort. For Mister Bruce and Beatrice’s wedding.”

“What?! Are you serious, Dad?” Clementine exclaimed. She put down her utensils and it created a loud noise. Veronica touched her hands.

“Clementine, calm down.”

“And you agree with this, Mom? You both know that I want Mateo!”

David looked at Clementine. “We cannot break the deal, Clementine. You know I tried. I begged Mister Bruce that I would pay him instead. But it just angered him more.”

“But he will still marry that woman!” Clementine glared at Beatrice.

Beatrice did not say any words. She was still chewing her meat slowly and she sliced the steak. David looked at her with sadness on his face.

“You should understand that I don’t want it, Clementine. But we cannot do anything not to undo it.”

“No, father! I’m sure that she seduces him well!”

Beatrice stopped what she was doing and looked at Clementine. “What?”

“Stop it, Clementine. Your father will not like it,” Veronica whispered, and tried to calm down Clementine. But she was full of emotions already.

“She seduced him! I’m not surprised now if she already gave her virginity to–”

David hit the table so hard that the utensils and plates almost jumped off of the table. Some food was scattered on the table and they were all silent. Even the maids who were waiting at their side almost jumped in shock because of the loud noise it made.

“I don’t want to hear anything about this anymore!” David looked at Clementine. She immediately looked away from him even though she was spoiled. She still had a fear of him. “I never wanted this to happen. I don’t want my daughters to marry anyone forcefully. But things have happened already and we cannot do anything about them anymore. Beatrice will marry Mateo Bruce. Then we will think about what to do next. You, Clementine. You should know that your sister will never do that! Stop saying things about her and, please, help this family out!”

Clementine sniffed. “B-But I really like Mateo, Dad,” she said in a low voice.

“Stop it. You will never like Mateo Bruce if you just know him well.” David sighed and shook his head. “You know, I am sad that this is happening to us. I don’t want this family to fall down. I promise I will do everything to fix it.”

Clementine cried. She stood up and walked out of the dining room.

“Clementine!” Veronica stood up. “I will just talk with her.”

David nodded at her and then she followed her daughter. Beatrice and David were left out in the dining room. David looked at his daughter and touched her hand.

“Beatrice. I hope you can forgive your sister. You know she was just being emotional.”

Beatrice smiled bitterly. “What can I do? That’s what I always do.” She looked at her father. “You don’t believe her, do you?”

“Of course! I know you well, Beatrice. You are my daughter. You came from me. I know you will never do it. And I am sorry because I cannot do anything now for you to get out of that deal.” David stopped for a second. “I just hope he will not hurt you because I swear. I would not care if he was the most dangerous or powerful man on earth. I will kill him.”

Beatrice laughed. Her father might always favor her stepmother and sister. But he always secretly gave her everything. That’s why she always understands them instead of fighting them. Because she could see how her father was stressed out about their family.

“I don’t want you to get hurt, Dad. Don’t worry. I can manage myself.”

“Thank you. Now, let’s continue eating. I’m still hungry.”

The two continued on eating their meal while talking about the engagement party. It will happen in their resort and will be sponsored by Mateo himself. They will invite a lot of big personalities into the business world and politics. Thinking about it, Beatrice’s anxiety was already eating her up.

‘You’ll be fine, Beatrice. It will be okay.’

In Clementine's room, she was wailing hard and would not marry Mateo. She was on her bed while wetting the pillows with her tears. She felt that David was being unfair to her. That his efforts were not enough to convince Mateo. She really liked Mateo.

“Clementine,” Veronica called her daughter. She sat down on the side of the bed and looked at her. “You should understand your father. He tried.”

“No!” Clementine sat down and faced Veronica. “If he did. Mateo will not choose Beatrice over me! What is so good about her? Huh? She is nothing!”

“I know. And I want you to understand that I also wanted you to get married to him. Doing that, we can own what Mateo has easily.”

Clementine frowned. “But why are you agreeing with the engagement party?”

“Your father cannot do anything now. But he had a plan to make Mateo divorce Beatrice afterward. So, you can wait. If they were divorced already, you can now enter and do your best to get his attention.”

Clementine was stunned because of her mother’s plan. She thought about it carefully and later on, she smiled. “That is a good idea, mother. Plus, Beatrice never wanted him, right?”

“Yes. I will pursue her too to help you.”

Clementine wiped her tears and smiled sweetly at her mother. “Thank you, mom! You are really the best!” she said happily and hugged her.

“Now let’s go back and you should say sorry to your father.”

Clementine nodded. “Okay.” She was relieved now thinking about their great plan. ‘I will let you be happy now, Beatrice. But soon, Mateo will be mine!’

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