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Chapter1
Gemma
The dinof laughter and clinking glasses fade into the background as my father fixes me with his steely gaze. Although nearing sixty, with salt-and-pepper hair, Anthony Caldwell still cuts an imposing figure.
“Gemma, are you listening to me?” His voice sharpens, his frown carving deep lines into his already creased forehead. “We need to finalize the details for your wedding.”
We're hidden in an alcove near the ballroom entrance as guests filter past us into the glittering fundraiser. I swirl the champagne in my glass, watching the bubbles dance and pop before taking a long sip. The bubbles tickle my throat.
I look up at my father, my eyes pleading for understanding. “Father, I've never even met Julian Montague. How can you expect me to marry a complete stranger?”
As always, his unyielding façade remains intact. He takes a deep breath, his face softening slightly.
“I know this is not what you imagined for yourself. But it's what needs to be done. You are a Caldwell, and as such, it is your duty to prioritize the interests of the family over your personal desires.”
“I'm set to graduate top of my class soon,” I say evenly, though my fists clench behind my back. “If you give me a chance at the company, let me use my degree?—”
“We must secure the Montague investment in order to prevent this estate from financial ruin,” my father cuts me off “Whether you agree or not, your role is to ensure they become our partners.”
Although I was born into the Caldwell family, I refuse to conform to outdated beliefs about a woman's role. “And if I refuse?” I ask, meeting Father's stern gaze.
“I see no other option. But take comfort— Julian is often away on business. The marriage will be easy.” Father places a hand on my shoulder, his tone patronizing.
Easy for who? Marrying a man I've never met to save the estate. I bite my tongue to prevent a reckless response. At twenty-three, I know better than to cause a scene, especially at the estate's most important social event of the year.
Father presses his mouth in a hard line and crosses his arms, unmoved.
“I've tried everything,” he states firmly and resolutely. “I'm afraid there is no other choice.” His eyes dart away, unable to meet my pleading look.
His words feel like a slap. Hot tears blur my vision, but I blink them away, balling my fists. I dream of marrying for love, not business. How could he betray me like this? Marrying a stranger to pay off debt, as if I'm chattel? I want to scream at him, make him understand what he's asking me to sacrifice.
“I realize the economic downturn hit our bottom line, and our profits are declining. The changes I propose will–”
Father sighs heavily, running a hand through his hair.
“But what about the investors?” I gesture around the ballroom at the wealthy guests attending the gala. “Can't we secure more funding?”
His shoulders slump in defeat. “The company is in dire straits. The changing weather has affected our crops, and the resort chains continue taking more of our market share each season. We simply cannot compete.”
The Caldwell Estate has been in my family for generations. The place holds all my childhood memories. It's the only remnant of my mother and it means the world to me.
A lump forms in my throat. “It’s our family legacy. I don’t want to lose it.”
“Julian’s investment can save us. Montague hotels and resorts are thriving—with his investment, we could modernize. A marriage alliance promises security for our family and all the people who work here.”
My hands tremble as I grab another champagne from a passing waiter and take a brazen gulp.
“Fine,” I say, forcing a smile. “I'll meet with the wedding planner tomorrow.”
My father looks around the lavish ballroom, scanning every corner. “Another thing—the threats against our family have escalated,” he says in a low voice.
My father is convinced someone’s out to get me. But there’s insufficient evidence to back up his claim, and police cannot act on suspicion alone. “Do you have an update on the stalker?”
“I've hired a professional, Dylan Knight, as your personal discreet security until the police catch whoever is responsible.”
“A bodyguard? Is that really necessary?”
“I won't risk your safety until the matter is resolved.” He gives a final, decisive nod. “You'll meet Dylan tonight. He'll protect you, regardless of your objections. Have I made myself clear?”
